Motuotau Island (Rabbit Island)
A picturesque, uninhabited island in the Bay of Plenty, admired from afar for its natural beauty and marine life encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Motuotau Island (Rabbit Island)
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque, uninhabited island in the Bay of Plenty, admired from afar for its natural beauty and marine life encounters. 
"It's very beautiful to look at, but very dangerous to try and go to. "
Admire from Afar
Direct access is difficult; enjoy views from Mount Maunganui or take a boat tour.
Boat Tour Wildlife
Consider a boat trip for closer views and potential orca sightings!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Island Views from Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui Beach
Admire the picturesque Motuotau Island from the sandy shores of Mount Maunganui. A stunning natural backdrop.
Boat Trip Encounters
Offshore
Experience the island's beauty up close on a boat tour, with chances to see marine life like orcas.
Coastal Scenery
Bay of Plenty Coastline
Enjoy the broader coastal beauty of the Bay of Plenty, with Motuotau Island as a scenic element.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Motuotau Island
Best Viewing Spots
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Admire from Afar
Direct access is difficult; enjoy views from Mount Maunganui or take a boat tour.
Boat Tour Wildlife
Consider a boat trip for closer views and potential orca sightings!
Check Tides & Currents
If attempting any water activity, be aware of strong currents and tides.
Tips
from all over the internet
Admire from Afar
Direct access is difficult; enjoy views from Mount Maunganui or take a boat tour.
Boat Tour Wildlife
Consider a boat trip for closer views and potential orca sightings!
Check Tides & Currents
If attempting any water activity, be aware of strong currents and tides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Motuotau Island is primarily admired for its scenic beauty from the mainland and offshore. While beautiful to look at, direct access is considered dangerous due to strong currents. Boat tours offer a safer way to appreciate its proximity and potential for wildlife sightings.
"it's very beautiful to look at, but very dangerous to try and go to. if you are fit and able then go for it"
Michael Head
""
Greg de Laborde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Direct access to Motuotau Island is challenging and not recommended for casual visitors due to strong currents and tides. Most people view it from the mainland beaches of Mount Maunganui or take a boat tour.
Swimming to Motuotau Island is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents and the distance. It's best to admire it from a safe distance or on a guided boat trip.
Yes, boat tours operate in the Bay of Plenty and often pass by Motuotau Island, offering closer views and opportunities for marine life encounters.
The most popular and safest ways to see Motuotau Island are from the beaches of Mount Maunganui or by joining a local boat tour.
Kayaking to Motuotau Island is possible for experienced paddlers aware of the conditions, but it's generally considered risky due to unpredictable currents.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required to view Motuotau Island from the mainland. If you opt for a boat tour, you will need to purchase a ticket from the tour operator.
There is no entrance fee for Motuotau Island itself, as it's a natural reserve. Viewing from public beaches is free.
Motuotau Island can be viewed at any time from the mainland. Boat tours operate on their own schedules, typically during daylight hours.
Landing on Motuotau Island is generally not advised due to its rugged nature and potential hazards. It's primarily an island to be observed from a distance or by boat.
Yes, Motuotau Island is a natural reserve, and visitors are encouraged to respect its environment and wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The beaches of Mount Maunganui offer excellent vantage points for photographing Motuotau Island, especially during sunrise and sunset. Boat tours provide unique angles.
Yes, boat tours near Motuotau Island have reported sightings of orcas and other marine life, offering fantastic photography opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting for photos of Motuotau Island, casting a warm glow on the landscape.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators regarding drone usage in the vicinity of the island and marine reserves.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the island from afar or for wildlife photography on boat tours. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the island within the coastal landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Watchers
The coastal scenery itself is a major draw, offering beautiful views from the mainland. Remember to respect the island as a natural reserve and observe wildlife from a safe distance. For the best photographic opportunities, consider booking a boat tour during daylight hours. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer stunning light for capturing the island and its marine visitors.
Day-Trippers from Mount Maunganui
For a more immersive experience, consider a short boat trip that circles the island, offering different perspectives and a chance to see local marine life. Combine your island viewing with a hike up Mauao (The Mount) for panoramic views of the coastline, including Motuotau Island. This offers a fantastic way to appreciate the entire landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Motuotau Island's Name and Nature
+1The island is a natural reserve, characterized by its rugged terrain and the surrounding marine environment. Its proximity to the mainland makes it a visible landmark, often admired from the popular beaches of Mount Maunganui. The island's natural beauty is a significant draw for visitors, even if direct access is limited.
While the island itself is not a destination for hiking or extensive exploration due to its nature and lack of facilities, it plays a role in the local ecosystem and offers scenic value. Its presence enhances the coastal vistas of the Bay of Plenty region.
Navigating the Waters Around Motuotau Island
For those seeking a closer look, boat tours are the recommended and safest option. These tours are often operated by experienced local guides who understand the marine environment. They provide a way to appreciate the island's scenery and can offer incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of orcas.
When planning any water-based activity in the area, it's crucial to consult with local experts or maritime services. Understanding the tidal patterns and current strengths will ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience, whether you're on a guided tour or simply enjoying the coastal views from a distance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit