From 1911 to 2005 the only people to have access to this blissful little island on the far side of Waiheke were the alcoholics and drug addicts who came (or were sentenced) here to dry out.
About
Trip for a day to explore the island’s beautiful beaches, walking trails, historic buildings and award-winning museum. Admire an outdoor sculpture by renowned New Zealand artist Chris Booth, and get great views over the Hauraki Gulf. The island, also home to restored native plants and a wildlife sanctuary, opened to the public in 2011.
For more than a century, the island was an alcohol rehabilitation center operated by the Salvation Army. You can visit heritage buildings from the center, including the chapel, jail house, and community gardens. Learn how it was New Zealand’s first and longest-running addiction treatment center in a state-of-the-art museum, which also features displays about Rotoroa’s Maori and European history.
Things to do
You can also soak up the outdoors at four sandy beaches, perfect for picnics and swimming. Take a walk along groomed trails to admire a large outdoor sculpture by artist Chris Booth, located on the island’s southern headland. History buffs might carve out some time to see the island’s cemetery, which overlooks the Hauraki Gulf and Ponui Island. And if you like to fish, cast a line from the wharf at Home Bay, or from the boat. As you walk around, note your natural surroundings.
Getting there
Rent the boat in Half Moon Bay, Auckland for the scenic 75-minute trip across the Hauraki Gulf to Rotoroa Island, one of a chain of islets off the east coast of Waiheke. Please regularly monitor the marine forecast to make the most of the best shelter available around the island.
What to bring
- Your own food and plenty of water-there are no shops on the island
- Walking shoes (sturdy footwear), sunblock and a sun hat
- Swimming gear and towels
Other info
- Fires and camping is not permitted on the island, but we do have accommodation available for rent
- No dogs or domestic animals are permitted on the island or its shoreline
Location
Latitude: -36.816776, Longitude: 175.197041
Information: Exposed to Wind SE,S,SW,W,NW
Exposed to Swell: SW
Bottom Type: Mud, Shingle
Draft 0-2m Suitable: Wind Warning
Anchoring Tips: If approaching from the north, there is a passage between Cardinal Beacons and the bay’s western headland. Clear run into bay if coming from Chamberlains Bay to escape a northerly. Good holding in 3-5m over a muddy bottom, approx. 190m off the beach. Some private moorings. Move to Chamberlains Bay when wind from southerly quarter
Services: Toilets, picnic tables & facilities
Features: Private island. Landing permitted at nz$5 per person. Lovely white sand swimming beaches on northeast coast. Nice walks over much of the island. Good bay in a blow from the north
Distance from Half Moon Bay (one way) – 33 km
Duration (one way) – 2h 11 min
Fuel (one way, ~2000 RPM) – 6.6 L
