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Visitor Guide 2024

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cover illustration by sarahkmatthew.co.nz

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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.nzZERO WASTE ON AOTEA66c Gray Road, ClarisWith Support from Auckland CouncilHelp us protect this paradise -minimise your waste and wherepossible, take it back with you.If you do need to dispose ofrecycling and waste on-island,here's how.OPENING TIMES:Peak Season: (23 Dec - 1 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 yourrecycling and reusable items to. With a shoponsite which sells household goods, buildingmaterials and upcycled crafts and treasuresyou can keep yourself entertained for 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, Anamataand 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 oneof the local stores. They can be disposed of at the Claristransfer station and Anamata, or left for roadside collection atallocated spots as per days below. There are no rubbishcollection points at 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). For DOC campground and hut guests, instructions can be found onpage 29. If you want to make sure you get your recycling 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 WASTESTANDARDISED ROADSIDERECYCLABLESGLASS, PLASTICS, CANS, TINSPAPER AND CARDBOARD(BUNDLED SECURELY BESIDERECYCLING BIN)CLEAN SOFT PLASTICSDROP-OFF RECYCLABLESPOLYSTYRENETETRAPAKS BATTERIES, EWASTE, TYRESLIDS & MORE

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:Haere mai ki AoteaNgāti Rehua Ngātiwai Ki AoteaPlanning your trip What’s onGetting hereVisiting by boatGetting around AccommodationEssential InformationGrocery StoresEat & DrinkMapExperiences StargazingSurf & SunbatheHealth & WellbeingArts & Heritage TrailWalking- Short Walks- Huts & CampgroundsBringing your pet on holiday Local Food ProjectsEcology & Conservation Protecting the Gulf34567891013141618202122232426272829313234HAERE 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, and 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 (guardianship/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) we warmly welcome you. Aotea’s 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. Hilde Hoven. 3. Aotea Arts & History Village. 4. Hilde Hoven. VISITOR GUIDE | 3

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NgAāti Rehua āNgAātiwai 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 AoteaNgāti 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 supplied by Ngāti Rehua-Ngatiwai Ki Aotea.There are two Marae here on Aotea:Kawa Maraewww.kawamarae.comkawamarae.gbi@gmail.com09 4290 070Kawa Rd, Katherine Bay Motairehe Maraemotairehemarae@xtra.co.nz09 4290 790Motairehe Road, Katherine Bay

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Getting to the Island 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 from downtown Auckland. There are also flight options from the Northshore, Ardmore, Waiheke and Tauranga. Getting AROUND the IslandCar rental or transfers? There is no public transport on the island. Unless you are completing the Aotea Track, or intend to solely stay near your accommodation for the whole trip, we recommend hiring a vehicle. You’ll find options on page 9. Where to StayHosted/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. Planning your TRIP TO AOTEANo 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 Singleā āuse 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 24 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. WHAT YOU WON'T FIND ON AOTEA GREAT BARRIER ISLANDā...AND WHY YOU WON'T MISS ANY OF ITNo 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), Deb & Hilde (Good Heavens) and many others!No Zoos...You’ll find many taonga (treasures) that are rarer and more ecologically significant than 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 32).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. HAssle Free PACKAGE OPTIONSThere are several local operators who put together bespoke holiday packages, including transport to the island, accommodation, transport on island and experiences. By booking a package, you will get a competitive deal and priceless local knowledge to ensure your experience matches your unique needs. Visit: www.greatbarrier.co.nz/packagesVISITOR GUIDE | 5

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To explore the Hauraki Gulf visit SeaLink.co.nzWHATS on?Visit: www.greatbarrier.co.nz/events for a full event calendar and to subscribe to the google calendar. Annual 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.nzREGULAR EventsJam Nights at The Currach Every Thursday night Music events at Barrier Social Club Throughout the year. Check out @barriersocialclub Movie nights with Island Screens At Barrier Social Club, every Monday night Stonewall, Growers & Makers and other marketsKeep an eye on notice boards!Gallery Exhibitions & Workshops aoteaartsandhistoryvillage.nz

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Port FitzRoy Harbour Scheduled Flights from Tauranga, Whangarei, Whitianga, and Ardmore(Auckland) to Great Barrier Island. Traveling with Pets: Pets can sit with theirowners on board.*Subject to size and availability. Custom Scenic and Charter Flights. Tailor your experience to any destination in New Zealand. Freight & Cargo solutions make it easy to bring your extra gear to Great Barrier Island.BOOKINGS WWW.SUNAIR.CO.NZINFO@SUNAIR.CO.NZ0800 SUNAIR (0800 786 247)OR 07 575 7799Sunair Aviationwww.sunair.co.nz0800 786 247BY planeBarrier Air - Scheduled air services from/to Auckland Airport, North Shore and Tauranga to Aotea/Great Barrier Island 0800 900 600 or 09 275 9120Island Aviation - Service running scheduled flights from the North Shore and Waiheke 09 390 1111Sunair - 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 downtown 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 6644Sailing or motoring on your own boat? Check out page 8 for tips and local boating informationBy 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 it is best to book far in advance to avoid disappointment. Consider booking a package to access competitive transport rates.Getting hereMulti 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 1111VISITOR GUIDE | 7

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Visiting by boat?Marine 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 29Waste. 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 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.aspxAotea Great Barrier Island has the largest natural harbour in the southern hemisphere to the North of the island in Port FitzRoy. This makes it an amazing destination to visit by boat. There are many sheltered habours around the island. However, down the west coast there are anchoring restrictions to help stop the spread of an invasive seaweed - caulerpa brachypus. You’ll find more information on page 34. You can still moor in these harbours and will find local mooring rentals and more information for boaties at: 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.

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Getting AroundCar 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 (Tim & Jane) 022 3760 629Passenger Transport Norm & Fleur (Explore Great Barrier) 021 636 398Fiona’s Shuttles 027 909 1462Go Great Barrier - transport services, rental cars (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 296Kevin (Stray Possum Lodge) 09 4290 109Two WheelsMotubikes (Seagar) 022 344 0645Bikes for Hire - Pharmacy (Dennis) 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 the 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.Please note there are New Speed LimitsThere are new speed limits on the island from 24 October 2024. The base speed limit for all roads will be 60km/h, with a 40km/h limit in areas with high pedestrian activity. The proposal was developed following requests from the local community.LOCAL 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.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 CUSTOMERS09 429 0897 or 021 636398 normw55@gmail.comDROP OFF, PICKUPPICNIC TOURSTRANSPORTATIONAOTEA GREAT BARRIEREXPLOREGreat 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 | 9

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@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 Tipā: For local accommodation advice visit: greatbarrier.co.nz and Go Great Barrier at greatbarrierislandtourism.co.nzBeautiful 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.nz

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Cliff top apartment for 2-4 guests in Schooner Bay,Tryphena, Aotea - www.xspot.co.nz - 027 4290877Reset at09 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 businessConvenient, inexpensive, backpacker accommodation near the airport. Phone David 09 4290 773dwatson4290773@gmail.comWiltshire Manor Claris 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 gearTwo 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 EscapeMedlands 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.comVISITOR GUIDE | 11

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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) Comfortable 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

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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 wiāfiClaris AirportClaris StoreCouncil service centre (Claris) Barrier Social Club (Tryphena)Tryphena HallLaundromatClaris CentreSunset Lodge (Tryphena)Drinking Water StationsInside Claris AirportOutside Claris StoreOutside The Currach Irish PubWATER REFILL STATION MAPāUseful 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 Department of Conservation 0800 DOC HOTOkiwi Department of Conservation Oce 09 4290 044 Aotea Health - Urgent and Ater-hours Care 09 4290 356 Emergency: Ambulance, Fire, Police, Coastguard 111Local Police 09 4290 343Port FitzRoy Nurses Cottage 09 4290 047Auckland Council Service Centre 09 4290 258Anamata Waste Recovery Centre 09 4290 054Pharmacy 09 4290 006Barrier Automotive 09 4290 830Aotea Gas (LPG) 09 4290 968Claris Tyres 09 4290 885Aotea Island Play Centre - Open to visitors 09 4290 600CC Tech (Printing/Laminating/Charging cables/Sims/Repairs) 021 448 444Essential InformationVISITOR GUIDE | 13

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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 260SouthBarrier 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 451NorthPort FitzRoy General Store & Bottle Shop 09 4290 056CentralClaris 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 Our 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 prices include 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 Tipāā: 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. GROCERY Stores>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 118

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Port FitzRoy StoreFull range of Groceries,Fruit and VegetablesPhone 4290 056Wines, Spirits, Beer, Bait, Ice, Fishing Gear, LPG FillsBARRIER 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/gbiislandscreensSpend 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 420Caity 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.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 15

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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. ClarisCandy Shells Kitchen at GBI Sports & Social Club, Whangaparapara Road. Great Food, Great Vibes. Great Barrier 027 3033 955 or Social club: 09 4290 260Golf Club, Whangaparapara Road. Delicious meals and cold drinks on Thursdays and Sundays. 09 4290 420 My Fat Puku Café, Claris. Fresh food, fabulous organic coee, garden setting, pizza nights. 09 4290 811The Burga Shak. Gourmet burgers, wraps, salads, fries, seafood, hot and cold drinks. 09 4290 226 Aotea Brewing, Mason Rd - Medlands. Fresh local beer refill station, food and events through summer. Visit: aoteabrewing.co.nzFrom 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 Saturday 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 āāAND 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 tipā: Opening times vary so please do call ahead or check online. Book in advance, over summer and winter. 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 260

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RESTAURANT & PUBExcellent cuisine from ourtalented chefs, Ottolenghiinfluenced fare, woodfired pizzas, fresh oysters,craft beers and more7 DAYS A WEEKDURING SUMMERFROM 4PMACCOMMODATIONChoose from a range ofroom offerings, all completewith en-suite amenities, juststeps from the beach &shopsFROM $200 A NIGHTHOLIDAYPACKAGESIncludes return airfare, twonights accommodation,two day car rental andcomplimentary drink$600 PER PERSONFOR TWO NIGHTS78 Blackwell DriveTryphena, AoteaInfo@CurrachIrishPub.co.nz09 429 0211Reservationsrecommended at alltimes to avoiddisappointment.Contact us on the detailsbelow to reserve a table.Keep in touch for information onupcoming exhibitions and gigs.This summer we welcome NathanHaines, Holly Smith, Eagles tributeband “Hell Freezes Over”, TheSirens, Celtic Connections andmany others.We host weddings,birthday parties andevents. Talk to us about yourspecial day. VISIT OR BOOK& Innkeepers LodgeThe Currach Irish PubThe Currach Irish Pub & TheInnkeeper’s LodgeCurrachIrishPub.co.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 17

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Ko Aotea te moutere rongonui - Ko Hirakimatā te maunga tapu - Ko Te Moana Nui o Toi te Huatahi te moana o te Tuatara, te Mauri, rātou ko Tukaiaia ngā kaitiaki - Ko Aotea te kāinga o ngā uri o Ngāti Rehua - Ānei 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 Manaakitanga - Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea.Orama -Water refill stationLaundromatWiFiGlenfern - Regional Park -Local Arts & Heritage Find island inspired art at locations around the island on the arts and heritage trail on page 26

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Ko Aotea te moutere rongonui - Ko Hirakimatā te maunga tapu - Ko Te Moana Nui o Toi te Huatahi te moana o te Tuatara, te Mauri, rātou ko Tukaiaia ngā kaitiaki - Ko Aotea te kāinga o ngā uri o Ngāti Rehua - Ānei 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 Manaakitanga - Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea.Orama -Water refill stationLaundromatWiFiGlenfern - Regional Park -Local Arts & Heritage Find island inspired art at locations around the island on the arts and heritage trail on page 26VISITOR GUIDE | 19

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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 ā Heritage Points of Interest The full Arts & Heritage trail can be found on page 24 Dark Sky Sanctuary ExperiencesGood Heavens – Stargazing experiences More details on the next page and book online at www.goodheavens.co.nz or call 027 4290 877Carol Comer - Astrophotography Adventures 027 767 0071 DivingPort FitzRoy Dive Station For fills, hire, tests, batteries 021 0829 3887Hooked on Barrier - www.hookedonbarrier.co.nz 021 0276 2332Electric MotorbikesMotuBikes www.motubikes.co.nz or call 022 344 0645 Fishing Chartersā and Coastal ToursHooked on Barrier - Book online at www.hookedonbarrier.co.nz or call 021 0276 2332GolfGreat 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 420Kayak HIRE 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. See greatbarrier.co.nz/events for details and whats on OutdOOR WATERSPORTSOrama Marine Adventure Center orama.nz or 09 4290 063Photographers āSarah Matthew sarahkmatthew.co.nzCarol Comer - Bare Photography carolcomer.nzPaddleboard HIREAquahut, Sunset Lodge, Tryphena 09 4290 051 Surfboard Hire Salty Bushman Surboard Hire 027 255 3773 Tours āRodney Ngawaka - Kaitiaki o Aotea - Cultural Tours/Experiences kawawairua@gmail.com | 0224617150Explore Great Barrier 021 636 398Great Barrier Travel 09 4290 474Walking Check out page 24 and collect a DOC track map from the airportGlenfern Sanctuary - Regional Park. Guided and self guided walks. Port FitzRoy. glenfern.org.nz or 09 4290 091Walking Legends - Guided walking holidays. walkinglegends.co.nz or 0800 WALK NZWater TaxiHauraki Express from AKL 027 664 664Wellbeing, Massage āAND YogaSee page 23 for a full list of health and well being experiences and local practitioners LOCAL TIPā: Book experiences ahead and check the weather. If in doubt ask the operator or a local.

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Stargazing Aotea Great Barrier Island was recognised as a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017 by the International Dark Sky Association. This status means that our island is protected from the harmful eects of light pollution forever. Aotea’s skies are exceptionally clear and dark and without the impact of artificial light, the island is widely considered as one of the best places in the Southern Hemisphere to view the night sky. It’s the perfect place to embark on a stargazing adventure! With half the world’s population now living in cities, many urban dwellers have never experienced the wonderment of pristine dark skies.Experiencing Our Night SkiesThe best way to enjoy our Dark Sky Sanctuary sky is on a guided stargazing tour. It makes a dierence to have explained to you what you are looking at and how things are moving through the sky. You’ll also see so much more through binoculars and a telescope. In addition, there are fun stories and hot drinks. (see how to book and more details to the right). If you prefer stargazing by yourself, dress up warmly, bring a blanket if you have one, and a thermos with a hot drink and find a dark spot, away from artificial light with a wide view of the sky. Beaches are good, and if you are lucky you may get to see some bio-luminescence in the waves as well! Once you’ve found a dark spot, let your eyes adjust to the dark. This can take up to 10 minutes. In that time, don’t look at anything bright, including your phone. Ater 30 minutes your night vision will be optimal. You can use an app on your phone, but this will spoil your night vision a bit, defeating the purpose. Try - Universe2Go or Sky Safari. The Milky Way is visible from February - November. It’s our side on view of the Milky Way disk. In the Southern Hemispere the Earth is tilted towards the Milky Way, so that we have front row seats. We can see much more of it throughout the year than stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere. The shimmering Magellanic Clouds are high in the southern sky throughout summer. They are satellite galaxies to our Milky Way. In the colder months you’ll find the Southern Cross followed by the two pointer stars in this area as they appear to be circling around the South Celestial Pole. When the Moon is large in the night time sky, it’s a fantastic time to go for a stroll on the beach ater dark. Enjoy the moonlight dancing on the waves. If you time it right you could even see the Moon rise out of the ocean. A wonderful experience as this red disk slowly ascends into the sky.Good Heavens Dark Sky Tours DetailsLook Up & Get Lost. Group Experiences: Group experiences - Look Up and Get Lost - run on clear nights, two to four times a week. They turn into a Moon Walk for about 10 days each month, when the moon is bright in the evening sky. Small groups or singles can join in, for a total group size of no more than 12 stargazers. This ensures that guides can interact with stargazers and have time to answer their questions. Heavens Above. Private Experiences: For groups of friends, colleagues or family who use an interpreter, like to have an alcoholic drink during their experience, or who have (sleeping) children to consider, the team can come to you, at a suitable location or accommodation for a private ‘Heavens Above’ experience.BookBook your Good Heavens experience via their website or by email or phone for a fun and personalised experience. Make sure to book early for your preferred night, as availability is limited due to small group sizes. One or more back-up dates are handy, so that if it’s cloudy the team can try to take you stargazing on an alternative night.• Advance booking is required, either online www.goodheavens.co.nz, email: info@goodheavens.co.nz or phone us on 0274290877• Warm clothing is essential, blankets are provided• Experiences are weather dependent - full refund given if weather prevents stargazing• Recommended min. age is 8 years• Tours start from 730pm to 930pm in summer, or even 1130pm in summer depending on the sunset• You will receive a full refund for your stargazing experience if it can’t go ahead because of cloud.• Please note that at certain times of the year availability may be limited. Book early.www.goodheavens.co.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 21

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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. There is a beach for everyone and for every kind of activity. Tryphena In Tryphena you’ll find two main beaches, Mulberry Grove Beach and Gooseberry Flat. Perfect for young families who want to build sandcastles, picnic, swim and dolphin watch. Both beaches are close to shops to pick up an icecream and you will also find the Aquahut for paddleboard and kayak rental at Sunset Lodge in Mulberry Grove for those keen for adventure on the water. Oruawharo Medlands Over the hill from Tryphena you’ll find the popular beach - Medlands. Lined with holidays baches, this sweeping white sand beach comes alive through the height of summer. On calm days you’ll find perfect swimming spots and when the surf picks up you’ll find a wave suitable for all abilities. At low tide you can head to Memory Rock in the middle of the beach where you’ll find a mermaid pool to swim in. Keep an eye out for the sandcastle competition, surf lessons advertised and annual surfing competition over peak summer.KaitokeIf you have flown to the Island, Kaitoke is the majestic beach you flew in over by the airfield in Claris. You can access this beach down Sugar Loaf road, at the end of Ocean View road or to the northern end at Kaitoke Estuary. This is another great beach for surfing, exploring and through the cooler months a great place for a long beach walk. OkupuLocated on the West coast, you’ll find Okupu beach. Another sheltered spot to spend the day with the family, and a great place for boat launching. Or head round to Blind bay wharf for another great swimming spot or to manu with your friends. AwanaWhen the surfs up, you’ll find the small car park of this popular surf spot fairly full. This white sand beach is also a great place to explore with kids. At the Northern end there is a sheltered, meandering estuary. Park up at the DOC campground to enjoy the grassy areas for a picnic. The shore of the estuary is a great for young kids to play. HarataongaThis o the beaten track beach is not one to be missed. Make the extra eort to venture down Harataonga road on the East coast on the drive up to Port FitzRoy and you’ll find a beautiful hidden campground. From there you can take a short venture down to the beach. Small oshore Dragon Island makes for a great adventure on a kayak and shelters the beach making it another great swimming spot. WhangapouaAnother sweeping white sand surf beach, the furthest to the North East of the island. This beach is accessible through the Whangapoua/Okiwi estuary at the DOC Whangapoua campground or at the end of Mabey Road. You can also follow the sign posts from here to the grave site of one of the worst shipwrecks in NZ’s maritime history - the SS Wairarapa. Surf AND SunbatheBeach CampgroundsAotea has some of the most scenic DOC 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 pristine dark skies and is overlooked by the towering silhouette of Hirakimata (Aotea’s highest peak). Then there’s, Harataonga campground, for pure, secluded magic. There are also private campgrounds - one nestled up behind Puriri Bay in Tryphena amongst native bush, plus the stunning and wild Sugarloaf campground at the southern end of Kaitoke beach. See the full list of campgrouds and details on page 28. Bringing your dog?Many of our beaches are nesting sites for native birds and dog laws are strictly enforced. Check out page 29 for places to walk your dog.Pa Beach - Tryphena Whangapoua estuary and beach

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Health āAND Wellbeing āExperiencesFor many visitors, Aotea is a place to disconnect from busy daily life and replemish their health and wellbeing. We have an abundance of highly skilled local health and wellbeing practitioners for ulitmate relaxation, pampering and restoration during your stay.Florence Therapies | Massage | Abigail FlorenceAbigail holds a Diploma of Remedial Massage, a Certificate IV in Sports Massage. She oers deep relaxation to injury recovery and prevention massages. Practicing alongside Physios, Osteos and TCM Doctors in leading multidisciplinary clinics within Australia for over 8 years. She applies her anatomy and physiology knowledge with her intuition to cultivate treatments that aim to reduce pain and stress in the tinana (body). Bookings: Insta/FB: @FlorenceTherapies | 020 4146 7056 | florencetherapies@gmail.comHaven Hauora | Traditional Chinese Massage & Accupuncture | Alya Malcolm-MarxAlya is a registered acupuncturist that visits Aotea every six to eight weeks to bring Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to the island. She has a Bachelor of Health Science (Acupuncture) from the NZ School of Acupuncture and TCM. Alya uses traditional Chinese healing modalities including acupuncture, moxibustion, fire cupping and guasha. Bookings: Online bookings via website: www.havenhauora.co.nz. Insta: @havenhauora FB: Haven HauoraThai Massage | Sacha EddingtonThai massage is an interactive massage with stretches and allows the body to open and feel balanced. Sacha studied Traditional Thai Massage (Northern Style), returning several times to Thailand to deepen her skills. Since then, she has studied several styles of massage along with anatomy, somatic movement and yoga. She has been massaging initially starting with friends, family and people she met who are in need. Bookings: Ph: 0279354873 | FB: Aotea Holistic PractitionersWaiOra Wellbeing | Nature Bathing & Flower Essence Therapy | Vicky KyanVicky’s passion is in helping others to reconnect to themselves to each other and nature. Vicky practices NZ Native Flower essence therapy and Wellbeing Wander walks. Vicky pioneered the practice of Forest Bathing in Australasia as the first certified Guide outside of USA and Japan in 2015. Find out more about Vicky’s additional oerings such as Retreats and stays on her website below. Bookings: www.waiorabeachretreat.nz | Email: vicky@gbi.nz |Phone: +64 27 3838300Aotea Beauty | Beauty Therapy | D’Arna LauderD’Arna is a dedicated health advocate and beauty therapist of 14 years with a love for holistic health. She runs her own small beauty business on the island and combines her passion for natural beauty with a commitment to helping others feel their best. She believes that true beauty comes from within, and is here to empower her clients through personalised treatments and wellness advice that nurture both body and spirit. Bookings: IG: @aotea.beauty FB: Aotea Beauty | aoteabeautygbi@outlook.com | 027 873 1327Sharni Jade Hair Stylist Sharni Jade is an NZ qualified senior hair stylist with extensive experience in high-end salons in Tauranga and Central Auckland, she specialises in blondes, brunettes, balayage transformations, and precision haircuts for women, men and children. She oers colour packages and special occasion styling. She strives to boost her clients’ confidence and enhance their natural beauty through a personalised approach. Bookings: Instagram: sharnijade_stylist | Ph: 027 847 0008 | Email: sharnijade3@gmail.comTe Ao Haurongo | Rongoā Māori & Western Herbalism | Fleur Winger & Phoebe NgawakaWeaving Together Rongoā Māori & Western Herbalism, Te Ao Haurongo approach each person in a thoughtful and spiritual way, using Western medical herbalism, the distilled power of plants, tākutaku, and karakia. Fleur has been producing herbal remedies for over 20 years and has a strong belief in the healing power of hears. Phoebe is a Rongoā practitioner of 7 years and holds her certificate (level 4) and diploma (level 5) of Rongoā Maori with Te Wananga O Aotearoa under Awhitia Mihaere.Bookings: www.teaohaurongo.co.nz | teaohaurongo@gmail.com| Ph: 09 429 0897 | Mobile: 021 636 398Aotea Yoga Collective | Yoga The Aotea yoga collective is a collaboration of passionate yoga teachers sharing classes across the motu (island), we each bring our unique style with our dierent backgrounds in; Yoga therapy, Hatha, Yin, Vinyassa, Iyengar, Kundalini and Postnatal rehabilitation, with a combined teaching experience of 45 years. Join us to nourish your Mind, Body and spirit, EveryBody is welcome! As a collective we enjoy gathering to practice Kirtan, also to share each of our gits to inspire and support each other along our personal and teaching journeys. Find our class timetable on our facebook page: Aotea yoga collectiveContact: aoteayoga@gmail.com | Ph: 0220967813 (to arrange a private or specialised class) VISITOR GUIDE | 23

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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 weekends 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.

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The Aotea Arts & History Village is a proud place with the most incredible heart for Aotea creatives, history and community experiences. Gallery & ExhibitionsOur gallery space is mostly run by volunteers with the aim to be open most days of the year. We are generously supported by Local Board & Auckland council and our members. Aotea Arts & History Village is the proof of community spirit from humble beginnings the village started from a collection of Aotea artists wanting a permanent exhibition space. The village oers space for members with a strong connection to the island to showcase their talents. With regular exhibitions for solo shows and themed exhibitions Aotea Arts & History Village is a must visit destination during your trip to the island. You will find the village a handy two minute walk from Claris airport. The Gray House MuseumSituated next door is to the gallery is the Gray House Museum, lovingly curated and packed with Aotea history and heritage - make sure you spare a half hour to take it all in.The History HutNestled between the two main buildings is the History Hut run by the Great Barrier Island History Research Group which holds written and audio archives of years gone by.The Schoolmasters HouseOpposite the museum you will find The Schoolmasters house, this building was many things and where the gallery first began. It is now venue space for workshops and community meetings. Get in touch if you would like to hire this space. Artists in Residence StudioLast but not least, we have the curious little building that some say looks like a church, this is the newest edition which has recently been brought to life as a studio space for artists in residence. This space will give the community and visitors the opportunity to interact with artists and in turn a more permanent space for the artist to experience interactions one on one.Everybody’s Market & EventsWe also have a fabulous outdoor space in the centre of the village where “Everybody’s Market” is held - look out for dates and details of these markets on greatbarrier.co.nz/events. Annually our three schools also come together to celebrate Matariki -a tradition that all Aotea community enjoy We look forward to welcoming you to the Aotea Arts & History Village - don’t forget to sign our visitors book. Contact Aotea Arts & History VillageVillage Coordinator: Helen McLorinan coordinator@aoteaahv.nzGallery Manager: Kylie Simpson manager@aoteaahv.nzPhone (09) 4290 580ARTS āAND HISTORY VILLAGEVISITOR GUIDE | 25

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Mount Heale Hut. (© DGBI)Essential Information for walkersThe 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 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. Open fires are completely banned. Bring your own gas cooker for campgrounds. Huts have gas cooking facilities.Dogs and other domestic animals are not allowed on DOC campgrounds, huts, or any conservation land. These areas are near wildlife and home to endangered birds like the pateke/brown teal duck. See page 29 for rules.Waste. All DOC campgrounds and huts follow a “Pack In, Pack Out” policy for waste. This means you must take your rubbish with you as there are no bins available at campgrounds, huts, or tracks. Purchase the orange council rubbish bags and the clear bags for recycling from any store on Aotea/Great Barrier Island. 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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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 in Okupu, 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.NorthHarataonga 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, or start here and finish at the campground. 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|Just south of Port FitzRoy. A 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. It takes you along Aotea Stream, through regenerative bush and a 100m climb with expansive views of the Hauraki gulf. Short Walks āAND 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 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 same 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 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 (usually slippery) 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 HovenVicky Kyan ā Nature Bathing ā Flower Essence TherapyCreated her home-based Nature therapies business WaiOra Wellbeing in 2014. She has been practicing NZ native Flower essence therapy for over 30 years. Her passion is in helping others to reconnect to themselves to each other and Nature, one of the ways she provides this is through her Wellbeing Wander walks, a mixture of simple, sometimes playful and sometimes deeply reflective sensory invitations. This leaves her clients feeling deeply relaxed, rejuvenated, re-inspired and reconnected with a deeper sense of belonging to something greater than themselves. She pioneered the practice of Forest Bathing in Australasia as the first certified Guide outside of USA and Japan in 2015, and as Trainer and Mentor to the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides (ANFT) since 2016. Her deep love of this practice and vision inspired her to take this practice out of the forests and onto the beaches and shorelines of Aotea - a world first. See Vicky’s additional oerings such as wellbeing retreats and stays through her website below.Contact: www.waiorabeachretreat.nz | Email: vicky@gbi.nz |Phone: +64 27 3838300VISITOR GUIDE | 27

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DOC 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. No camping. 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. No camping.Campgrounds - DOC & PrivateAkapoua, 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 āAND CampgroundsDepartment of Conservation huts and campgroundsMust be booked online and 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.doc.govt.nz/online-bookingsMountain Biking 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. See page 29 for more details of these tracks. Mountain bikes are not permitted on other DOC walking tracks.Mountain bikes can be booked for travel with Barrier Air or on the ferry with SeaLink . There is no mountain bike hire on the island. Electric motorbikes - Motubikes are available to hire from Claris and are a great way to explore the island but cannot be used on the mountain bike tracks.

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Bringing your pet on holidayThe only places you can walk your dog under control 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 27 for details. 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 the island. Contact Auckland Council or DOC to enquire. Dog Walking Rules Many of the oshore islands in the Hauraki Gulf, including Aotea Great Barrier Island, are havens for native birds and lizards. Cats, dogs and other pets can easily cause harm to wildlife in these sanctuaries. It is an oence to bring turtles and exotic parrots to Aotea Great Barrier Island. Pet goldfish must be securely contained and never released into waterways.The best thing you can do is leave your pet at home.If you really must bring your cat on holiday, please look at the advice to the right on steps you can take to help protect the local wildlife and your cat. If you do need to bring your dog on holiday with you, ensure you obey any signage around where they can be taken. A list of where they are allowed on beaches can be found below. You’ll also find a list of dog friendly walking tracks on page 29. LOVE YOUR CAT, LOVE WILDLIFE?Aotea is home to rare and endangered native species. To protect them, feral cat control is underway across the island. Here are some tips for keeping companion cats and our taonga species safe:Aotea Cat-alogue is used by field staff to help identify owned cats during feral cat control operations. To register your cat email biosecurity@aklc.govt.nzIf visiting the island, consider leavingyour cat at home*Put a collar on your cat for easy ID, thisalso helps reduce predationDesex and keep your cat inside at nightMicrochip your catRegister your cat in the Aotea Cat-alogue *Under the RPMP 2020-2030 cats transported to Aotea must be microchipped, or with a named addressed collar and registered www.animalregister.co.nz/ If you are looking for pet friendly accommodation, most booking platforms will show this availability. Send us an email on info@dgbi.co.nz for recommendationsMedlands 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.comVISITOR GUIDE | 29

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Available at shops on the islandand online: greatbarrierislandbeeco.co.nzMANUKA HONEYBODY CARE SUN PROTECTIONGuided by Vicky Kyan (ANFT cert. guide and trainer)www.naturebathing.nz |+64 9 4290 129 | +64 27 383 8300|Nature Bathing Experiences. Gentle guided Wellbeing Wanders and activities that support health and nature connection. Globally awarded, locally made.DISTILLERY TOURS BY APPOINTMENT 0274752637 ISLANDGIN.COM

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The Aotea Food Resilience Project - “Grow Food Aotea” is enhancing local food production, accessibility and sustainability, ensuring food security and supporting healthy people and place on Aotea. We welcome everyone to get involved. Ways to get involved Community Gardens - Growing, Composting, Sharing, EnjoyingThe Oruawharo Community garden is the most accessible of our community gardens, located next to the St Johns Church, at Medlands. It is a place where you are welcome to visit and sit awhile to enjoy the colour and life of nature, to wander and to forage for interesting and nutritious salad greens, edible flowers and more. Koha to support the gardens by way of volunteering time or a donation to the gardens (koha box and info on the back garden shed) is welcomed. On a Friday morning, you will generally find Saskia, the garden coordinator, and volunteers working away in the garden. Everyone is welcome to join in, its a great way to get to know our community and way of life. Composting, Recycling and LetoversGardening is a fantastic way to create a circular economy and ensure any food waste is returned to the soil to support a healthy, growing environment. By dropping your food waste to the community garden compost bins (no fish or meat scraps or general garden waste) or to Anamata where all food and green garden waste is accepted, you ensure that the goodness from it is returned to the soils of Aotea. If you have any surplus fresh produce or non perishable food, a community pantry or patakakai at the front of the garden, is there to enable you to share it to others. There is also one at Okiwi and Mulberry Grove Schools. Surplus canned food can also be dropped at the airport. Grow FOOD AOTEAWorkshopsWorkshops on a range of topics from growing to preserving are oered throughout the year, although more oten, in the quieter winter months. Workshops are listed on greatbarrier.co.nz and foodresilienceaotea.nz. Everyone is welcome to attend these workshops on a first booked basis. Markets, Stalls & Honesty BoxesThe Aotea Growers and Makers Market celebrates local creativity in the gardens, kitchens, studios, and nurseries of Aotea. It is usually on the first Saturday of the month, between 10m and 2pm, at the Claris Conference Centre on Whangaparapara road at the Claris Sports Club. There is plenty of parking, toilets on site, and all stalls are under cover so no need to dodge raindrops. Please bring cash. There is no card payment facility on site.Around public holidays these markets can combine with bigger market days, like at Labour weekend, New Years Picnic and Easter. Check for the next market date on the events page of greatbarrier.co.nz or the foodresilienceaotea.nz website. Signs will be placed out on market days. Local produce is oten available from roadside honesty boxes. Keep an eye out on your travels for these unique little stalls where you may find free range eggs to salad greens, root vegetables, flowers and more. ©Auckland Council©Jordan Ranson ©Jordan Ranson VISITOR GUIDE | 31

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Jewels of Aotea - Nga Kahurangi o Aotea As an isolated island in the Hauraki Gulf, Aotea is home to many rare and endemic species including banded rail, takoketai/black petrel, NZ dotterel, North Island kaka, kakariki/red-crowned parakeet, pateke/brown teal duck, niho taniwha/chevron skink and kakahi/freshwater mussels. Korora/little blue penguin, manta ray and occasionally green turtles can be found o the coast of Aotea and Mahuki, an o-shore islet boasts New Zealand’s largest takapu/Australasian gannet colony.Pests of Aotea - Nga karearea o Aotea Many pests present on the mainland are not established on Aotea. Conversely, some of the flora and fauna extinct elsewhere have managed to survive on the island. Aotea has no possums, mustelids, hedgehogs, Norway rats, feral goats, or freshwater pest fish. A big eort is put into managing pest plants and animals, marine and freshwater pests and protecting wildlife through responsible pet ownership.Protecting our Natural EnvironmentThere are many environmental protection and restoration projects around Aotea. Auckland Council manage contractors to undertake high risk pest plant surveillance, low incidence and site led weed programs, along with Argentine/Darwins ant, rodent, feral cat, and rabbit control in high value biodiversity areas. Surveillance for marine and freshwater pests is also carried out.Aotea Ecology VisionThe Aotea Ecology Vision project supports the community to protect, enrich and restore the island’s ecosystems. Smaller localised projects such as Oruawharo Medlands Ecovision (OME), the Okiwi Community Ecology Project (OCEP), the Awana Restoration Project and Okupe Ecology Group are led by locals and focus on reducing predatory pest numbers, improving breeding grounds for native birds, and restoring waterways, sand dunes and wetlands. Tu Mai TaongaThe mana whenua led Tu Mai Taonga project aims to protect and restore native species and ecosystems in Te Paparahi, Northern Aotea through feral cat removal and intensified rat control. Sanctuaries and the Aotea Great Barrier Environmental TrustGlenfern Sanctuary, the gateway to pest-free Kotuku Peninsula in Port Fitzroy is surrounded by a 2km long predator-proof fence and is open daily for the public to explore. Windy Hill Sanctuary in the South of Aotea works to increase biodiversity and has created a model of ecological restoration on private land. The Aotea Great Barrier Environmental Trust supports various local projects including the annual Aotea Bird Count and the Aotea Trap Library which encourages participation in backyard trapping, providing free rat traps and peanut butter.Ecology AānDā Conservation Our Treasures āAND 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 WilksPāteke (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 BannisterMotu Community NurseryA local community plant nursery has been established to supply plants for projects and properties, specialising in natives for reforestation, waterway restoration and to create habitat and 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 also prevents the spread of unwanted pest plants and animals to Aotea and is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.eco-sourced native plantsPlanting & Plant guidancerestoration, wetlands & waterwaysnurseries in Okiwi & medlandsvisit during opening hours or contact us for appointment, orders, enquiriesMotuCommunityNursery@gmail.comFacebook: Motu Community NurseryLive from early 2025Motucommunitynursery.nzMobula Birostris (Oceanic Manta Ray). Tikapa-Moana - Te Moananui-ā-Toi is considered one of Aotearoa’s hotspots for manta rays. High numbers are spotted in the waters between Hauturu (Little Barrier), Aotea, Hen and Chicken Islands, and Mokohinau Islands. © Lydia Green

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Our Treasures āAND TaongaHelpful contacts:Auckland Biosecurity Team biosecurity@aklc.govt.nzDepartment of Conservation Hotline 0800 362 468Bird Rescue (Karen Walker) 09 4290 478 Report Suspected Avian Influenza 0800 80 99 66Report a Pest pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz Threats to WildlifeFeral Cats. Feral cats are controlled on Aotea. They are expert hunters with a diverse diet including native species. They eat adult birds, chicks, eggs, geckos and skinks. 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.Red-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.nzInvasive weeds such as Climbing Asparagus and Kahili Ginger destroy our native plant communities and transform the natural landscapes that make Aotea unique. Know what you are planting, buy local and plant natives. Pest plant seed can travel in soil, materials, and equipment. © Sam HappyGET 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 | 33

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Protecting the Hauraki GulfVisit: 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 sh on Aotea. Pest sh prey on native species and modify aquatic ecosystems. Do not bring freshwater sh 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 shing 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 to the right. STOP EXOTIC CAULERPA SEAWEEDIf you can’t bag it and bin it safely, put it back where it came from.For more information visit www.biosecurity.govt.nz/caulerpaConservation 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. PROTECT OUR HAURAKI GULFClose all food in sealed containersCheck your belongings for pestsClean your gear and/or boat before you goVisit ourauckland.nz/haurakigulf to learn more from Auckland Council.

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Self contained rooms and cottages735 Whangaparapara Road Ph: 09 429 0488www.greatbarrierlodge.co.nzVISITOR GUIDE | 35

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OPEN EVERYDAY FROM SUNRISE TO SUNSET20 Glenfern Road, Port Fitzroy 09 4290 091 Discover the natural beauty of Glenfern Sanctuary.Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or on a family adventure, visit us for an unforgettable experience. Glenfern Sanctuary is a haven where nature thrives and tranquility reigns. Visit us to experience conservation in action, how we protect local native species and their habitats. Hear the birdsong.We welcome you to stay at our historic homesteads, Fitzroy House or Glenfern Cottage, in the heart of the Sanctuary. Bookings online at www.glenfern.org.nz2KM WALKING LOOPopen 7 daysfree for visitorsVISIT THE greatest little oFF Grid NATIVE sanctuary in the world. GLENFERN.ORG.NZ23133 Glenfern_press_ad_210x297_Final.indd 123133 Glenfern_press_ad_210x297_Final.indd 1 1/12/23 7:28 PM1/12/23 7:28 PM