This destination is operated by Explore Group
Fullers360 is pleased to be collaborating with Explore Group to help promote their service to Rotoroa Island, as part of our efforts to enable conscientious travel for visitors with a desire to experience the land, sights and sounds of the Hauraki Gulf.
Rotoroa was closed to the public for more than 100 years as home to NZ’s first addiction treatment centre. Rotoroa maintains historical buildings and exhibitions showcasing the island’s fascinating history. For a truly unique experience, you can stay the night at the island’s boutique hostel or in a vintage holiday home.
Rotoroa Island is nestled among a chain of islets off Waiheke’s east coast. The island is a 75-minute ferry ride from Auckland's Viaduct.
Walking tracks
Take in the island's rugged coastline, sandy beaches and regenerating forest. Visit the seven-metre-high sculpture by New Zealand artist, Chris Booth, on the island’s southern headland. Walk to the North or South Tower for amazing views of the Hauraki Gulf, or go for a short walk to Ladies Bay and relax on the sandy beach with a picnic or BBQ.
Guided walks
Explore Rotoroa Island on a guided walk with a Rotoroa ranger. Your ranger will guide you through regenerating native forest with plenty of wildlife, lookout points and beaches along the way. Learn more about Rotoroa guided walks.
Museum and Exhibition Centre
A state-of-the-art visitor centre and museum showcases the island’s fascinating history from its Māori and early European history through to its many years in private isolation as New Zealand’s first and longest-running addiction treatment centre. See Rotoroa Island Museum and Visitor Centre.
Historical buildings
Get a glimpse into what life on the island used to be like by visiting heritage buildings including a chapel, schoolhouse and jailhouse.
Birdlife
Endangered birds have been introduced onto the island including tīeke, takahē, pāteke, whitehead, saddleback and kiwi. Rotoroa welcomes visitors for special kiwi release events. Find out more about the native birdlife found on Rotoroa Island.
Native forest
Thanks to the efforts of Rotoroa Island Trust and volunteers, the island has gone through a substantial transformation with more than 400,000 native trees and shrubs being planted to help regenerate the island.
Accommodation
Rotoroa Island has three self-contained boutique holiday homes and a backpacker style hostel. All accommodation is renovated and styled in vibrant, vintage decor reminiscent of the island's history. Bookings are essential. Visit the Rotoroa website for more information about Rotoroa Island accommodation and availability.
Check your bags for stowaways such as mice, rats, Argentine ants and Rainbow Skinks to name a few.
Ensure your footwear, clothing and bags are clean and free of soil and seeds.
Your lunch must be packed in a rodent-proof/sealed container e.g. hard plastic.
No open bags or boxes will be allowed onboard. Everything you bring must be sealed or zipped closed.
There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you.
Dogs and fires (including barbeques) are prohibited. Click here to see the Department of Conservation website for more details.
Read more before you visit a pest-free island here.
Hauraki Gulf destinations
Destination
Waiheke Island
For an indulgent culinary experience, Waiheke Island delivers. Taste the fresh local cuisine and sip your way through vineyards. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the coastal walk or cycle trails, or for a breath-taking view of the clifftops, why not try ziplining.
Destination
Rangitoto Island
Sitting majestically off the coast, Rangitoto’s distinctive symmetrical cone rises 260m over the Hauraki Gulf. Climb to the summit for epic views.
Destination
Rotoroa Island
Rotoroa Island is a unique arts, heritage and conservation island. Come and see the endangered species in the wild - and learn about the mission to save them.
Destination
Orapiu
A world away from the western end of the island, visit the east of Waiheke Island for its untouched beauty, picturesque views and mouth-watering vineyards.
Terms and conditions
All travel is subject to the Explore Group's terms and conditions.
