This page contains information about Matakohe-Limestone Island in the Whangarei harbour. This is a nature sanctuary which the public may access by boat and it has some wonderful trails on it.
Updated:
18/05/2012 2:42 p.m.
About the island
Matakohe-Limestone Island in the Whangarei harbour is accessible only by boat. It is a fascinating site with many interesting features.
It was a highly significant site for Māori as a result of its prominent position in the harbour. There are still visible remains of the impressive drains on the northern slopes, which were part of a huge area of gardens, and these can be seen from Beach Road by the Onerahi Boat Club.
The island is also one of the earliest industrial sites in New Zealand. Remains of the works and accommodation structures associated with limestone extraction and production are still there.
The Friends of Matakohe-Limestone Island (FOMLI) have planted many thousands of trees to provide habitat for native species, including kiwi, the giant weta and mutton birds, many of which have been recently introduced.
The island is used as a 'kiwi creche' where young kiwi are liberated to roam until they reach the stage where they can be safely relocated to their permanent home.
It is also a translocation site for the Grey-faced Petrel. More information is available on the FOMLI website.
There is good signage on the island for the kilometres of walking tracks which circumnavigate it.
For more information on the tracks and facilities on Matakohe-Limestone Island Society, follow the link below.
Matakohe-Limestone Island website. Opens in a new window.