Moutohorā/Whale Island is one of Aotearoa’s best-kept secrets. Accessible via guided tour only, this incredible wildlife sanctuary homes a number of New Zealand’s rare and endangered plants, birds and reptiles.
While discovering Moutohorā, you can spot dolphins, little blue penguins, curious seals and native birds including saddleback/tieke, kakariki/red-crowned parakeet, bellbirds, tui, and grey warbler, many of which are endangered or seldom seen on the New Zealand mainland.
Located nine kilometres from Whakatāne, the 143-hectare remnant volcano is under the protection of the Department of Conservation (DOC), with highly-restricted access.
Moutohorā provides exceptional diving and snorkelling opportunities, particularly around Seafire, a ship especially sunk to create an artificial reef.
Local operators provide fully guided tours to the pest-free island.
