Urupukapuka Island Bay of Islands
Urupukapuka Island, the largest in the Bay of Islands, offers stunning hikes, pristine beaches, and abundant native wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for hiking & views
Urupukapuka Island Bay of Islands
Best Time
Best for hiking & views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Urupukapuka Island, the largest in the Bay of Islands, offers stunning hikes, pristine beaches, and abundant native wildlife.
"A tranquil haven with spectacular views, pristine waters, and charming sheep – a must-visit!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Tracks range from easy to steep; good hiking shoes are a must for exploring the island's varied terrain.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. There are limited facilities for purchasing drinks on the island.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Hilltop Views
Island summits
Ascend to the hilltops for breathtaking vistas of the Bay of Islands and the surrounding turquoise waters.
Pristine Beaches
Various coves
Relax on secluded, sandy shores with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and unwinding.
Native Birdlife Encounters
Throughout the island
Listen to the songs of Tui and spot agile Fantails and Saddlebacks in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Hiking & Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Tracks range from easy to steep; good hiking shoes are a must for exploring the island's varied terrain.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. There are limited facilities for purchasing drinks on the island.
🐑 Watch for Roaming Sheep
Cute sheep are common sights! Give them space and enjoy their presence as part of the island's charm.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. If on a tour, you might miss out; consider a dedicated day or overnight stay.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Tracks range from easy to steep; good hiking shoes are a must for exploring the island's varied terrain.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes. There are limited facilities for purchasing drinks on the island.
🐑 Watch for Roaming Sheep
Cute sheep are common sights! Give them space and enjoy their presence as part of the island's charm.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. If on a tour, you might miss out; consider a dedicated day or overnight stay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Urupukapuka Island's stunning natural beauty, particularly its panoramic views from the hilltops and its pristine beaches. The opportunity to see native wildlife and enjoy peaceful walks are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some wish for more time to explore its extensive tracks.
"This was one of the stops on our tour of the Bay of Islands. Beautiful island. I wish I had more time to explore it and go for the long walks. When you go to the top of the hills and look down , it's beautiful to watch the boats and the beach. The water is clear and a great place to play."
Hans Karkada
"Go there enjoy the beautiful tracks. See the Saddlebacks! listen to the Tui’s and all the different birds. Enjoy the agile Fantails. Also a nice trip with the very."
John Berrelkamp
"The biggest island located in the bay of the islands. Has accommodation, camping , walking tracks and a big restaurant and bar. There is kayaking and water skiing. Most tours stop here for lunch or go between islands. Recommended to stay 1 or 2 nights or spend the day here. Don’t have time if you’re part of a tour. The walking tracks go between easy to hard and steep. (Need good fitness to do)."
Meth Herath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Urupukapuka Island is accessible primarily by boat. Many Bay of Islands tours include it as a stop, or you can arrange private boat charters, water taxis, or kayaking trips from Paihia or Russell.
No, Urupukapuka Island is a car-free island. Access is exclusively by water.
While there isn't a regular public ferry service, various tour operators offer day trips or hop-on/hop-off services that include Urupukapuka Island. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, experienced kayakers can paddle to Urupukapuka Island from the mainland, but it's a significant journey and weather-dependent. Guided kayak tours are also available.
Once on the island, walking tracks are the primary way to explore. You can also rent kayaks or take part in water sports if available through tour operators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Urupukapuka Island is part of the Department of Conservation (DOC) estate and generally does not have an entrance fee for day visitors. However, tour operators will charge for their services.
If you are part of a scheduled tour, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
As a natural reserve, the island is accessible during daylight hours. Specific facilities like the restaurant may have their own operating times.
Yes, there are camping facilities available on Urupukapuka Island, offering a unique opportunity to stay overnight. Booking is usually required.
Day tours often include boat transport, guided walks, opportunities for swimming, and sometimes lunch at the island's restaurant. Check with your tour provider for specifics.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The island offers a network of tracks. Popular options include the summit tracks for panoramic views and coastal walks. The difficulty varies, so choose based on your fitness level.
Absolutely! The island has beautiful beaches with clear waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Yes, there is a restaurant and bar on the island, often serving as a lunch stop for tours. It's advisable to check its operating hours.
You can encounter native New Zealand birds like Tui and Saddlebacks, as well as agile Fantails. You'll also likely see sheep roaming freely.
Yes, families can enjoy the beaches and easier walking tracks. The wildlife encounters are also a hit with children.
📸 📸 Photography
The hilltops offer stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Islands. The beaches and coves provide beautiful coastal shots, and the native birds offer unique wildlife photography opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
A versatile zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide-angle landscapes and closer shots of wildlife. A macro lens can be great for details if you enjoy that.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Be respectful of any private areas or sensitive wildlife habitats.
Expect to capture stunning coastal scenery, clear blue waters, lush green hills, native birdlife, and charming sheep. It's a photographer's paradise for nature lovers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to see native birds like Tui and Fantails, as well as the freely roaming sheep, is often a highlight for kids. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Consider a shorter, more accessible walking track and dedicate ample time for beach play to ensure a memorable family outing.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by the abundant native birdlife and the opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat. The island's tranquility and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for photography and simply immersing yourself in nature. Don't forget sturdy hiking shoes and plenty of water for your adventures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Urupukapuka Island's Walking Tracks
For those seeking a rewarding challenge, the steeper tracks leading to the summits are highly recommended. The effort is well worth it, providing unforgettable vistas that are perfect for photography and simply soaking in the natural beauty. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as some sections can be uneven or steep. Bringing plenty of water is crucial, especially during warmer months, as facilities on the island are limited.
Many visitors recommend allocating at least half a day to explore the tracks, with some suggesting an overnight stay to truly appreciate the island's tranquility and explore more extensively. Keep an eye out for the island's unique inhabitants – the native birds like Tui and Saddlebacks, and the charming sheep that roam freely, adding to the island's idyllic atmosphere.
Wildlife Encounters on Urupukapuka Island
Another special resident you might encounter is the Saddleback, a striking black and chestnut bird that was once endangered. Its distinctive call is a treat for birdwatchers. The island's conservation efforts have helped these species thrive, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the birds, you'll also find sheep grazing peacefully across the island, adding a pastoral charm to the landscape.
Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them. The natural sounds of the birds and the gentle presence of the sheep contribute significantly to the tranquil and immersive experience of visiting Urupukapuka Island.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit