FerryConnect

New Zealand

Auckland → Rotoroa Island

Explore Group’s ferry from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour to Rotoroa Island, a predator-free wildlife sanctuary in the Hauraki Gulf, takes 75 minutes each way. It leaves at 9:15am every day, with a second 11:30am sailing at weekends and on public holidays, and returns to Auckland in the late afternoon.

⏱ 75m🚢 1 operator📅 Mon–Fri 9:15am; Sat, Sun and public holidays 9:15am and 11:30am (Explore Group)
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Auckland to Rotoroa Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Auckland to Rotoroa Island takes 75m across the Hauraki Gulf, operated by Explore Group. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: mon–Fri 9:15am; Sat, Sun and public holidays 9:15am and 11:30am (Explore Group).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-10-29.

Sources: exploregroup.co.nz · 12go.asia · How we verify

Return crossing: Rotoroa Island to Auckland

Explore Group also sails Rotoroa Island to Auckland, taking 75m. The return ferry reaches Auckland at 5:35pm (4:35pm on Fridays).

Auckland to Rotoroa Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Daily at 9:15am, plus 11:30am at weekends and on public holidays

Published departure times

  • 09:15
  • 11:30

Return: The return ferry reaches Auckland at 5:35pm (4:35pm on Fridays).

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Explore Group timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Explore Group Rotoroa Island ferry page. Verified 2026-10-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Auckland and Rotoroa Island

📐 21 Nautical Miles
Auckland⇄Rotoroa Island
⏱ 75m · 📐 21 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Explore Group75mCruise boat

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

21 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The ferry leaves from Explore’s booking kiosk in Viaduct Harbour, a short walk from Britomart station in central Auckland.

Tips for the Auckland to Rotoroa Island Crossing

  • Overnight stays on the island are run by Rotoroa Island Trust; return ferries for overnight stays are booked through Explore’s reservations team.

Related Ferry Crossings

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Auckland to Rotoroa Island?
75 minutes each way, according to Explore Group.
What time does the Rotoroa Island ferry leave Auckland?
At 9:15am Monday to Friday, and at 9:15am and 11:30am on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The return arrives back in Auckland at 5:35pm (4:35pm on Fridays), giving 3 hours 35 minutes to 5 hours 50 minutes on the island.
How much is the Rotoroa Island ferry?
Explore Group charges $110 for an adult (16+), $55 for a child aged 5 to 15 and $275 for a family pass (2 adults and 2 children); under-5s travel free.
Can I take my dog or bike to Rotoroa Island?
No. Pets, bicycles, scooters and skateboards are not permitted on the island, to protect its wildlife. Registered service dogs need to be arranged with Rotoroa Island Trust before your visit.
How often does the Auckland to Rotoroa Island ferry sail?
Daily at 9:15am, plus 11:30am at weekends and on public holidays. This is the pattern published in the Explore Group Rotoroa Island ferry page (checked 2026-10-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Auckland to Rotoroa Island?
Explore Group operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Auckland to Rotoroa Island ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Auckland to Rotoroa Island ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
How far is Auckland from Rotoroa Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 21 nautical miles (roughly 39 km).