Best Secret Islands in New Zealand: 12 Places Off the Tourist Trail
Most visitors stick to Queenstown, Rotorua and the Bay of Islands. However, the secret islands New Zealand keeps just offshore offer something different: quiet beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and a slower pace. Many are only a short ferry ride away, and a few feel like the edge of the world. This guide covers twelve of the best.
By “secret”, we mean off the main tourist trail. Some of these islands are well known to locals but overlooked by international visitors. Others are remote enough that few travellers ever reach them. Either way, they are some of the best-kept hidden gems New Zealand has to offer.
How We Chose These Islands in New Zealand
We picked islands that are easy to plan for, rich in nature or history, and far quieter than the big attractions. The list also covers different regions, from the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland to the Chatham Islands far to the east. Where an island has strict rules, such as permits or limited visitor numbers, we have said so.
Hauraki Gulf Islands Near Auckland
The Hauraki Gulf islands are the easiest secret islands to reach, because ferries leave from central Auckland. Our Auckland tours and activities page has more ideas for the city itself.
1. Aotea / Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier is the largest island in the Hauraki Gulf, yet it is only about 90 kilometres from Auckland’s city centre. It still feels a world away, with golden beaches, natural hot pools and thick native forest. Many residents live off the grid and rely on solar power. The island is also free of possums, stoats, weasels and Norway rats, which helps its birdlife. Serious walkers can tackle the three-day Aotea Track, staying in Department of Conservation huts. You can reach the island by ferry from downtown Auckland or by small plane.
Best for: hikers and anyone craving true solitude. See our guide to the best hikes in New Zealand for more trail ideas.
2. Tiritiri Matangi Island
Tiritiri Matangi is an open wildlife sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s great conservation success stories. It has been cleared of introduced predators and planted with more than 300,000 native trees. As a result, you can see endangered species such as takahe, kōkako, bellbirds and stitchbirds. Ferries run from Auckland and Gulf Harbour from Wednesday to Sunday and on most public holidays, so book ahead. Volunteers from the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi lead guided walks to the lighthouse.
Best for: birdwatchers and families. Explore more wildlife and beach experiences on our site.
3. Kawau Island
Kawau Island sits in Kawau Bay, and you reach it by ferry from Sandspit, about an hour’s drive north of Auckland. Its main attraction is the historic Mansion House, which now has a café. Kawau is also a Historic Reserve, so there are walking tracks, quiet bays and plenty of boating. It is a relaxed escape that suits a day trip or a night away.
Best for: history lovers and boaters. Browse our boat cruises and water activities for similar trips.
4. Motuihe Island (Te Motu-a-Ihenga)
Motuihe is one of the less-visited islands in the Hauraki Gulf. It was once the site of a children’s health camp, and today it is a popular spot for picnics and swimming. Tuatara have also been released here as part of restoration work. Dogs are not allowed, so leave pets at home. Bring food and water, and take your rubbish with you when you leave.
Best for: a quiet beach day close to the city.
5. Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto is Auckland’s newest volcano, and its dark cone dominates the skyline. Daily ferries leave from the Downtown Ferry Building. The Summit Track takes about an hour and rewards you with sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city. There are also lava caves to explore, so bring a torch. Note that there is no accommodation on Rangitoto, so plan a day trip.
Best for: volcano walks and photography. Find more volcanic and geothermal attractions across the country.
6. Motutapu Island
A causeway links Motutapu to Rangitoto, so you can combine the two on one trip. Ferries run via Devonport and Rangitoto. Unlike its neighbour, Motutapu has a basic beachside campsite and a lodge, which makes an overnight stay possible. The Motutapu Walkway offers longer walks through farmland and coast.
Best for: campers and walkers who want more than a day trip.
7. Rotoroa Island
Rotoroa has a rich history, beautiful beaches and easy walking trails. You will also find heritage buildings and a small museum, and the island is a ferry ride from Auckland. It makes a gentle alternative to busier islands in the Gulf.
Best for: relaxed day trips with a touch of history.
Secret Islands Near Wellington and the Marlborough Sounds
These two islands are further from the main tourist routes. Explore our Wellington and Wairarapa activities and Marlborough activities to plan the mainland side of your trip.
8. Kapiti Island
Kapiti is a peaceful nature reserve off the west coast of the lower North Island, about 90 minutes north of Wellington. It became a nature reserve in 1897, making it one of New Zealand’s oldest. Access is strictly controlled. You can only visit through an approved tour operator, and daily visitor numbers are capped to protect the island. Boats leave from Paraparaumu. Because spaces are limited, book early in summer.
Best for: birdwatchers who want a protected, predator-free island.
9. D’Urville Island
D’Urville lies off the top of the South Island in the Marlborough Sounds, and it is named after a French explorer. It is a great place to hike, or to paddle a kayak in search of dolphins and seals. Facilities are basic, so plan carefully and bring supplies. The remote setting is a big part of its appeal.
Best for: kayakers and adventurous travellers.
Secret Islands in the Deep South and Beyond
The furthest islands take more effort, but the payoff is wilder scenery and rare wildlife. Our Southland activities page covers the region around Stewart Island.
10. Stewart Island / Rakiura
Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third-largest island, and around 80 per cent of it is national park. It is one of the best places in the country to spot a wild kiwi. The Rakiura Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, and the clear southern skies are ideal for stargazing. You can reach Oban, the main settlement, by ferry from Bluff. The Department of Conservation has more details on visiting Stewart Island / Rakiura. For tours and attractions, see our Stewart Island activities guide.
Best for: hikers, kiwi spotters and stargazers. Learn more about New Zealand’s Great Walks.
11. Ulva Island / Te Wharawhara
Ulva Island sits inside Paterson Inlet and is only a short boat ride from Stewart Island. It covers about 267 hectares and has been predator-free since a successful rat eradication in 1997. As a result, the bush is alive with birds. Well-formed tracks suit all fitness levels, and a short climb leads to a lookout with views back to Stewart Island. Please follow the rules: stay on the paths, do not play bird calls, and do not feed the weka. Drones need a permit.
Best for: an easy, rewarding bird walk. Combine it with Stewart Island for a two- or three-day stay.
12. Chatham Islands (Rēkohu / Wharekauri)
If you want to go truly off the beaten track, the Chatham Islands lie roughly 750 kilometres east of the South Island. The archipelago has about ten islands, but only Chatham and Pitt are inhabited, with around 600 residents between them. The islands are famous as one of the first places in the world to welcome the new year. They are also home to unique wildlife, including the black robin and the taiko. You can fly in from Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington.
Best for: remote-island explorers with time to spare.
Tips for Visiting Secret Islands in New Zealand
Island trips need a little more planning than a normal road trip. Keep these tips in mind:
- Book ferries early. Some services, such as Tiritiri Matangi, do not run every day.
- Check biosecurity rules. Predator-free islands like Tiritiri Matangi, Kapiti and Ulva rely on visitors to keep them pest-free. Check your bags and shoes before you travel.
- Leave your dog at home. Pets are not allowed on several of these islands.
- Pack food, water and a torch. Facilities are limited or absent on many islands.
- Leave no trace. Take all your rubbish with you.
- Check the weather. Sailings can be cancelled in rough seas, so allow a spare day.
Our guides to the best time to visit New Zealand and weather and climate will help you pick the right season. In addition, read our advice on health, medication and safety and travel insurance before you go.
How to Fit These Islands Into Your New Zealand Trip
Several of these islands pair easily with a classic itinerary. For example, you can add a Hauraki Gulf day trip to your first days in Auckland. Our guide on getting from Auckland Airport helps you plan your arrival. Meanwhile, Stewart Island fits naturally at the end of a southern self-drive tour.
Need inspiration? These resources will help:
- New Zealand itinerary ideas
- Best North Island tourist attractions
- Best South Island tourist attractions
- New Zealand national parks
- Best New Zealand beaches
Frequently Asked Questions About Islands in New Zealand
What are the best secret islands in New Zealand?
Great Barrier Island, Tiritiri Matangi, Kapiti Island, Stewart Island and Ulva Island are among the best. Each offers quiet scenery and wildlife away from the main tourist crowds.
Which secret island is closest to Auckland?
Rangitoto and Motuihe are the closest. Ferries leave from downtown Auckland, and the trip is short. Tiritiri Matangi and Great Barrier are further out but still easy to reach.
Do I need a permit to visit Kapiti Island?
Yes. Kapiti can only be visited through an approved tour operator or with a permit, and daily visitor numbers are limited. Book well ahead, especially in summer.
Can I see kiwi in the wild on an island?
Stewart Island is one of the best places in the country to see a wild kiwi. Tiritiri Matangi is also home to kiwi, although you will need patience and ideally a guide.
How do I get to the Chatham Islands?
You can fly from Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington. Flights are limited, so plan early and allow extra days in case of weather delays.
Plan Your Island Escape With Us
The secret islands New Zealand has to offer reward travellers who are willing to go a little further. If you would like help combining them with flights, ferries, accommodation and a wider itinerary, our team can build a trip around your dates and budget. Browse our North Island tours and South Island tours, or request a custom itinerary. You can also explore NZ’s Top 10+ lists or check our frequently asked questions.
