FerryConnect

New Zealand

Auckland → Tiritiri Matangi Island

Explore Group’s day ferry to Tiritiri Matangi, a predator-free open wildlife sanctuary where takahē, kōkako and saddleback roam, calls at Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula on the way.

⏱ About 1h 20m🚢 1 operator📅 1 return trip Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays
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Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island ferry at a glance

The ferry from Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island takes About 1h 20m across the Hauraki Gulf, operated by Explore Group. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: 1 return trip Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays.

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 2026-09-29.

Sources: exploregroup.co.nz · at.govt.nz · How we verify

Return crossing: Tiritiri Matangi Island to Auckland

Explore Group also sails Tiritiri Matangi Island to Auckland, taking About 1h 20m. The ferry returns to Auckland at 4:00pm on weekdays and 5:20pm at weekends, giving about 4–6 hours on the island.

Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island ferry timetable & sailing pattern

One day trip Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays, all year

Published departure times

  • 9:00am (Wed–Fri)
  • 8:30am (weekends and public holidays)

Return: The ferry returns to Auckland at 4:00pm on weekdays and 5:20pm at weekends, giving about 4–6 hours on the island.

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 Direct Ferries →

Source: Explore Group Tiritiri Matangi ferry page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Auckland and Tiritiri Matangi Island

📐 14 Nautical Miles
Auckland⇄Tiritiri Matangi Island
⏱ About 1h 20m · 📐 14 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ All operators, one booking

Ready to cross from Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island?

Book your crossing with Direct Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Explore Group1h 20m (25m from Gulf Harbour)Passenger ferry

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

14 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The ferry calls at Gulf Harbour Ferry Terminal (about 25 minutes from the island).
  • Biosecurity rules: bring food in sealable containers, keep to tracks and take all rubbish home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog to Tiritiri Matangi?
No. Dogs are prohibited on the island.
How long is the ferry from Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island?
The crossing typically takes About 1h 20m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi Island ferry sail?
One day trip Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays, all year. This is the pattern published in the Explore Group Tiritiri Matangi ferry page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Auckland to Tiritiri Matangi 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 Tiritiri Matangi 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 Tiritiri Matangi 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 Tiritiri Matangi Island by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 14 nautical miles (roughly 26 km).