Motuara Island Sanctuary
A predator-free haven in Queen Charlotte Sound, teeming with native birds and offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Hear the birds sing!
Motuara Island Sanctuary
Best Time
Hear the birds sing!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A predator-free haven in Queen Charlotte Sound, teeming with native birds and offering breathtaking panoramic views.
"Awesome spot to get great views of the sounds and experience beautiful bush and birds."
🐦 Listen to the Birds
The island is alive with native birdsong. Take a moment to just listen and enjoy the natural symphony.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the viewpoint has steps. Comfortable footwear will make the ascent and descent much easier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Predator-Free Bird Sanctuary
Home to vibrant native birds like the South Island robin and bellbird. Listen to their songs in this protected haven.
Panoramic Queen Charlotte Sound Views
Summit Viewpoint
Ascend to the top for breathtaking vistas of the Marlborough Sounds. A perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery.
Marine Protected Area
Explore the waters surrounding the island, a sanctuary for marine life. Keep an eye out for penguins and other sea creatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Birdsong
The Walk to the Viewpoint
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐦 Listen to the Birds
The island is alive with native birdsong. Take a moment to just listen and enjoy the natural symphony.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the viewpoint has steps. Comfortable footwear will make the ascent and descent much easier.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Don't forget your camera!
🐧 Look for Penguins
If you're lucky, you might spot penguins in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out near the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐦 Listen to the Birds
The island is alive with native birdsong. Take a moment to just listen and enjoy the natural symphony.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk to the viewpoint has steps. Comfortable footwear will make the ascent and descent much easier.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Don't forget your camera!
🐧 Look for Penguins
If you're lucky, you might spot penguins in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out near the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Motuara Island's stunning views and vibrant birdlife, calling it an 'awesome spot' and a 'beautiful piece of paradise'. The predator-free sanctuary offers a unique chance to see native birds up close. Some note the walk to the viewpoint can be a bit rushed depending on group timing, but the scenic rewards are well worth the effort.
"Awesome spot to get great views of the sounds and experience beautiful bush and birds. The walk up to the viewpoint isn't too bad but can be rushed depending on time of arrival and size of your group. We enjoyed a few nice scenic spots on the way which made it easier but still a fast pace"
Phil Pasco
"A small predictor-free island turned into a bird sanctuary with a protective marine area that surrounds the island. There is a 40-45 min round trip that takes you up to a viewing platform. Some step grades on the walk however, the view from the top is stunning on a fine day. This island is home to penguins and native birds of New Zealand. Well worth the half day visit by boat."
Brian wells
"Tiny island where you're able to see the wildlife in its natural habitat. Worth the visit when you want to see some nice birds or just want to enjoy a short visit on a neighboring island. The island has a nice walkway up a few steps to a viewing platform to view even more birds."
Robin de Bruin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Motuara Island is accessible by boat tours departing from Picton. Several tour operators offer trips that include stops at the sanctuary.
Currently, there are no public ferry services directly to Motuara Island. Boat tours are the primary way to visit.
Booking a wildlife or scenic cruise that includes Motuara Island is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
While possible for experienced kayakers, it's generally recommended to join a boat tour due to the distances and potential sea conditions in the Queen Charlotte Sound.
Travel time varies depending on the tour operator and itinerary, but typically expect a boat journey of 30-60 minutes each way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the island itself is generally included in the price of boat tours. You won't typically need separate admission tickets.
As a natural sanctuary, Motuara Island is accessible during daylight hours when tours are operating. There are no set opening or closing times for the island itself.
The sanctuary is a predator-free zone, and its preservation is often supported by tour operators. There isn't a direct entrance fee for visitors to walk on the island.
Tour prices vary by operator and duration, but expect to pay anywhere from NZD $80 to $200+ for a boat trip that includes Motuara Island.
Independent visits are not common as access is primarily via organized boat tours due to its location in the Marlborough Sounds.
🎫 🐦 Wildlife & Nature
You can expect to see a variety of native New Zealand birds, including South Island robins (kakaruai) and bellbirds (korimako).
Yes, some visitors have reported spotting penguins on or around Motuara Island.
Yes, Motuara Island is a predator-free sanctuary, which allows native bird populations to thrive.
Mornings and late afternoons are often the most active times for birds, but the sanctuary is vibrant throughout the day.
Feeding the wildlife is strictly prohibited to maintain the natural ecosystem and health of the birds.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
There's a 40-45 minute round trip walk to a viewing platform with some stepped sections. It's moderately paced and offers scenic spots.
Most tours allocate about 1-2 hours on the island, which is sufficient for the walk to the viewpoint and wildlife spotting.
Facilities are minimal, typically limited to walking tracks and viewpoints. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving.
The walk has some steps and inclines, so it might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and your camera. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Highlight: The chance to see and hear native birds like the South Island robin is often a huge hit with younger visitors. It's an educational and engaging experience that brings nature to life.
Ensure children stay on marked paths and do not disturb the wildlife. Boat tours to the island are usually family-friendly, making the entire outing enjoyable.🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
The diverse birdlife, coupled with the stunning marine environment, provides a rich experience for anyone passionate about the natural world.Key activities: Focus on the walking tracks to maximize bird sightings and listen for calls. Bring binoculars for a closer look at species like the bellbird and South Island robin.
The marine protected area also offers potential sightings of seals and penguins. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Predator-Free Success Story
The success of the predator-free status means visitors can experience a truly immersive natural environment. The air is filled with the songs of native birds, and sightings are frequent. This protected status is crucial for the survival of many endemic species, offering a glimpse into what New Zealand's ecosystems were like before human settlement and the introduction of invasive predators.
It's a living laboratory and a beautiful escape into pure nature.Conservation Efforts and Visitor Impact
While enjoying the sanctuary, visitors play a role in its preservation. Adhering to guidelines, such as staying on marked paths and not disturbing wildlife, is essential. The ongoing efforts to maintain the predator-free status rely on careful management and public awareness.
Your visit contributes to the appreciation and support for these vital conservation initiatives.Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
Look for birds perched on branches or foraging on the ground.The walk to the summit viewpoint provides a stunning backdrop for landscape photography. Aim to capture the vastness of the Queen Charlotte Sound, the intricate waterways, and the lush green hills. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer dramatic lighting, though access is dependent on tour schedules.
Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive scenery.Best Practices for Wildlife Photography
When photographing wildlife, always maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash, which can disturb the birds.
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