Last updated May 2026
Mana Island Scientific Reserve is a predator-free island about 2 kilometres off the Porirua coast, managed by the Department of Conservation as a scientific reserve. The island is one of New Zealand’s most intensively managed wildlife sanctuaries, home to an extraordinary concentration of threatened species including tuatara, little spotted kiwi, tūturuatu (shore plover), kākāpō and fairy tern. Unlike Matiu/Somes Island or Kapiti Island, Mana Island has strictly limited public access — visits require a DOC permit and are generally reserved for conservation workers, researchers and occasional educational groups.
Practical Information
| Location | Approximately 2km off Porirua coast, northwest of Wellington |
|---|---|
| Access | By boat only; no scheduled public ferry service |
| Public access | Very restricted — DOC permit required; general public visits are not routinely available |
| Permit | Contact DOC Wellington office to enquire about any available access opportunities |
| Entry | Not applicable for general visitors |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
About Mana Island
Mana Island covers approximately 217 hectares and has been predator-free since the eradication of rats and other pests was completed. The island’s isolation and freedom from predators has made it an invaluable refuge for some of New Zealand’s most endangered species. Kākāpō — the world’s heaviest parrot and critically endangered — have been held on Mana Island as part of the national recovery programme. Tūturuatu (shore plover), one of New Zealand’s rarest birds, breeds on the island. Tuatara are abundant, and little spotted kiwi have been successfully reintroduced.
The island’s ecology is of significant scientific interest — it has been extensively studied as a model for island restoration and species reintroduction. The DOC scientific reserve classification reflects the priority given to undisturbed ecological processes over public recreation.
Why Access Is Restricted
The restrictions on public access to Mana Island exist to protect the island’s extraordinarily sensitive wildlife. Many of the species present — particularly kākāpō, tūturuatu and ground-nesting seabirds — are highly vulnerable to disturbance. Even well-intentioned visitors can disrupt breeding behaviour, and the risk of accidentally introducing predators or pathogens from the mainland is a constant concern. The scientific reserve status prioritises the island’s conservation value above visitor experience.
DOC — Mana Island Scientific Reserve has information on the island’s conservation significance, species present and any current access opportunities. Contact DOC Wellington directly for permit enquiries.
FAQ
Can I visit Mana Island?
Public access is very restricted. A DOC permit is required for any visit, and general public visits are not routinely available. Contact the DOC Wellington office to enquire about any access opportunities for educational or research purposes.
Why is Mana Island restricted?
The island is home to some of New Zealand’s most endangered species, including kākāpō and shore plover. Public access is limited to protect this sensitive wildlife from disturbance and to prevent the accidental introduction of pests.
What wildlife lives on Mana Island?
Tuatara, little spotted kiwi, kākāpō, tūturuatu (shore plover), fairy tern and ground-nesting seabirds are among the species present. The island is one of the most species-rich wildlife sanctuaries in the Wellington region.
Is there a ferry to Mana Island?
There is no scheduled public ferry service. Access is by boat for permit holders only.
Where can I see similar wildlife near Wellington?
Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour is accessible by regular ferry and has tuatara, kiwi and penguins. Zealandia in Karori is another excellent option for encountering native wildlife close to the city.
Who manages Mana Island?
The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages Mana Island as a scientific reserve. DOC staff and approved researchers carry out ongoing conservation work on the island.
For accessible island wildlife experiences in the Wellington region, see Wellington Parks and Reserves. Matiu/Somes Island is the best option for a day trip to a harbour island sanctuary.
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