Pakatoa Island facts for kids
Pakatoa Island seen from Rotoroa Island
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| Geography | |
| Location | Auckland Region |
| Coordinates | 36°47′44″S 175°11′37″E / 36.79556°S 175.19361°E |
| Area | 24 ha (59 acres) |
| Administration | |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 2 (caretakers) (2017) |
Pakatoa Island, previously known as Bell's Island is one of many islands in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, covering 24 hectares (59 acres). Purchased in the early 1900s by the Salvation Army it was used as an alcohol treatment centre for men for two years, and later women when a larger facility was constructed on Rotoroa Island.
The island was sold in 1964 and remains one of the few Hauraki Gulf Islands in private ownership. In 2014 was offered for sale for NZD$35 million (approximately US$29 million). Regarded as sensitive coastal property, purchase by a foreign owner would require approval by the Minister of Finance and Minister of Lands under New Zealand's Overseas Investment Act of 2005.
Development on the island includes a tourist resort, a landing strip and a nine-hole golf course. Actor Russell Crowe once worked at the resort in his youth.
History
In the early 1900s the island was used as a place for prisoners and male inebrates. It was managed by the Auckland Salvation Army. Two years later, a larger facility was made on Rotoroa Island for men, and Pakatoa was used for female inebrates. After 1943, it was used as a recreation centre for the elderly.
The island was sold for £5800 on 20 May 1949.
