Kiwi Release on Rotoroa Island

Rotoroa Island Trust are releasing a Kiwi chick on Rotora island, and you’re invited!

One of the most special experiences you can have on Rotoroa Island is being part of our kiwi chick releases. Come and join join in this free event on  Saturday 9th February.

What’s happening:

• 8:45am – Ferry departs downtown Auckland
• 10am – Arrive on Rotoroa Island
• 11am – Short welcome and introduction to kiwi chick (Exhibition Centre, Home Bay)
• 11:30am – Guided nature walk (bookings required). Note this begins 30 min later than usual to accommodate special kiwi release. Chance to explore Rotoroa Island’s walking trails, swimming beaches or spot a number of other threatened species living on Rotoroa
• 3:30pm – Presentation on Operation Nest Egg, the Kiwi recovery programme (Education Room)
• 5:15pm: Ferry departs Rotoroa Island for downtown Auckland

Remember to bring:

• Your own food and plenty of water as there are no shops on the island
•  Walking shoes, sunblock and a sun hat
• If coming by Ferry remember to book your ferry tickets! No need to register for the kiwi release.

Cancellations. While unlikely to cancel unless terrible weather, here’s how you can be sure it’s going ahead. Check Rotora Island’s  Facebook page where they will post a cancellation notification. If you are unsure, please call the island’s duty phone on the morning of the volunteer day: 09 283 0849.

Getting to Rotora Island: 360 Discovery ferries depart from downtown Auckland to Rotoroa Island at 8.45am. The trip takes just over an hour, with a stop-off at Waiheke’s Orapiu wharf on the way to Rotoroa Island. You can purchase Fullers 360 ferry tickets here.