As my time on Waiheke Island comes to an end, I must acknowledge the amazing and fantastic hospitality of Johanna and Michael. They have been the most gracious of hosts, thoughtful to every detail, helping to organize tours, trips, transportation, important things to see and do, delicious meals, laundry and even introducing me to rugby. We’ve been a cohesive unit…all for one and one for all…with lots of fun and laughter. Without them, I would likely not have considered this trip at all. My heartfelt thanks, Johanna and Michael.

And now on to the next adventure that J&M organized for yesterday: a day trip to Motuihe Island, a small island in the Hauraki Gulf that is very close to Waiheke Island.

To get to Motuihe, we took the ferry to Auckland from Waiheke and then a ferry back to Motuihe. There aren’t inter-island ferries and for this island there are only four trips per year. Motuihe is a recreation reserve with no services and has one ranger that tends to things. Camping is allowed. Conservation efforts are in place to replant native plant species and release some rare birds such as kiwi, saddlebacks and red-fronted parakeets. .

This island has quite a varied history: it was first a Maori settlement; then it purchased to be used as a farm; then it was a quarantine station for ships that had anyone with illness (scarlet fever and Spanish flu); then during World War I it was an internment camp for Count Felix Von Luckner and his crew (he escaped but was recaptured); it was a children’s health camp; a World War II Naval training base. Now it is reserved for habitat, flora and fauna. Those that tend to the island are working hard to get rid of invasive creatures such as feral cats and rabbits (gone) and the worst: rats, who eat the eggs of ground nesting, flightless birds like kiwis.

Some of the old buildings from the past and graves of those who died of illnesses are still visible but mostly it’s set up for camping or day use. The Norfolk Pines are stunning along with the beaches and forested areas.

Since we brought a picnic with us, we decided to hike around the island a bit and find a nice spot for lunch. We took a trail that led to Calypso Bay…just 600 meters and then another 600 meters (oh, this sounds familiar!). It was well worth however many 600 meters there were because we ended up having our own private South Pacific beach. It felt almost like a movie set, so isolated, yet Auckland is visible across the water.

We set up our lunch, had a delicious meal, did a little bit of exploring and then it was time for badminton! Johanna and Michael bring along rackets and birdies to play badminton wherever they travel so this was our spot. It was challenging due to sun in our eyes and wind but was very fun!

Speaking of sun in our eyes, the weather was beginning to change, clouds coming in and a ring around the sun that Johanna spotted. A cyclone was on its way in, Cyclone Hola.

We finished up lunch and play and walked back to another part of the island where there’s more forest (bush) to look for birds. Michael and Johanna had been here about four years ago and spotted a Kiwi mom and chick (highly unusual for a daytime sighting) so we were hoping for some bird sightings of any kind. We saw some fan tails and saddlebacks, no kiwis. But the sounds in this wooded area were so amazing.

Time flies…and it was time to get back for our ferry return. Such a great day trip and a beautiful island. Thank you Johanna and Michael.

Paradise….