Motuora Island
Motuora camping weekend 28-29 May
Leader is Reuben
A weekend camp on Motuora. Suitable for all levels of experience, including those who have just completed their Kayak Skills Course. It is a 7km paddle from Sullivan's Bay to Motuora. There will be plenty of time to explore the island on foot, or go kiwi hunting at night (take a headtorch with a red light).
Meet at Sullivan’s Bay (Otarawao Bay on Google Earth). Meeting at 9am, launch at 10am. Please leave at least an hour to pack your kayak if you haven't done it before. Assistance will be given with packing your kayak if necessary.
Motuora Island is one of the jewels of the region - stunning scenery; wildlife sanctuary; Still Bay is one of the best beaches anywhere; rocks to explore around the back of the island. One of our favourite places.
Getting there: head north on the motorway, 5km past the tunnel there is a sign to Mahurangi West, turn right and travel for a few km. The road then bends to the left and there is a road which branches off to the right. Take the road to the right and follow it to the beach. This is Sullivan's Bay aka Otarawao Bay on Google Earth.
Bring all your food, camping & cooking gear – there is nothing available on Motuora. There are toilets at Sullivan’s Bay and at the Motuora campground, but only trees elsewhere on Motuora. There is a good water supply on Motuora but it is recommended that you boil for 3 minutes before drinking as it is not treated nor tested. Parking overnight at Sullivan's is restricted to 10 vehicles, so car pool if you can. Otherwise cars could be parked on the roadside up the hill.
Bring your own alcohol, and nibbles to share before dinner. If you would like a recommended camping gear list, it is available from Larraine- larraine.nz@gmail.com
The general plan is to paddle across, which generally takes about 1 hour 15. We can paddle around the island to get to the campsite, so that is another hour or so, and the back of the island is lovely. Then you can get your tent organised, have lunch and go for a walk on the island which is worth doing. Sunday, we can go directly back, or it is very nice to paddle over to Moturekareka, where there are nice caves, and we can have lunch at the wreck before heading back to Sullivan's.
Bookings -
Information on the island, and to book your campsite here...
To book your car parking at Sullivan's Bay overnight go here...
All visitors staying on the island must complete and bring the biosecurity checklist.
If you intend getting anywhere near the rocks, it is recommended that you wear a helmet. They can be hired from C&K North Shore.All visitors staying on the island must complete and bring the biosecurity checklist.
Help to protect the Hauraki Gulf’s ‘Treasure Islands’: Please check your kayak and gear for rats, mice, insects (including Argentine ants) and weed seeds.
To register online, please click here...