Motukawanui Island facts for kids
| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cavalli Islands |
| Coordinates | 35°0′0″S 173°56′30″E / 35.00000°S 173.94167°E |
| Area | 3.545 km2 (1.369 sq mi) |
| Highest elevation | 177 m (581 ft) |
| Administration | |
Motukawanui Island is the biggest island in the Cavalli Islands group. It is located about four kilometers northeast of Matauri Bay. This area is in northern New Zealand, just north of the Bay of Islands. The island covers an area of 355 ha (880 acres).
Island History
Motukawanui Island was once home to many Māori. When Captain Cook visited the area in 1769, he found a large population. Evidence like old pits, terraced areas, and garden sites show that many people lived here long ago.
Island Geography
The highest point on Motukawanui Island is 177 meters tall. Some parts of the island were used for farming until 1974. Now, these grassy areas are slowly returning to their natural state. Many native trees like kanuka and manuka are growing. They help protect younger native plants as they grow.
Island Coastline and Marine Life
The waters around Motukawanui Island are full of different kinds of marine life. Papatara Bay is a safe place for boats to anchor, even when the weather is rough. Most of the island's coast is rocky. However, there are also some nice sandy and shingle beaches to explore.
Island Wildlife
Motukawanui Island is an important place for the North Island brown kiwi. These special birds are able to breed and thrive here. This is because the island was cleared of animals that hunt kiwis. These predators included possums and mustelids. Removing these animals helps the kiwi population grow safely.
