Thank you Tania and Fiona for a brilliant day out to Moutohora. Not only did we see some great... read more
Thank you Tania and Fiona for a brilliant day out to Moutohora. Not only did we see some great... read more
A great trip all round, very well worth it. Lots of seabirds on the boat ride to the island, as... read more
A very enjoyable day trip from Whakatane. Trip includes: about a 20 min boat trip to the island, a look (from the boat) at a local seal colony on the rocks, a leisure walk over the saddle to the other side of the island (spotting native birds and lizards on the way) for amazing views/photo ops, a walk back to a hot water beach where you can swim, eat lunch, just relax, then (possibly) a boat trip around the island and then head back to shore. The tour guides have the timing down pat so it's a lovely, relaxing day.
A few tips for those that love details: there is car parking available outside the cafe where you check in. They take the biosecurity seriously so everyone has to empty their bags in a special bin while they check them for any predators. This takes a good 30 minutes so make sure to arrive as per their instructions. On the island, you should probably wear more than jandals for the walk over the saddle but you probably don't need full-on hiking boots. I wish I'd worn my Tevas (or similar) that have a bit of grip but can also get wet for when you're on the beach. Note it is a bit of a wet water walk off/on the boat (or at least into wet sand). There are a couple of toilets (long-drop style) near where you arrive and again about halfway through the saddle.
Definitely a great day out!
Fabulous day, great guide, Fiona, pointing out all the bird life and giving comprehensive history of the island. Highly recommend this day trip
Great tour! They were very accommodating when our originally booked time was cancelled due to poor weather: offered us to reschedule or the option of a full redund. Thankfully we were sticking around Whakatane a few more days, so got to do the tour.
It was great! Unforgettable views, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide who patiently answered all of our stupid questions.
We would definitely come back again!
Really loved this tour! Guides were amazing and friendly. Got to see some fantastic wildlife too
The walk was nice and easy most of the way. There is a short steep section but the view from the top is amazing and worth it.
Would recommend this to everyone!
Moutohora Island Sanctuary was a definite on our honeymoon 'to do' list! We started with checking in and receiving a warm welcome from Lisa and signing a quick wavier before descending to 'bio security'.
Moving across the wharf, we were then welcomed by other guests and our friendly guides Fiona, Malia and the skipper David. After a quick check to make sure we won't contaminate the Island Sanctuary we made our way onto the boat to start our quick journey to the island itself. Dolphins were just one of the highlights of our day trip!
Once we embarked to the island, we were quick to be surrounded by the abundance of birdlife that calls this magical place home. The views and 'untouched' nature of the Island made for a special feeling and we soon realised we need to help protect our wildlife.
A massive thank you to the whole team for allowing us just a small glimpse into the past and the future of what could be. Fi and Malia, you guys were awesome and thank you to you both for taking care of us and answering all our question!
Thank you Moutohora Island!
This was a lovely afternoon trip. The guides were very knowledgeable and helpful to those not so able on the walking tracks. The scenery was great. The swim and hot water at the beach was especially memorable for me. Haven't been swimming in the open sea for years. This eighty year old thoroughly enjoyed the trip. I enjoyed meeting overseas visitors too. We went in April 2020
Kia ora hglooney,
Thank you for taking the time to post this review. We're thrilled you enjoyed your tour of Moutohora with us, including the opportunity to swim at Onepu Bay. Ngā mihi.