Visitor Guide 2024 : simplebooklet.com

Aotea has no landfill and no public rubbish bins, but it does have solutionsThe island is on a zero waste mission, what can you do to help?info@anamata.co.nzZERO WASTE ON AOTEA66c Gray Road, ClarisWith Support from Auckland CouncilHelp us protect thisparadise - minimise yourwaste and where possible,take it back with you. OPENING TIMES:Peak Season: (18 Dec - 3 Feb)Mon-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 10am-3pmOff Peak: Wed - Fri 9am-4pm, Sat 10am-3pm. Closed Sundays and public holidays. ANAMATA SHOP & RECYCLING: 66c Gray Road | Phone: 09 4290 654AOTEA TRANSFER STATION: 70 Gray Road | Phone: 09 4290 799ROADSIDE COLLECTION: From 8am Monday for the south (including Claris to the crossroads)From 8am Tuesday for rest of island(Okupu,Whangaparapara and North)ANAMATA REUSE SHOP, RECYCLING& AOTEA TRANSFER STATIONwww.anamata.nzREUSABLE COFFEE CUPS Aotea is going single use cup free. Bring yourown, sit in, purchase or borrow from a localcafé or pottery gallery as a souvenir. WATER REFILL STATIONS Reﬁll your water bottle inside the airport,outside Claris Store, or The Currach Irish pub. COMPOSTING Free community composting is available atMedlands community gardens, Anamata andMulberry Grove school. Also check outwww.sharewaste.org.nzANAMATA Discover the wonders of Anamata CommunityRecycling Centre where you can drop offunwanted items for reuse and recycling. Witha shop onsite which sells household goods,building materials and upcycled crafts andtreasures you can keep yourself entertainedfor hours.BEER REFILL STATIONS We know everyone loves a cold one over thesummer! Aotea Brewing and The Rocks BottleShop run reﬁll stations, to ﬁll up a ﬂagon withfresh, chilled local brew.BULK BINS Stonewall Store and Claris Store have a greatselection of package free bulk bin products.COMMUNITY PANTRIES At Mulberry Grove School, Okiwi School, Anamata and Medlands Community Gardens. Freshproduce and non-perishable food can be lefthere to share.DONATE TO COMMUNITY OPP SHOPS In addition to Anamata, there is St. John’schurch opp shop in Medlands and anotheropposite Mulberry Grove Store. Proceedssupport local causes. Help to protect the Hauraki Gulf - minimise your waste. If possible please take your waste home with you.Council rubbish and recycling bags can be purchased at one ofthe local stores. They can be disposed of at the Claris transferstation and Anamata, or left for roadside collection at allocatedspots as per days above. There are no rubbish collection pointsat the wharves. Your accommodation provider should provide a rubbish bin orcouncil bags for landﬁll rubbish, a yellow crate or clear bag forrecycling and a compost bin for food scraps (check if unsure). DOC campground and hut guests are expected to take theirrubbish away with them to dispose of responsibly. They canpurchase council rubbish and recycling bags locally (check withcamp hosts). Recycling is different here to the mainland. If you want to makesure you get it 100% right, visit: anamata.nz or wastenothing.co.nz.Official rubbish bins/bags, recycling bins/bags and bundled paperand card are placed out for kerbside collection by 8am on aMonday or Tuesday depending upon your location (see below) Checking out on a different day? Check for instructions at youraccommodation or drop your recycling and reusable items toAnamata Aotea Community Recycling Centre and rubbish to thetransfer station in Claris. Opening times can be found below. STAYING ON LANDVISITING BY BOATAOTEA ZERO WASTEROADSIDE RECYCLABLESGLASS, PLASTICS, CANS, TINSPAPER AND CARDBOARDCLEAN SOFT PLASTICSDROP-OFF RECYCLABLESPOLYSTYRENETETRAPAKS BATTERIES, EWASTE, TYRES

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:Haere mai ki AoteaNgāti Rehua Ngātiwai Ki AoteaEvents Finding the Joy in missing out on AoteaMapGetting your bearingsOur Dark Sky SanctuaryGetting Around Eat & DrinkBuying Local Growers & MakersHealth & Wellbeing ExperiencesArts & Heritage TrailBeachesWalking- Huts & Campgrounds- Short WalksPlanning a tripEcology & ConservationBoat InformationAccommodation Getting Here34456789111214151617192021222324272830HAERE MAI KI AOTEA- Visitor Information www.greatbarrier.co.nz info@dgbi.co.nzFB: /aoteagreatbarrierislandIG: @greatbarrierislandocialReduce, reuse or recycle this guide. Pass to a friend, leave at your accommodation or keep it as a souvenir. Printed using a carbon neutral printer on FSC certiﬁed paper. Welcome to the shores of our beautiful motu (island), Aotea. Also known as Great Barrier Island, this is the ancestral land of Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea. As tangata whenua they hold the mana whenua and mana moana of Aotea, Hauturu-a-toi, Pokohinu, Rakitū; Rangiahua and other outlying islands, rocky outcrops and seascapes. On approach, the island can appear austere and empty, but as you explore the depths of its whenua (land), moana (sea) and rangi-nui (skies), you’ll undoubtedly discover the charm that lies within. We are a short trip from Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, but truly a world away. The community is proud of our Māori and European heritage, dark sky sanctuary, o grid way of life and internationally signiﬁcant biodiversity. Around 1,200 mindful, creative, eccentric and resourceful people live here. You’ll ﬁnd evidence of these traits in the conversations you have with them, in their art work in our galleries, and in the wide variety of accommodation and local experiences on oer.Our incredible empty beaches and diverse landscapes teem with protected indigenous taonga species, many unique to Aotea and its surrounding islands. Keep an eye out for them.Every household and business on our island is o grid, generating their own power, harvesting their own water and managing their own waste. Aotea endeavours to be a sustainable destination, but we need visitors to embrace this journey with us. There are tips throughout this guide on how you can take action to be a mindful and sustainable visitor.In line with Aotearoa’s Tiaki promise - which asks all of us to care for people and place - we ask visitors to be responsible, tread lightly, leave no trace and take their time to enjoy our island.Through kaitiakitanga (guardianshop/protection) and guided by mana whenua, we care for our motu, the moana that surrounds it and for our people. Through manaakitanga (kindness and respect for others) warmly welcome you. Aotea’s permanent residents feel absolutely privileged to live here. We trust you’ll feel the same during your stay. Nau mai haere mai ki Aotea!© 1. sarahkmatthew.co.nz. 2. Sarah Harrison. 3. Lotte McIntyre. 4. Hilde Hoven. VISITOR GUIDE | 3

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Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki AoteaKo Aotea te moutere rongonuiKo Hirakimatā te maunga tapuKo Te Moana Nui o Toi te Huatahi te moanaKo te Tuatara, te Mauri, rātou ko Tukaiaia ngā kaitiakiKo Aotea te kāinga o ngā uri o Ngāti RehuaĀnei te whenua e manaakitia tātou. E whakapiritia tātou. E whakaoratia tātou.Te wāhi o ngā taonga maha, ngā taonga tapu, ngā taonga matahīapo.Nā ngā whetū i kanapu i te rangi ki ngā aitenga a punga e kōhimuhimu ana ki ngā ngahere.Ko Aotea te taonga motuhake o Te Moana Nui o Toi te Huatahi. Ko Aotea tōku tūrangawaewae.Ngā ManaakitangaNgāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea Ngāti Rehua holds the ancestral connection and authority to the islands of Aotea, Hauturu, and the Mokohinau Islands. They possess exclusive ownership and rights over the land, smaller islands, and signiﬁcant rock formations. The wider ancestral domain of Ngāti Rehua encompasses the outer gulf islands, highlighting their deep-rooted ancestral ties to these islands. They assert their traditional ownership rights, interests, and obligations, including mana whenua, mana moana, rangatiratanga and kaitiakitanga, over Aotea and the Mokohinau Islands. These rights are shared with others in Hauturu, signifying a collective responsibility for the protection and preservation of these natural and cultural resources. Ngāti Rehua’s mana and connection to these lands and seas have existed both before and ater the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, arming their enduring ancestral connection to these islands.The pepeha and kaitiaki (guardian) images are from Ngāti Rehua-Ngatiwai Ki Aotea.EVENTS Visit: www.greatbarrier.co.nz/eventsSpectacular by Nature Garden Tour End of November New Years Picnic Start of JanuaryThe Wingman Festival January - every other year. Small Island Big Ideas smallislandbigideas.co.nzStonewall, Growers & Makers and other marketsKeep an eye on notice boards!Gallery Exhibitions & Workshops www.aoteaartsandhistoryvillage.nz

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There are some things you won’t ﬁnd on Aotea, but we have some humble alternatives. And hey, you came here on holiday to step away from your daily norms and appreciate the simple pleasures in life, right?No Mains power... Aotea is o the grid, with most homes and businesses running o solar power stored in batteries. You’ll learn to carry out daily tasks alongside the sun. A reminder to leave your power hungry hair dryers, straighteners, toasters and coee machines at home.No Mains water... Water is rain or stream collected and stored in tanks here. So challenge yourself to enjoy quick showers especially in the summer months. You’ll ﬁnd drinking water reﬁll stations around the island - see page 7. No Public Rubbish bins...  Aotea’s has a zero waste to landﬁll by 2040 mission. Find out how to deal with your waste on the inside front cover. No Single- -use cups... Don’t panic, there are plenty of ways you can still enjoy your takeaway caeine ﬁx. Bring your keep cup, buy one here, sit in or borrow a mug from our cafs mug libraries. No Large supermarkets... You’ll be surprised by the selection of goods in our small local shops. They have a miraculous ability to keep their shelves stocked even when the freight ferry doesn’t come in. And if there isn't bread on the shelves, there are always wraps!No Malls... You’ll ﬁnd many quirky galleries and mini markets with creations and produce from our local makers and growers. See page 17 for our arts and heritage trail. No Public transport or Taxis...You’ll ﬁnd shuttle drivers and a Monday to Saturday People and Post service from Tryphena to Port FitzRoy. Find more info about transport on page 9. No Banks...You’ll ﬁnd EFTPOS facilities in most places but not always credit card facilities.NO Streetlights... This is one of the many reasons we are a Dark Sky Sanctuary. Bring a torch if you intend to go out on foot at night.No Footpaths... Our roads are shared between walkers, cyclists and vehices, so be careful no matter which mode of transport you’re using. Drivers stick to the let, especially around corners, and if you want to cruise around slowly, be sure to pull over and allow more fast-paced locals to pass. No Large tours... You’ll ﬁnd small personalised experiences with Norm (Explore Great Barrier), Leigh (Sunset Lodge) Chris & William (Hooked on Barrier), Benny & Russell (Star Treks), Deb & Hilde (Good Heavens) and many others!NO Zoos...You’ll ﬁnd many taonga (treasures) that are rarer and more ecologically signiﬁcant than what you’ll see in a zoo. (Look out for kākā, takoketai, banded rails, dotterels, chevron skinks... and learn about what we are doing to protect them, on page 24).NO Fun parks or adrenaline rides... Instead, we have waves, natural lazy rivers (if you pick your tides right), epic trees to climb, rope swings and the odd wharf to manu from. Same but dierent. NO Surf lifeguards...Stay safe around the ocean as there is no one watching and many of our beaches are wonderfully empty. Watch out for rip currents, swim with a buddy and stay within your limits. Find the joy in 'missing out'VISITOR GUIDE | 5

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Orama -Glenfern - Regional Park -Water refill station:Getting your bearingsTRYPHENA. --The -busy- southThe ﬁrst port of call for visitors traveling by ferry. From the wharf, a winding road hugs the coast and opens up to many lookouts from where you can spot dolphins, whales and schools of ﬁsh. This largest settlement on the island is home to two grocery stores, a post shop, a fuel station, two cafes, a pub, a social club and artist studios. There’s safe swimming on Pa Beach, Gooseberry Flat and Mulberry Grove beaches and several 1-4 hour walks up Cape Barrier Road.Claris-. The services hub----Housing the island’s public services: aerodrome, police station, Auckland Council service centre and library, mechanics, medical centre, fuel station, bottle shop, local sports club, golf club, cafe, burger bar, lunch bar, two museums and the community art gallery. It’s the place to stock up on essentials (in Claris) if you are hitting the tracks or beaches in the north of the island. The next store and fuel stop is in Port FitzRoy! Okupu. - Family picnic spot-Heading east, winding Blind Bay road takes you past te Ahumata track and brings you to sheltered, giant Pohutukawa-lined Blind Bay, a magical place for a family picnic, dolphin spotting and beach time. Stop o at Iona Mine on the way down or head around the coast to scenic Blind Bay wharf. Whangaparapara. - Remnants of big industryOnce bustling with industry and now a sleepy harbour, this is the perfect place to explore for a day. Find remains of a whaling station and remnants of an old timber mill from kauri logging days as well as a history exhibition in the wharf shed. Whangaparapara is the perfect place for a day hike or to commence the Aotea Track. Spot the stamper battery from gold and silver mining days, close to the car park for the renowned Kaitoke Hot Springs. Port FitzRoy. - Boaties paradiseThe largest natural harbour in the Hauraki Gulf is a boaties paradise and a great starting point for the Aotea Track. Port FitzRoy is a good stop for supplies while boating, to discover secluded bays, or to visit Glenfern Sanctuary - an 83 hectare regional park. General StoresMulberry Grove -TryphenaStonewall Village -TryphenaClaris Store Port FitzRoy StoreFuelMulberry Grove - TryphenaWhangaparapara WharfClaris Centre Port FitzRoy Wharf Medical Claris Health Centre Port FitzRoy Nurses Cottage St John Ambulance (111)Free wi-fiClaris AirportClaris StoreCouncil service centre (Claris) Barrier Social Club (Tryphena)Tryphena HallVery Useful numbers Barrier Air 0800 900 600Island Aviation (Waiheke Wings/Auckland Seaplanes) 09 390 1122Sunair 0800 786 247SeaLink (www.sealink.co.nz/sign-up-for-text-alerts) 0800 732 546 Dept of Conservation 0800 DOC HOT Aotea Health - 24/7 Acute Emergency 09 4290 356 Emergency: Ambulance, Fire, Police, Coastguard 111Local ServicesAuckland Council 09 4290 258Pharmacy 09 4290 006Barrier Automotive 09 4290 830 Aotea Gas (LPG) 09 4290 968Claris Tyres 09 4290 885More useful numbers Local Police 09 4290 343Port FitzRoy Nurses Cottage 09 4290 047Okiwi DOC Oce 09 4290 044LaundromatClaris CentreSunset Lodge (Tryphena)Drinking Water StationsInside Claris AirportOutside Claris StoreOutside The Currach Irish PubWATER REFILL STATION MAP-VISITOR GUIDE | 7

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Our dark skiesCome stargazing with us!www.goodheavens.co.nzAotea Great Barrier Island is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. This means that our island’s night sky is among the darkest and best in the world.With half the world’s population now living in cities, many urban dwellers have never experienced the wonderment of pristine dark skies. Light pollution--- effects-..,..OUR POWER. While advances in solar have made many of us power-rich on the Barrier, we still love living within our means and turning lights o when not needed. Please join us in our eorts, especially when it comes to outdoor lighting. OUR HEALTH. Studies suggest that artiﬁcial light at night negatively aects human health by increasing the risk of obesity, sleep disorders, depression, diabetes, breast cancer, and more. Grab your chance on Aotea to follow your circadian rhythm, and rise and set with the sun! OUR HERITAGE. Our ancestors experienced a night sky that inspired science, religion, philosophy, art, and literature. Now, millions of children across the globe will never know the wonder of the Milky May. On Aotea, the joy of looking up and getting lost in the stars is protected. Grab your chance to become familiar with some to the treasures of the night sky while you're here.OUR WILDLIFE. Plants and animals depend on earth's cycle of light and dark. On Aotea, many endangered sea birds, such as black petrels, are burrow-breeding. They return to their colonies at night, using the moon and the stars as guides. Light pollution can disorient them, making them lose their way, or stopping them, (especially ﬂedglings), from taking o. You know the saying ‘like a moth to a ﬂame’? Artiﬁcial lighting is detrimental to many insect populations as well. Even one light can act like a vacuum, aecting their nighttime activity. And then there’s the pekapeka or long-tailed bat. Artiﬁcial lights disrupt their navigation, feeding and roosting. Bats hunt the insects that are attracted by artiﬁcial light, which exposes them to predators. Bright lights can cause bats to abandon their roosts and change course, sometimes cutting them o from food and water sources. HELP OUT -aND GET INVOLVED  Avoid outdoor lighting within 3 km of sea bird breeding colonies, especially during nesting/ﬂedging periods.  If lights are needed, choose low-intensity amber/red lighting.  Point lights downward and away from breeding colonies.  Use timers, sensors and dimmers to keep light use to a minimum.  Use curtains to avoid indoor lights attracting seabirds. Or just go to bed!  Avoid lighting near waterways, as these are a key source of insect prey for bats.Other ways to get involved with a dark sky environment here or at home:  Globeatnight.org  Astrophotography – Capture the dark, a yearly photography contest  Make a donation to the international Dark sky Association: www.darksky.org/ways-to-give  Enjoy a Stargazing Experience with the Good Heavens Team or a twilight experience with the Startreks team.

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Car RentalsAirport Rentals (Neal) 09 4290 417Aotea Car Rentals (Sue) 09 4290 474 or 0800 426 832Claris Rental Cars (Orla) 021 1741 537Aotea Lodge (Fiona) 027 909 1462GO Great Barrier - transport services, rental cars, custom & group tours (Steve & Leebee) 0800 997 222 Medlands Rentals (Skilly) 09 4290 861North Barrier Rentals (Je) 09 4290 848Shoal Bay Rentals (Val) 09 4290 543 or 0274 774 018Stray Possum Lodge Rentals (Kev) 09 4290 109Stay High Island Camping Co 022 3760 629Passenger Transport Norm & Fleur (Explore Great Barrier) 021 636 398Fiona’s Shuttles 027 909 1462GO Great Barrier - transport services, rental cars, custom tours (Steve & Leebee) 0800 997 222 People & Post | Shuttle/transfer service (Great Barrier Travel) (Sue) 09 4290 474 or 0800 426 832 Skilly (Medland’s Rentals) 09 4290 861Mike Newman (based in Port FitzRoy) 021 876 296Debbie (Pick Me Up Shuttles) 02PICKMEUPKevin (Stray Possum Lodge) 09 4290 109TWO WHEELSMotubikes 022 344 0645Bikes for Hire - Pharmacy 09 4290 006To get the most from your trip, we highly recommend booking a car, electric motubike or shuttle transfers in advance. There is no public transport on the island, so for hikers or boaties wanting to transfer between the north and south of the island People & Post run a service, Monday - Saturday from Tryphena to Port FitzRoy. See service details and how to book to the right. The island is deceptively big: it takes around an hour to get from Tryphena wharf to Port FitzRoy wharf.TRYPHENA - PORT FITZROY, DEPARTS - 10AMPORT FITZROY - TRYPHENA, DEPARTS - 11AMNNOORRTTHH TTOO SSOOUUTTHH SSHHUUTTTTLLEE SSEERRVVIICCEEP&PP&PPeople & Post OPERATING MONDAY - SATURDAY$30 ppPORT FITZROYTryphena0800 426 832gbbuses@xtra.co.nzFREE TO AOTEA CARRENTAL CUSTOMERSLOCAL TIP: Hitch hiking - is safe, common and a great way to get to know locals on the island. Walking - our roads are shared, so beware of trac especially in the peak summer months. 09 429 0897 or 021 636398 normw55@gmail.comDROP OFF, PICKUPPICNIC TOURSTRANSPORTATIONAOTEA GREAT BARRIEREXPLORECars from $70/dayAirport and Wharf drop oCall Orla: 021 174 1537clarisrentalcars@gmail.comGetting aroundVISITOR GUIDE | 9

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IN THE SOUTH. TryphenaBarrier Social Club. À la carte & blackboard menu. Bar and takeaways. Monday movie nights. WiFi 09 4290 421Currach Irish Pub. Bookings essential to avoid disappointment. A la carte & woodﬁred pizza oven. Music. Licensed. WiFi 09 4290 211 Mulberry Grove Café & Takeaway. 09 4290 909 Open 7 days. Meals, takeaways, breakfasts available from 8am. Coee bar, bottle shop. Open til 7pm.Pa Beach Café. Delicious cabinet food, great coee, breakfast and lunch options. Cafe right by the beach! 021 0248 2877 IN THE MIDDLE. ClarisGBI Sports & Social Club, Whangaparapara Road. Club bistro, à la carte menu and takeaways. Licensed. 09 4290 260Golf Club, Whangaparapara Road. Delicious meals, great steaks and cold drinks. Dinner bookings recommended. 09 4290 420My Fat Puku Café, Claris. Fresh food, fabulous organic coee, garden setting. 09 4290 811The Burga Shak. Gourmet, burgers, wraps, salads, fries, seafood, hot and cold drinks. 09 4290 226Baked on Barrier, Claris. Lunch bar, hot & cold food, sweet & savoury. Fresh daily. 09 4290 800Aotea Brewing, Mason Rd - Medlands. Fresh local beer reﬁll station, events through summer. Visit: aoteabrewing.co.nzTo the WEST. WhangaparaparaWine Dine at Great Barrier Lodge, Whangaparapara. Brunch, Lunch, Dinner on selected days. Bookings Essential. Email: restaurant@greatbarrierlodge.co.nz 021 058 1111From cafés serving delicious brunches and organic coee, to waterfront dining, woodﬁred pizzas and mouth watering gourmet takeaway burgers, the island has lots of delicious bites on oer. We recommend heading to our sports and social clubs for dinner, and getting to know the locals - everyone is welcome. ‘“Club night” is Wednesday night at both Tryphena and Claris clubs (they open at 4pm) and both are also open on Friday and Saturdays for drinks and food. The golf club is open to visitors, Thursdays and Sundays from 5pm. When venturing to the north of the island, if a full sit down lunch or dinner is important to you, we recommend eating in Claris before you head o. However, the Port FitzRoy store has a great selection of cold drinks, a coee machine, snacks, pies, sandwiches and slices. Eat -AND DrinkCOME JOIN US FOR COFFEE & PIZZA NIGHTS!Licensed Cafe, Beer & Kombucha brewed onsite, available on tap. Organic coffee & home bakingOpen 7 days129 Hector Sanderson Rd | www.myfatpuku.co.nz | 09 4290 811LOcal Tip--: Opening times vary so please do call ahead or check online. Call ahead and book in advance, over summer and winter. • Lunch Bar• Hot & Cold• Sweet & Savoury • Fresh dailyOpen week days7am-2pm25 Hector Sanderson Rd09 4290 800BARRIER SOCIAL CLUBEveryone Welcome. Friendly atmosphereLocal beer & more on tap Fresh mealsLocally sourced ingredients Opens at 4pm until late on:Wednesday Friday Saturday 21 Medland Road, Tryphena - 09 4290 421Monday movie night with Island ScreensOpen 5pm, Kitchen 6pm, Movie starts 7.15pmTo see what’s on: facebook.com/gbiislandscreensVISITOR GUIDE | 11

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Great Barrier IslandSports & Social ClubFull bar facilities – delicious meals at the Club Bistro– Conference facilities – Pool tables – Tennis courts – Sports ﬁeldGreat Barrier IslandWhangaparapara Rd, Claris. Open Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. Email: clarisclub@xtra.co.nz Ph: 4290 260South-Barrier Building Supplies (ITM). Open Mon-Sat 09 4290 466 Mulberry Grove Store & Bottle Store. Open 7 days 09 4290 909Outpost Git Shop 09 4290 610Stonewall Store & Bottle Store. Open 7 days 09 4290 451North-Port FitzRoy General Store & Bottle Shop 09 4290 056Central-Claris General Store Open 7 days 09 4290 852Great Barrier Pharmacy 09 4290 006Pigeon Post Open Mon - Fri (Sat in summer) 09 4290 242The Rocks Bottle Store 09 4290 118Island Gin Distillery 09 4290 690 Aotea Brewing aoteabrewing.co.nz Port FitzRoy StoreFull range of Groceries,Fruit and VegetablesPhone 4290 056Wines, Spirits, Beer, Bait, Ice, Fishing Gear, LPG Fills>Beer,wine,spirits,ice,snacks>Local breweries rellery station>Stockists of Island GinWholesale prices for group functionsOpen 7 daystherocks@xtra.co.nzwww.therocksaotea.co.nz09 4290 118Our stores across the island have a wide range of groceries, so you shouldn’t need to bring much with you. Things are a little pricier than on the mainland, but bear in mind that includes cost of freight. Our shopkeepers work hard to keep their shelves stocked with a great product range and where possible they use local suppliers. We encourage our visitors to shop local, to support local jobs and our small island economy. Both Stonewall store and Claris stores have bulk bins of essentials like rice, other grains, nuts, ﬂour, dried fruit and lollies. Stonewall in Tryphena has a particularly good range of organic groceries and products for those with dietary requirements. CLARIS STOREStocking all the essentials, including locally sourced produce, fresh fruit, veg and organic options.Open | Mon to Fri 8:30am-5pm | Sat & Sun 9am-4pmExtended hours over summer09 4290 852 | info@clarisstoreaotea.nzLocal Tip--: You can help reduce your waste by buying local and using low packaging options, like bulk bins and reﬁll options. Also, keep an eye out for local markets and stalls. Pigeon PostCLARISPostal Services | Gifts | Crafts Souvenirs | Stationery | ToysPh/Fax: 09 4290 242Established 1897Great Barrier IslandSports & Social ClubFull bar facilities – delicious meals at the Club Bistro– Conference facilities – Pool tables – Tennis courts – Sports ﬁeldGreat Barrier IslandWhangaparapara Rd, Claris. Open Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. Email: clarisclub@xtra.co.nz Ph: 4290 260Eat -AND Drink

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CAFE/RESTAURANT - OPEN 7 DAYSTAKEAWAYS BY THE SEASIDEAUTHENTIC THAI CUISINEAWARD-WINNING GOURMET PIESGREAT LOCATION - FABULOUS VIEWSGROCERIESFRESH FRUIT AND VEGFULL TAVERN & OFF LICENSEINDOOR/OUTDOOR SEATINGBOTTLE STORE EXTENSIVE WINE COLLECTIONICE, FISHING GEAR, BAITGT BARRIER ISLAND HONEYGIFTS AND SOUVENIRS FUEL - PETROL AND DIESELGARDEN SUPPLIESMulberry Grove General Store EST 19741 MULBERRY GROVE ROAD, GREAT BARRIER ISLAND PHONE 09 4290 909WWW.MULBERRYGROVESTORE.NZ OPEN 7 DAYS 7AM-7PM (LATER BOOKINGS WELCOME) Fresh, local craft beerCheck out current openinghours on our website50a Mason Road, Medlands - aoteabrewing.co.nz - @aoteabrewingCome and visit Aotea’s solar powered craft brewery inMedlands. We are making a range of delicious craft beeron island.There’s no single use packaging here, you can sampleand takeaway fresh beer poured straight from the keg,so bring a bottle of your own or buy one of our awesomeflagons to use again and again. VISITOR GUIDE | 13

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Look out for local produce and products during your stay. You’ll ﬁnd fresh, locally-grown fruit and vegetables, including the island famous Gray’s potatoes grown on the rolling hills overlooking Palmer’s beach. We think the quality and ﬂavour is due to their happiness - those spuds do, ater all, look out over one of the most incredible views in Aotearoa. Darren Gray regularly has a stand at the arts village in Claris, and is at most island markets. Aotea is also home to the southern hemisphere’s most remote, award winning, boutique gin distillery - Island Gin, zero-waste solar-powered microbreweries - Aotea Brewing and Barrier Brew and small-batch coee roastery ‘Aotea Roast’. There is also an abundance of quality manuka and bush honey products produced here, including Aotea Made botanicals, which are now the star of Air New Zealand’s business and premium economy amenity kits. All our island-made beauty products can be found in Barrier stores and eateries. Be sure to indulge in these local goodies on your trip. Available at shops on the islandand online: greatbarrierislandbeeco.co.nzMANUKA HONEYBODY CARE SUN PROTECTIONCaity and Gerald, Endterprising Gardeners, info@okiwipassion.co.nz (G) 0220 748545 (C) 021 212 7153Local, Freshly Harvested and Naturally Grown Fruit · Herbs · Sensational Saladwww.okiwipassion.co.nzGROWERS -and MAKERS

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Trike ToursIf there’s one thing Aotea does exceptionally, it’s oeringpeople the chance to step back from their fast-paceddaily lives and focus on their health and wellbeing. Thereare a few local enterprises with oerings in this space.Therapeutic ProductsThere are several local producers harnessing the healingand therapeutic capabilities of plant-derived ingredients.One example is Te Ao Haurongo, a local team combiningwestern herbalism with māori rongoā to produce arange of medicinal hydrosols and balms. Everything isproduced according to tikanga, including working withte maramataka, the māori lunar calendar, to harvest inseason with the moon phases.The honey industry here produces beeswax as a by-product, and this resource is used by many producers ofnatural beauty products. You’ll ﬁnd medicinal balms andremedies, soaps, moisturisers, facial oils and synergyblends - something for every stage of your regime.These beauty and health products are available from theshops, galleries and regular markets. They make beautifulgits and can be a great daily reminder of your break onAotea.YOGAAotea has likely got the highest number of qualiﬁedyoga teachers per capita in the world!* Lucky for thecommunity and you, these yoginis are so zen that thereis no marking of territories; instead they’ve formed ateaching collective. The ‘Aotea Yoga Collective’ runsregular classes throughout the week, there’s somethingfor everyone. You can ﬁnd their updated timetable onFacebook or on notice boards around the island.(*Don’t quote us on that)NATURE BATHINGAotea is home to renowned Nature Bathing trainer andguide, Vicky Kyan. She oers nature-based ecotherapiesfor your total rest and relaxation, including foresttherapy/Shinrin-yoku style guided walks. If strolling alongour empty beaches and bush isn’t enough for you, Vicky’sexperience paves the way for a deeper connection withyour surroundings.MASSAGEThen of course, there's massage. We have severalmassage therapists on island oering treatments acrossa range of modalities. Florence Therapies owner, Abigailprovides remedial sports and relaxation massages andAotea Holistic Massage specialises in Lymphoedematherapy amongst other techniques. See a full list on page16.A therapeutic range of small-batch skincaremade right here on Aotea, Great Barrier Islandwww.kaitokewilds.nz / In stores throughout AoteaGuided by Vicky Kyan(ANFT cert. guide and trainer)www.naturebathing.nz|+64 9 4290 129 | +64 27 383 8300|Nature Bathing Experiences.Gentle guided WellbeingWanders and activities thatsupport health and natureconnection.Health And -wellbeingVISITOR GUIDE | 15

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Here is a go-to list of activities and experiences on the island. There’s an activity for everyone. All our operators are small local businesses who oer authentic and personal experiences.ExperiencesArts -and Heritage Points of Interest The full Arts & Heritage trail can be found on page 17 Dark Sky Sanctuary ExperiencesGood Heavens – Stargazing experiences 027 4290 877Carol Comer - Astrophotography Adventures 027 767 0071 Star Treks - Dark Sky Adventures 027 387 795DivingPort FitzRoy Dive Station For ﬁlls, hire, tests, batteries 021 0829 3887Hooked on Barrier, Claris 021 0276 2332Electric MotorbikesMotuBikes 022 344 0645 Fishing Charters- and Coastal ToursHooked on Barrier, Claris 021 0276 2332Hauraki Express (Water taxi & ﬁshing) 027 664 6644GolfGreat Barrier Island Golf Club. 9 holes. Clubhouse open Thurs & Sun 10am-6pm. Clubs available every day from “The Rocks” Claris. Ph: 09 4290 118. Green Fee $25, Club Hire $5 Summer. Boxing Day to end February, Saturdays to 8pm. Whangaparapara Rd, Claris 09 4290 420Kayaking Great Barrier Lodge, Whangaparapara 09 4290 488Shoal Bay Estate, Tryphena 09 4290 543Aquahut, Sunset Lodge, Tryphena 09 4290 051Movie NightsIsland Screens. Barrier Social Club. Mondays 09 4290 421Outdoor Educational ProgrammesHillary Outdoors, Port FitzRoy. 09 4290 762PhotographersSarah Matthew sarahkmatthew.co.nzCarol Comer - Bare Photography carolcomer.nzPaddleboarding Aquahut, Sunset Lodge, Tryphena 09 4290 051 Surfboard Hire Salty Bushman Surboard Hire 027 255 3773 Tours -ON LandCrazyhorse Trike Tours 0800 997 222 or 09 4290 222 Go Great Barrier 0800 997 222 or 09 4290 222Explore Great Barrier 021 636 398Great Barrier Travel 09 4290 474Great Barrier Active Honey Tours 027 350 4444Star Treks - Guided Motubike Tour 027 387 7950Walking Check out page 20 and collect a DOC track map from the airportGlenfern Sanctuary - Regional Park. Guided and Unguided walks. Port FitzRoy 09 4290 091Star Treks - Locally guided walks 027 387 7950Walking Legends - Guided walking holidays 0800 WALK NZWater TaxiHauraki Express from AKL 027 664 664Wellbeing, Massage -AND Yoga Aotea Holistic Therapy 09 4290 968 WaiOra Wellbeing Wanders 027 383 8300Aotea Yoga Collective FB: Aotea Yoga CollectiveFlorence Therapies (Massage) 020 4146 7056Sea and Stone Body Therapy 020 4139 6813To download maps with the locations of all these experiences and local tips, head to: www.greatbarrier.co.nz/mapsLOCAL TIP Book experiences ahead and check the weather. If in doubt ask the operator or a local.

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Follow our art trail and enjoy the variety of work on offer, chat to artists and discover how Aotea inspires their work. Buy local, purchase a piece of Aotea, a long lasting connection to the island and its people.1Starting near Tryphena wharf, pop into Shoal Bay Pottery (09 4290 455). There are plenty of creative projects to admire in the garden of this talented and friendly potter too.2Another friendly face can be found at the Elephant Gallery in Puriri Bay (027 961 4315), where Marion has an excellent array of stunning work and hand crafted items from local artists.3Continue on to the Black Cow Gallery in Schooner Bay which showcases work by Peter Edmonds and Fenella Christian. The door is open 24/7 and an honesty box offers buyers easy access to some of the quirkiest art on island.4In Claris, you’ll ﬁnd the Milk, Honey and Grain Museum (09 4290 773) 200m south of the Airport. A tiny museum full to the brim of the island’s rich early settler history.5Just down the road is Aotea Arts and History Village (09 4290 580). The gallery and gift shop provide exhibition and retail space for a wide variety of arts and crafts from local artist, while the museum and History Hut offer some fascinating and in depth information about the history of the island and its residents.6In Okupu you will ﬁnd Monique Endt (027 4121 652) in her studio gallery over the summer months. Look out for the sign at the Okupu/Gray Rd intersection.7Tucked away at 23 Moana View Road in Okupu you will ﬁnd Janene Hunsdale's wee gallery Hooked on Aotea, featuring her unique crochet art and other offerings. Open w/ends 10am-3pm. (except market days) or contact via her Hooked on Aotea Facebook page for special openings.8Just north of Claris we present to you Anamata Reuse Shop on Gray Rd (09 4290 654). Anamata is not your typical gallery, here the crafty team turn trash into treasure, helping the island reduce waste to landﬁll. Call in, you never know what you might ﬁnd. 9Further north, just past Port Fitzroy you will ﬁnd Studio 194, 194 Kaiaraara Bay Road. Filled with collectables, hand made crafts, recycled and preloved treasures. Open most days however ph 021 1706 693 if making a special trip.Last but not least you will ﬁnd the Orama Woolshed Art Studio in Karaka Bay. A space to create. Bring your own project on10Friday mornings or join a workshop. To see what’s on visit www.orama.nz/creative-spaces. VISITOR GUIDE | 17

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Group accommodationSleeps up to 16Waterfront Location.Outdoor Heated Baths.Watersports Gear.www.tryphenahouse.co.nzSpend a day golﬁng, socialising, sharing a drink or delicious meal. • 9-hole course• Club house open - Thursday & Sunday from 11am• Meals for members and guests from 5pmClubs available from the Rocks in Claris. Green fee $25. Club hire $5. Located on Whangaparapara RoadPh: 09 4290 420LOCALLY GUIDED DAY TREKS & TWILIGHT ADVENTURESGREAT BARRIER ISLAND, NEW ZEALANDl o c a l g u i d e sBe entertained by our island’s past and present, characters and stories. Learn about New Zealand ora and fauna. Our guides are enthusiastic locals living off-grid on this remote island.tours Star Treks offer memorable guided journeys. Choose from our thoughtfully crafted daylight or twilight treks.contact us to create your next adventure!WWW.STARTREKS.KIWI PH +64 27 387 7950 EMAIL: INFO@STARTREKS.KIWI FACEBOOK/INSTAGRAM: @STAR TREKSdiscoverExperience the essence of Great Barrier Island. Tranquil forests, beaches and expansive ocean views. As night falls, encounter our protected starry night skies.Medlands Beach BackpackersMedlands beach is renowned for its surfing beach breaks, swimming, diving and fishing. Experience beautiful bush walks to mountain top views, hot thermal springs, rare and endangered flora and fauna, or simply sit back, relax in our garden areas. www.medlandsbeach.cominfo@medlandsbeach.com

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The beaches on Aotea range from sweeping expanses of pristine surf on the east coast, to sheltered harbours, sandy shores and secluded coves on the west coast.On the 60 minute drive north from Tryphena Wharf to Port FitzRoy Wharf, you will pass both safe, sheltered and gently-sloping sandy beaches in Tryphena where small children safely play, and the breathtaking dramatic surf beaches at Medlands, Awana and Okiwi.Leave the main road and drive down the smaller roads to the coast, where you’ll discover more secluded beaches, rocky headlands and natural harbours and coves at Schooner Bay, Okupu, Whangaparapara, Harataonga, Karaka Bay and Port Abercrombie. The road to Kawa and Motairehe takes you to Katherine Bay and Kawa Bay, where two marae form the heart of Aotea’s mana whenua - Ngāti Rehua and Ngātiwai. Which Beach For WheN?Gooseberry Flat - majestic purple caves, family friendly, and with easy access to public toilets and ice blocks at Stonewall store. Oruawharo - ‘Medlands’- For waves and frolicking in the famous “Mermaid Pools”.Kaitoke - Stay at magical private campground at Sugarloaf. Blind Bay - For family picnics beneath ancient pohutukawa trees.Harataonga - For the best camping adventure. Northern end of Whangapoua and Mabey’s Beach - Visit the SS Wairarapa graves and discover what seclusion really feels like. All our beaches make the perfect scenic backdrop to capture special moments. Why not connect with a local photographer if you want professional shots of you and your loved ones? See their listings on page 16. Beach CampgroundsAotea has some of the most scenic campgrounds in the country. Head to Medlands Campground for access to the surf for all the family. Awana campground for its location tucked away on a beautiful estuary alongside nesting Oyster catchers and dotterels. Okiwi campground is known for minimal light pollution and ristine dark skies overlooked by the towering silhouette of Hirakimata (Aotea’s highest peak). Then there’s, Harataonga, for pure, secluded magic. Bringing your dog?Many of our beaches are nesting sites for native birds and dog laws are strictly enforced. Check out page 21 for places to walk your dog.BeachesComfortable Beachfront homestay on Medlands.Sleeps 3 in guest room with private access. Shared kitchen, living space, decks and garden. DIY Breakfast on request. Seasonal holiday rentals & self contained Garden chalet on request. Hosted by Vicky Kyan |waiorabeachretreat.nz| +64 9 4290 129 | vicky@gbi.nz“A view to die for” “Beautiful & relaxing” “Bazza’s is utterly perfect” Visit: bazzasbeachhouse.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 19

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Mount Heale Hut. (© DGBI)Essential Information for walkersJust like our beaches, the walks on Aotea are many and varied. Walking tracks are well maintained and mostly on public land, and managed by either the Department of Conservation (Aotea Conservation Park) or Auckland City Council. The Aotea Conservation Park is the biggest park in the Auckland area. It covers more than 12,000 hectares and has multiple walking tracks for novice and experienced walkers. The Aotea Track is a multi-day wilderness hike with two DOC huts. It is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.On the next page spread you’ll ﬁnd shorter walks around the settlements of Tryphena, Whangaparapara and Port FitzRoy. Walking Kauri Protection Stop the spread of Kauri dieback. Please use the cleaning stations and kits installed at track entrances. This is especially vital on the Forest Road track. Scrub soil o your shoes, mountain bike tyres and other dirty equipment. This not only eliminates Phytophthora agathidicida (PA) spores, but other potential nasty pests, such as weed seeds.Any movement of infested soil into kauri roots will enable PA to germinate and ﬁnd new healthy trees to infect and kill.Please be vigilant and take these simple biosecurity measures to protect kauri against this proven and deadly disease. For more information on PA and kauri dieback and what you can do to help, refer to the website: www.kauriprotection.co.nzTRACK MAPSDepartment of Conservation Track Brochures and maps are available with detailed information of tracks on DOC land. > Pick up a copy from the airport> Or download from www.greatbarrier.co.nz or the DOC websiteAOTEA TRACKThe 25km loop track takes hikers deep into the forest and high onto the mountain tops, with two fantastic backcountry huts to stay in overnight. There is a mix of steep climbs and easy ﬂat trails. There are multiple entrances to the track. From Whangaparapara road:- Kaitoke Hot Springs track- Forest Road track- Tramline track-Witheys track (via Tramline track) From Aotea Road -Tramline track- Palmers track via Windy Canyon- Coopers Castle track From Kaiaraara Bay/Port FitzRoy- Forest road trackFire. There is a complete ﬁre ban on the island all year round, as the ﬁre risk is very high. Please use gas ﬁres for cooking and check info boards.Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted on DOC campgrounds or any conservation land. All campgrounds are near special wildlife habitats and home to endangered birds like the brown teal duck. If you are using a campground that permits dogs, please keep them under control.Waste. Pack in, and pack out. There are no rubbish bins on the tracks or at the DOC huts and campgrounds and DOC promotes a Pack in and pack out policy. Waste information will be shared at the campgrounds and summer Camp Hosts’ may have a supply of council rubbish bags and recycling bags. You can also purchase these at the Claris service centre or local stores. Or set aside some time to drop o your recycling and refuse and visit the Anamata Community Resource Recovery Centre in Claris. Further waste info can be found on the inside cover.

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HutsKaiaraara Hut. Located at the beginning of the Hirakimata (Mt Hobson) track at Kaiaraara Bay, Port FitzRoy. 28 Bunks in 2 rooms, wood stove, water supply, toilets.Mt Heale Hut. Set in a saddle below Mt Heale, the hut oers back country accommodation with stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf and Hauturu/Little Barrier Island. 20 beds in 2 rooms, gas cooking, water supply, toilets.CampgroundsAkapoua, DOC. Right at the harbour edge, a 10min walk from the Port FitzRoy wharf. Access to many short walks and the Aotea Track. Trees for shade. Cold showers, toilets, shop at Port FitzRoy. Suitable for campervans.Awana, DOC. 400 metres from the popular Awana surf beach. No shade. Cold showers, toilets and suitable for campervans. Awana, Mickey’s Place - 09 4290 707. Flat sites on a farm under mature trees. Near bush, beach and on the main road. People and Post bus goes past once a day. Showers, ﬂush toilets, no animals. Your host; Mickey O’Shea.Harataonga, DOC. 300m from beach. Mature trees for shade. Isolated, 2.5km o the main road. Cold showers, toilets and suitable for campervans.Sugarloaf Campground. Call Christina - 027 2495 181. Southern end of Kaitoke Beach. One of the original settler camps of Aotea. (Camping of a long gone era, managed by memorable character Johnny Blackwell). Stunning vistas and artisan drinking water. Shaded by pohutukawa and macrocarpa trees. Safe swimming. Medlands, DOC. Situated by a saltwater creek, southern end of Medlands beach. Some shade. Cold showers, toilets and suitable for campervans.Puriri Bay, Tryphena. 021 298 8905. Nestled among native bush and beside a freshwater stream. 200m to beach, boat ramp and moorings.Stray Possum Lodge, Tryphena. 09 4290 109 or 0800 possum. Backpacker lodge with campground. Walking distance from the wharf. Hot showers, shared kitchen/lounge.Whangaparapara, DOC. The Green. Located on the edge of Whangaparapara Harbour. No vehicle access, 1km from the road. Toilets. Not suitable for campervans. Whangapoua, DOC. Situated near Okiwi airﬁeld, adjacent to Whangapoua estuary. No shade or shelter. Cold showers, toilets. Suitable for campervans. Huts -AND CampgroundsThe only places you can walk your dog o a leash are:  Awana Beach. From council access south to the point  Gooseberry Flat, Tryphena. From Pohutukawa tree by BBQ/picnic tables south to the Pohutukawa tree before the playground. Your dog must be on a leash on Pa Beach  Medlands Beach. From 100m from The Lane walkway to the south, stopping 100 metres north of the creek.  Mulberry Grove Beach, Tryphena. Excluding the creeks at each end  Okupu Beach. The entire beach area.  Okiwi. Northern side of the airstrip beside the airﬁeld.Dogs are allowed on Auckland Council walking tracks - on a leash. See page 22. Dogs are prohibited on all DOC land, including tracks and campgrounds, in any playground or sports surface area and must be under control on a leash within 10 metres of these areas. More information can also be found on the Auckland Council website. To report a dog causing immediate risk to safety to a person or property contact: Auckland Council on 09 3010101Avian (bird) awareness and aversion training help reduce the chance native birds are disturbed or killed by dogs. Courses are held regularly on Aotea. Contact Auckland Council or DOC to enquire. Biking is permitted on public roads, the Forest Road track between Port FitzRoy and Whangaparapara, the Harataonga Coastal track, the Kowhai track (Medlands) and the track below Te Ahumata. Mountain bikes are not permitted on other DOC walking tracks.DOC huts and campgrounds must be booked online. They get busy over the summer months, so book in advance. A self-registration system is in operation at each campground, a supervisor may collect fees. Camping: Adult $15, Youth (5-17) $7.50, Infants free. Huts: Adult $25, Youth (5-17) $12.50, Infants free. Visit: www.bookings.doc.govt.nzDog WALKINGMountain Biking Great Barrier Island’s Original Roof Top Tent Adventure CarsRoof Top Tent Adventure Cars | Basic Rental Cars | Camping Gear Hirewww.stayhighislandcampingco.co.nz022 3760 629VISITOR GUIDE | 21

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Harpoon Hill |20 minute return|Just up from Whangaparapara wharf is a loop connecting French Road to Harpoon Hill - you’ll be rewarded with harbour viewsIona Mine Track |40 minutes return| Signposted halfway down Blind Bay Road, past Moana View Rd. Go up and it’s on the right, a few hundred metres above the Macmillan Road turn o. A well constructed track with a clamber over the creek and some down and uphill, although not steep. The mine shat is open for about 10 metres and then closed o with a grill. Take a torch, the weta viewing is good.North- Harataonga Coastal Walkway |4-5 hours one way|An easy walk without any steep grades. Through regenerating forest. From Harataonga Campground head west across the stream before following the coastline. Finishes on Aotea Road at Okiwi. Windy Canyon Lookout |25 minutes return|Start at the summit of Whangapoua Hill and climb 100m through the andesitic rock blus of Windy Canyon to the central ridge. Extensive views of Okiwi and Kaitoke. Rare and endemic plants grow along the ridge.HSS Wairarapa Graves |20 minutes return|30 mins drive from Port FitzRoy. Follow Mabey Road from Okiwi School to the road end. Follow signposts to the beach and then go let towards Tapuwai Point. The graves are on the let. Bridle Track |20 minutes return|Starts at Port FitzRoy with an exit at Akapoua near the campground or continue from this track onto the loop track which comes out at the Waterfall on Warrens Track, passing through a kauri grove with views down upon the tree canopy as you walk. Warren’s Track |1 hour return|Gentle graded walk through a kauri plantation to a waterfall. Several deep pools, great for swimming. You can carry onto the loop track up the steps, which joins the Bridle track. Old Lady Track |45 minutes|This track links the harbour to FitzRoy Hill. A steep side track leads you to a lookout rock with impressive views over the harbour. Glenfern Loop Track This walk is inside Glenfern Sanctuary is free. Takes you along Aotea Stream, through regenerative bush and a 100m climb with expansive views of the Hauraki gulf. Short Walks -AND Day HikesSouth Dolphin Bay/Ross Bay Track |3 hours return| Just 1km along Cape Barrier Road. Follow the track, which is steep in places, through the bush to a secluded Dolphin Bay. For Ross Bay take the right fork 25 minutes along the track. Dolphin bay is great for snorkelling ater a rocky descent.Island Bay Track |1 hour return| Follow the track along the ridgeline, for expansive views of the bay and to get up close to Motu Tohora -the tail of the Southern Right Whale, otherwise known as Rabbit Island. Johnsons’ Bay/Ruahine Lookout |3-4 hours return| Park at the end of Cape Barrier Road, park up and follow the marked track to Johnson’s Bay. The trail then heads up to the right winding up the mountain. It stops at a great view point. Note it is private land from there on. Whalers Lookout is 1 hour return from the car park, look out for signage. From this southernmost point on the Barrier, you’ll have a good chance of spotting Brydes Whales. Station Rock Lookout |25 minute return|Park at the top of Medland’s road. Ater a short steep walk to one of the island’s biggest peaks, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Tryphena and clear views of the rest of the island.Kowhai Valley Track |1-2 hours walking one way. 30 minutes by bike| From the top of Rosalie Bay road this track is downhill most of the way to Medlands. Beware - it’s steep on a bike! IN THE MIDDLETe Ahumata Track & Summit |2 hour return| This track links Whangaparapara road and Blind Bay. Marvel at the species of orchid and extensive views from atop of the white clis. Branch o to the summit (extra 1 hour return)Kaitoke Hot Springs Track |40 minutes one way|Easy walk, starts 2.5km along Whangaparapara Rd. The track crosses a stream and follows the edge of the Kaitoke swamp to sulphurous hot springs where a series of natural pools are dammed. Stream water may be hot. Do not put your head under the water, because of the meningococcal risk. Old Mill Site Track |1 hour return|Cross the suspension bridge from Whangaparapara, turn south towards the harbour through the camping area to climb steeply to the ridge top. Descend and climb again before descending to the site of Kauri Timber Company Sawmill. At low tide you can walk around the shoreline to the old whaling station remains. Tramline Track to Kauri Falls |45 minutes or 4-5 hour loop|Runs from Aotea Rd to Whangaparapara. A steep (and slippery when wet) part of the track takes you from Aotea Road to the Awana Falls in 45 min. Continue on to Whangaparapara from here (4-5 hrs), or start at the other end to get to another waterfall, the Kauri falls, an easy 30 minute walk from Whangaparapara. For a loop head up the Tramline track south and turn right on Forest Road and back along Whangaparapara road. Full list of walks and locations visit:www.greatbarrier.co.nz/walksDogs allowed on track on a leash © Photos 1 & 3 Hilde Hoven. 2. sarahkmatthew.co.nz. ©Hilde Hoven

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Here is a tip for each step of your journey, from when you book to when you leave Aotea.  BOOK DIRECTBe brave, bypass the likes of Airbnb and Booking.com, and go direct to the operator or accommodation provider to make your booking. Our island economy is small; every dollar not spent on booking commission fees helps our small local operators. It’s highly likely you’ll make savings too.  OPT FOR a carbon neutral airlineWaiheke Wings (Island Aviation) became New Zealand’s ﬁrst carbon-zero certiﬁed airline in 2017. Choose to ﬂy with them from North Shore or Waiheke for a carbon neutral adventure. choose fully SOLAR POWERED AccommodationWe’re o grid. Most of our accommodation runs on solar power. Check with the owner if they use full solar, or solar with a back-up fuel generator. Opt for a place with good solar. You can even double up on transport and accommodation by booking an adventure car and rootop tent package with Stay High Island Camping Co. Try to conserve power by going with natures rhythms. Get up when its light and go to bed when its dark. Give it a go and you’ll see for yourself how this reduces power consumption.Spot clean and save up all your washing, then do it in one go at your accommodation or the laundrette. Or even better, do it back at home.  Choose electric transportMotubikes is hands-down the most environmentally sustainable way to explore the island (other than walking!) These electric motorbikes run on batteries, charged by solar energy at their depot in Claris. Other climate sensitive options include walking, biking hitchhiking, ride sharing or using the People & Post bus to head up and down the island (it’s already transporting post, so join the ride - see page 9 for details).THE ThREE BIG FAQs.Fly or ferry? Generally, if you are coming for less than 2-3 days, we recommend ﬂying to the island. The ﬂight is just 30 minutes from Auckland, the ferry is 4.5 hours. Car rental or transfers? Unless you are completing the Aotea Track, or intend to solely stay near your accommodation for the whole trip, we recommend hiring some wheels. Hosted/managed accommodation or holiday bach? If you want full immersion, and to get to know the people here, we highly recommend staying where the owners are onsite. They will share local gems with you and if you’re lucky, share their catch of the day or homegrown veggies too. Full list of walks and locations visit:www.greatbarrier.co.nz/walksFor itinerary ideas visit: www.greatbarrier.co.nz EAT -AND DRINK LOCALLY. REDUCE YOUR FOOD MILESReduce your food miles - try local produce where possible. We’ve got gin, beer, coee, honey, fruit, microgreens, potatoes and other veggies, to name a few. Avoid buying plastic or glass single use drinks; instead use the reﬁlleries around the island to ﬁll your water bottle. Or better yet, if its late aternoon, swap out the water for beer at one of the reﬁlleries - Aotea Brewing or The Rocks.  CHALLENGE YOURSELF TO A ZERO Waste HOLIDAYFollow the waste rules and tips found on the inside front cover of this guide. Get the recycling right, compost, or donate your food waste to some local chickens or pigs. If you love a coee, remember to pack your keep cup, there are no longer single-use takeaway cups on Aotea.  JOIN LOCAL GUIDES ON LOW IMPACT ExperiencesChoose low impact activities, like a guided hike with a local guide from Star Treks or stargazing with Good Heavens. Not only will you leave no trace but you’ll expand your knowledge and awe for the world we live in. With a greater anity with the natural world, you might even be inspired to change some of your habits when you get back home. Aotea is the perfect place to get inspired. We like to call it ‘going back to the future’.  IF You ARE GOING TO TAKE HOME GIFTS. SELECT LOCAL AND GIFT INTENTIONALLYChoose locally-made items; we’ve got honey, art, gorgeous natural skincare, gin and more.  Get involved with regenerative ISLAND initiativesTake a step further than just being a sustainable visitor - why not leave Aotea better than you let it? This could look like a ten-minute beach clean, volunteering at local community planting days, doing an hour’s weeding in our community gardens or donating to environmental projects on the island. MAKING Sustainable Choices.- How can you lower your impact ON Holiday?Planning your tripVISITOR GUIDE | 23

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Aotea - an isolated IslandAs an isolated island in the Hauraki Gulf, many pests present on the mainland have not been able to establish themselves here. Conversly some of the ﬂora and fauna extinct on the mainland have been able to survive on the island. We have no possums, ferrets, weasels, stoats, hedgehogs, Norway rats, feral goats or freshwater pest ﬁsh. A lot of eort is put into managing ship rats, kiore rats and feral cats, and protecting wildlife from dogs. Aotea is home to many rare and endemic species, including the banded rail, black petrel, dotterel, North island kaka, kakariki and pateke brown teal ducks. Blue penguins, albatross and gannets can also be seen o the coast. Environmental ProtectionThere are many environmental protection and restoration projects around the island. Glenfern Sanctuary in Port FitzRoy has a 2km-long predator proof fence. It is the gateway to pest-free Kotuku Peninsula. In this conservation precinct native species can breed and ﬂourish. Open daily to the public, the park is free and visitors can explore and experience some of Aotea’s most endangered species on the 2km loop track through pristine native bush. Local VisionOther environmental groups on the island, all play a part in the protection of our ecology. In Rosalie Bay in Tryphena, Windy Hill Sanctuary is working to increase the biodiversity and create a model for ecological restoration on private land. The Tū Mai Taonga project aims to protect and restore native species and ecosystems in Northern Aotea through feral cat removal and intensiﬁed rat control. The Aotea Ecology Vision also supports the community to protect, enrich and restore our island’s ecosystems. The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust supports projects such as the annual Aotea Bird Count and the Aotea Trap Library which provides free rat traps to the community to encourage locals to get involved with backyard trapping. Local ProjectsSmaller localised projects such as the Oruawharo Medlands Ecovision and Okiwi Community Ecology Project are lead by locals and focus on reducing predatory pest numbers, improving breeding grounds for native birds and restoring waterways, sand-dunes and wetlands. Okiwi Green and the Aotea Community Native Plant Nursery supply plants to properties and projects around the island, specialising in natives for reforestation, restoring waterways and creating an abundance of food for native birds. Eco-sourcing plants grown from local seeds helps maintain the natural resistance of plants to local pests and diseases. Buying plants locally is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Ecology AND- ConservationOur Treasures AND -Taonga © Renee FreelandOlearia allomii (Great Barrier Tree Daisy). An endemic shrub with large clusters of white ﬂowers, only known to grow on Aotea. Found on volcanic rocks in the centre of the island. ©Taryn WilksThreats to WildlifeFeral Cats. Cats brought to the island on holiday disappear into the bush. There are an estimated 7000 feral cats on the island. Live capture traps are used across the island for feral cats. Ensure your cat is desexed, and microchipped or collared.Argentine Ants. Transported in cars and bags. With just one queen and ﬁve workers needed to create a colony, check your gear to stop new infestations of this invasive ant on the island.Plague Skinks are expert stowaways; check your gear regularly to avoid these skinks from hitching a ride. Avoid placing goods that may attract skinks in vegetated areas.Rats. Rats prey on eggs, chicks, birds, lizards, frogs and plants. Aotea is home to the ship rat and kiore rat. There are many rat control projects across the island. Mediterranean Fanworm is a threat to native biodiversity, forming dense colonies, displacing native species and disrupting natural ecosystems. This marine pest fouls and spreads on hulls and niche areas of boats. © Sam HappyRed-eared slider turtles carry diseases that can aect native frogs and lizards. They prey on ﬁsh and birds and displace nesting wetland birds. If you spot one on Aotea, please email: biosecurity@aklc.govt.nzPāteke (Brown Teal). Endemic to NZ and the rarest waterfowl on the mainland. You’ll ﬁnd them in several locations around the island foraging in estuaries and on the water’s edge.Tūturiwhatu (NZ Dotterel). You will also ﬁnd the smaller banded dotterel on Aotea along the shorelines and in the dunes of our many beautiful beaches. Banded Kōkopu (Native Trout). A type of whitebait migratory galaxiid. Found in small tributaries, they need streamside plants to survive. ©Oscar ThomasNiho Taniwha (Chevron Skink). Our largest skink with a lifespan of over 20 years and only known to be found on Aotea and Te Hauturu-o-Toi/Little Barrier Island. Found in forests, riparian edges and streams. © Kim Bannister

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The Hauraki GulfConservation doesn’t stop at the shoreline. 20 years ater the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park was established, the Gulf is still in decline. Overﬁshing, sedimentation, invasive species, climate change and plastic pollution are taking their toll. Weeds, pest animals and disease all threaten the Gulf’s special taonga. Trying to eradicate pests from islands and controlling them once they get there is a challenging job. We need your help to keep pests away. Visit: www.ourauckland.nz/haurakigulfThere are some things you can do as a visitor to help protect and restore the Hauraki Gulf:  There are no known freshwater pest ﬁsh on Aotea. Pest ﬁsh prey on native species and modify aquatic ecosystems. Do not bring freshwater ﬁsh to Aotea and check your gear for fragments of water weed.  Bringing reptiles (frogs, turtles, lizards) to Aotea poses a serious biosecurity risk. Wild turtles have become a problem in Auckland’s waterways and drains as they quickly reach high populations, competing with or preying on native animals including birds and insects  Prevent the spread of invasive marine pests like Mediterranean fanworm by checking your boat hulls for pests and maintaining a clean hull. Check holding tanks, pontoons and equipment including ﬁshing and dive gear. Visit www.marinepests.nz  Rather than bringing potted plants with you to Aotea, buy locally to help stop the transfer of unwanted pests (e.g. plague skinks and argentine ants) and diseases to the island  Use a pest free warranted boat to transport your goods to Aotea. Full list available with DOC - www.tinyurl.com/DOCPFW  Check your boat, vehicle, kayak, jet ski, camping and hiking gear etc. for stowaway pests such as rats and skinks. Remove any soil, seeds and seaweed fragments and close all food in sealed containers before you travel  Important information about the invasive seaweed Caulerpa can be found on the next page. Our Treasures AND -TaongaThreats to WildlifeHelpful contacts:Auckland Biosecurity Team biosecurity@aklc.govt.nzDepartment of Conservation Hotline 0800 362 468Bird Rescue (Karen Walker) 09 4290 478 Learn more about our native treasures, get involved in conservation or to ﬁnd out what events are happening on Aotea visit: www.ecologyvision.co.nzGET INVOLVEDGET INVOLVEDAuckland Council is working towards eradicating and keeping out a number of high risk pest plant species from Aotea. We need your help to hunt these plants out. Auckland Council is working towards eradicating and keeping out a number of high risk pest plant species from Aotea. We need your help to hunt these plants out. Visit to join the project inaturalist.org ‘Aotea High Risk Weeds’ where you will ﬁnd a list of plant species to watch out for. Then simply record your weedy ﬁnds or email biosecurity@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz1. Find it2. Record itVisit inaturalist.orgJoin project ‘Aotea High Risk Weeds’ Identify and record your weedy ﬁnd! 1. Find it2. Record itbiosecurity@aucklandcouncil.govt.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 25

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Information for BoatsMarine ContactsMaritime Radio VHF channel 16Coastguard North Region *500 or 111 or VHF channel 16 Auckland Harbour Master 09 362 0397MarineMate AppFuel & Water* is available fromWhangaparapara ( 24 hours - 7 days)Port FitzRoy *Water is subject to availability over summerDogs are prohibited on all DOC public conservation land and boaties should note that there are no beaches in the Port FitzRoy Harbour to exercise dogs. A list of dog exercise areas can be found on page 21.Waste. Aotea doesn’t have a landﬁll (all refuse is shipped back to mainland). There are no public rubbish bins. We are striving for zero waste and providing solutions to achieve this goal. Please consider taking your rubbish home with you. Alternatively, you may purchase a Council rubbish bag or/and recycling bag from one of our local stores and drop it o during open hours to the Anamata or leave it out for roadside collection on Monday (south of the island) and Tuesday (north of the island, including Okupu and Whangaparapara) prior to 8am.Boat Sewage To discharge untreated sewage from a boat, you must be in water that is more than 5m deep, be more than 500m from shore, 500m from a marine farm, 200m from a marine reserve and not in Port FitzRoy, Nagle Cove or Tryphena Harbour. The boat discharge rules app provides your location in relation to the restrictions. For instructions, search ‘Boat Sewage’ at: aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Pests Check your boat, gear and equipment for pests e.g. ants and signs of pests before you travel to Aotea and between islands. Close your bags and use sealed containers. Store rubbish in bins with lids. Some pests can swim, so you should check again if you are going within 1km of an island. For more tips:aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/environment/what-you-can-do-for-environment/Pages/visiting-hauraki-gulf-islands.aspxCaulerpa- Controlled Area NoticeA pest seaweed Caulerpa Brachypus has been found in the waters around the island. Please read the notice to the let and visit the biosecurity website for up-to-date information about the legal controls in place. These controls aect anchoring and ﬁshing in certain areas. For more information for boaties visit: www.greatbarrier.co.nz MARINE RADIOThis service was previously run locally by the GBI marine radio, this is no longer the case and this channel puts your through to the central Auckland Coastguard. Coverage is now 24 hours. Please be prepared to give them your vessel name and call sign. Please note they do not have Aotea Great Barrier Island local information like fuel stops, store opening times etc so we recommend looking this up online or calling operators directly. BOAT RAMPSThere are designated boat ramps on the island - none are on the East Coast although it is possible to launch a boat into the estuary at Whangapoua at high tide.  Wharves: Tryphena, Okupu (Blind Bay), Whangaparapara and Port FitzRoy.  Medlands: Access by the DOC campground. Suitable in all tides.  Okupu: By the wharf and at the beach.  Whangaparapara: By the wharf.  North Barrier: Port FitzRoy wharf, Akapoua Bay, Karaka Bay, Whangapoua campground into the estuary at low tide only  Tryphena: Intersection of Schooner Bay Rd/Puriri Bay Road and at the intersection of Medlands Rd/Shoal Bay Rd, near the Community hall.  Mulberry Grove: By the school and shoal Bay Road opposite the Shoal Bay Pottery.VISITOR GUIDE | 27

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Cliff top apartment for 2-4 guests in Schooner Bay,Tryphena, Aotea - www.xspot.co.nz - 027 4290877Reset atSituated in the heart of Tryphena, a stone’s throw from the waters edge, fabulous restaurant and Irish Pub on site. Relax and enjoy the evening sunset on our spacious deck or beautiful gardens. Group and family bookings welcomed. Ph: 09 4290 211 or 021 1741 537 www.currachirishpub.co.nzThe Innkeeper’s Lodge09 4290 550 or 027 5505 187margery@waterfrontlodge.co.nz | www.waterfrontlodge.co.nzPete & Margery HarrisTipi & Bobs - Waterfront LodgeAll units are self containedConferences & WeddingsHospitality is our business@greatbarrierislandnz021 0284 4486info@175east.nz www.175east.nzThree luxury houses on 14 acres overlooking the fabulous Medlands beach, carefully positioned to allow for individual privacy, sun and shelter. Each individual house sleeps six persons which makes 175° East the perfect space for a celebration, yoga retreat or family get together! Rent one or all three. Get in touch to book. Plan your escape.AccommodationAotea oers a great range of accommodation. Find baches within a stones throw of the beach, or a cabin hidden deep in pristine native bush. Accommodation is available in every corner of the island; from boutique cabins to back to basic baches, award winning architectural masterpieces to backpackers, tent sites with million-dollar views and eco lodges for group getaways, there are options for everyone.Most accommodation providers are listed on the normal booking platforms, but many can be booked directly through their private websites. Get in contact with the owner so you can avoid large booking fees.Local Tip-: For local accommodation advice visit: greatbarrier.co.nz and Go Great Barrier at greatbarrierislandtourism.co.nzConvenient, inexpensive, backpacker accommodation near the airport. Phone David 09 4290 773dwatson4290773@gmail.comWiltshire Manor Claris

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Contact your hosts Lynley & Leighwww.sunsetlodge.co.nz+64 9429 0051|enquiries@sunsetlodge.co.nzBeachfront Self-contained studios & villas 40 inch TV & Wi-FiWedding venue & conference facilitiesBBQ/sh stationLawn games, kayaks, SUPs, snorkel gearBeautiful waterfront propertyWell appointed kitchen Spacious deck4 x Double rooms with ensuite2 x Self-contained studiosPigeons LodgePigeons Lodge179 Shoal Bay Road 09 4290 776www.pigeonslodge.co.nzTwo self-contained cottages in Tryphena. Kaka Cottage sleeps one couple. Kereru Cottage sleeps 6 people. Peaceful setting on a large block of regenerating native bush. Seaviews,close to the beach, shops.Kaka Cottage & Kereru CottageNikau HeightsT: 021 858 927 or 021 214 7157 E: nikauheights@gmail.comwww.holidayhouses.co.nz Ref: 21679 and 17975BOHO HILL ESCAPE Boutique accommodation | Port FitzRoyStylish & cosy 1 bedroom apartment overlooking Kaiaraara Bay. Intimate deck area for breakfast, evening drinks and sunsets.www.greatbarrier.co.nz - Boho Hill EscapeVISITOR GUIDE | 29

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Port FitzRoy HarbourFlightsBarrier Air - Scheduled air services from/to Auckland Airport, Northshore to Aotea/Great Barrier Island 0800 900 600 or 09 275 9120Island Aviation - NEW service running scheduled ﬂights from North Shore and Waiheke 09 390 1122Sunair - Scheduled services to Whangarei, Great Barrier incl. Okiwi Whitianga, Tauranga, Hamilton, Ardmore 0800 786 247Air Auckland - Transfer, scenic and charter ﬂights from Ardmore. 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset, unscheduled basis. 09 426 4276 or 0508 235 969Auckland Seaplanes - Adventure trips and charter services to GBI from Auckland Harbour Aerodrome. 40 minutes door to door in a De Havilland Beaver Floatplane with seats for 6 adults. 09 390 1121Heletranz - Base at Rosedale Rd, Albany and pads at Mechanics Bay, Auckland Airport and Waiheke Island for collection and drop o. 09 415 3550Oceania Helicopters - 09 238 8676 or 027 494 2045 Charter ﬂights from Mechanics Bay downtown Auckland, Ardmore Airﬁeld, Auckand Airport, Drury. 09 415 3550Helicopterme - Scenic ﬂights, tours and charters 09 303 4354By BoatA relaxing four and a half hours from Auckland, or charter a boat for a a shorter crossing. SeaLink - Vehicular and passenger ferry departs Hamer Street in Auckland to Tryphena 0800 SEALINK (732 546) or 09 300 5900Hauraki Express - Fishing charters from the Auckland area and water taxi service within the Hauraki Gulf. 027 664 6644By air or by sea, getting to Aotea Great Barrier Island is all part of the adventure. For short weekend stays we recommend taking a short ﬂight from Auckland and hiring a car. For longer stays a return boat trip or ﬂy in, boat out are also great options.The ﬂight from the Auckland domestic terminal or the North Shore Aeroclub is just 30 minutes. Other ﬂight departure points to the island include Ardmore, Whangarei, Whitianga, Tauranga and Waiheke Island. LOCAL Tip: Over the peak summer months and long weekends you will need to book far in advance.Multi award winning operator with twin-engine 10 seater and single engine aircraft operating scheduled & charter ﬂ ights. Twice daily ﬂ ights from North Shore Airport, plus on demand direct ﬂ ights to Waiheke, Ardmore (Takanini), Pauanui, Whitianga & across the North Island.Scenic ﬂ ights to Waiheke Island including great deals & packages.Free parking and lounge facilities at our airports. Flights go to/from Claris & Okiwi airport.Freight delivered at an attractive rate.www.islandaviation.co.nz09 390 1111GREAT BARRIER ISLAND SUNAIR AVIATIONFlights up to six days a week Mostly direct flights to Tauranga, Ardmore, Whitianga & WhangareiPets & Freight welcomeLow Fares and Daily Deals Scenic and Charters available upon requestCall Bev or Naomi for assistanceBookings: www.sunair.co.nz | info@sunair.co.nz 0800 SUNAIR (0800 786 247) or 07 575 7799 Getting here

Visitor Guide 2024

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