It’s been over 15 years since Helen last visited Tiritiri Matangi Island. Since then, the thousands of young native bush plants have grown to a lush environment (restoration began in 1983). And the bird song has intensified as the protected birds carry on with their breeding without having to be concerned about predators. This island is an example of how man can repair our environment.

Our party opted for the guided tour and our volunteer guide Anna educated us about the trees and the birds as we made our way up the Wattle Track to the Visitors Centre, shop and lighthouse. We ate our picnic lunch at the table provided. (There is an option to have your picnic supplies driven up to that point to save carrying them with you.)

After lunch we ambled back down to the ferry via the Kawerau Track. It was magic to stop in a bush clad gully to hear and see so many birds in the magnificent trees. My favourite stopping point was by the 800-1000 year old pohutukawa tree – there were many tui birds calling.

This was a great day out and we are planning to come back in the spring to see the trees in bloom.

For information about how to get to Tiritiri Matangi and what to see, click here.  The Department of Conservation has information and maps here. You may wish to ‘Like’ the Tiritiri Matangi Facebook page.  (Click on photos below to enlarge).