Motukawao Islands facts for kids
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Māori: Motukawao
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Motukawao Islands and Hauraki Gulf from Amodeo Bay, near Colville.
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| Geography | |
| Location | Waikato region |
| Coordinates | 36°41′24″S 175°24′00″E / 36.690°S 175.400°E |
| Administration | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
The Motukawao Islands are a group of small islands in New Zealand. They are located in the Hauraki Gulf, off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. These islands are the northernmost in this area. They are about 5 kilometres (3 miles) southwest of a town called Colville. No people live on these islands.
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Discovering the Motukawao Islands
The Motukawao Islands are a special part of New Zealand's natural beauty. They are known for their quiet, untouched environment. These islands are important for wildlife and local history.
What are the Motukawao Islands?
This group includes several small islands. The two largest are Motuwi Island and Ngamotukaraka Island. Other islands in the group are Moturua Island and Motukaramarama Island. Each island contributes to the unique ecosystem of the Hauraki Gulf.
Who Cares for the Islands?
Although uninhabited, landing on the islands is not permitted without prior consent from the Ngamotuaroha Trust, which works to protect the islands from rodents and pollution. A trust is like a group of people who manage something important for others. In this case, the Trust looks after the islands for their Māori owners.
For example, the trustees completed an environmental cleanup program on the islands. This "Jobs for Nature" program finished before July 2026. It helped keep the islands healthy and clean.
Home to Amazing Birds
One of the Motukawao Islands, Motukaramarama Island, is very important for birds. It is located about 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles) from the coast. Like the other islands, no people live on Motukaramarama Island.
The Australasian Gannet's Nesting Spot
BirdLife International has named Motukaramarama Island an Important Bird Area. This means it is a crucial place for bird populations. About 3,500 pairs of Australasian gannets use this island as a nesting site. These large seabirds build their nests and raise their young here. It is a busy and noisy place during nesting season! Protecting this island helps these beautiful birds thrive.
