Motuara Island |
Administered by Department of Conservation, Motuara Island is predator free and regular tourist vessels land parties here at the jetty. The well maintained track leads up to a viewing platform offering uninterrupted views of Cook Strait. The island is home to a variety of native bird life, insects and lizards. The inquisitive South Island robin will forage in your footsteps with fantail, the bell bird is evident with its distinctive call but you may also be fortunate enough to see or hear the endangered saddleback and kakariki. This is also a nursery for young Okarito brown kiwi chicks.The Maud Island frog and Marlborough green gecko also enjoy the safe haven. Blue penguins come home to roost each evening and some viewing nest boxes have been setup where you can take a peak.