Step foot on an island full of history. Learn about the copper mines, walk through the Mansion House and read about how it came to be. Away from the mainland, Kawau Island makes a great getaway and a fantastic day trip. The island has 80 close-knit residents who take pride in their independence and resourcefulness. Head out on a walk, lay by the beach or go on a cruise.
Things to do on Kawau Island
Mansion House – after paying a $4 entrance fee you can walk through this historic house which is full of furniture and items from the Victorian era.
Walks – there are walks ranging from 10 minutes to 2 hours – go see the copper mine, walk through Redwood trees or relax by one of the beaches.
Beaches – there are lots of little bays to explore. Bring a book and picnic and relax by the water or go for a swim on a warm day.
Cafes and restaurants – there are a few different options for dining around the island. Note that they all need to be accessed by boat. If you’re heading to the Mansion House there is a cafe on the grounds.
Cruise – join the Royal Mail Run Cruise as they go around the island and deliver mail to the residents. This is a great way to see the island and if you’re lucky, you may be able to spot some dolphins and penguins.
Accommodation
If you’re wanting to stay a little longer there are baches (holiday homes) and bed and breakfast accommodation available. With no roads or cars, this is a great island to get away from it all and get back into nature.
Remember
- Bring walking shoes, water and some sunblock in summer.
- Take your time to really enjoy this place.
- Jump in – there are lots of great beaches along many of the walking tracks so don’t forget your togs.
- Bring a picnic or if you didn’t have time to prepare something, stop in at the cafe.
- Take your rubbish with you. There are no rubbish bins.
- There are no dogs allowed on the island to protect the kiwi, weka and other wildlife.
Our day trip to Kawau Island
We had been meaning to visit this beautiful island for a long time after it being recommended by family. It was a warm winter’s day, too cold for swimming but just the right temperature for a nice wander around the island.
The boat ride is a fun experience and if you’re lucky, dolphins may come accompany you. We were totally thrilled to see them! We first spotted them on our first mail drop stop off at a little bay on Kawau Island. They seemed to be interested in a stingray which was heading towards the shore, we also spotted a huge starfish. Everyone was absolutely delighted to see them and as we headed off they followed and swam under and next to the boat, jumping out of the water every now and then before heading in another direction.
If you’re on the Royal Mail Run Cruise, you’ll drop in at little bays, drop off the mail at the wharf and let any passengers out. There are houses by the water and locals going about their day, kind of gets you wondering what island life would be like, a place where everyone knows everyone and life slows down. Seems like a nice life to live.
The Mansion House comes in view, hop off and be greeted by the locals – peacocks. You’ll see a few of them wandering the beautiful grounds.
Kawau Island Cafe
There’s a little cafe right by the Mansion House if you’re feeling hungry. The grounds are impeccable.
Mansion House
Here’s a look into the Mansion House. They’re open from 12 – 4pm and it’s just $4 to enter. The ranger is friendly and knowledgable, go to him for all of your raging questions.
This guy was really living the dream. Fall asleep listening to the waves, wake up to the early morning sea breeze and views of the water.
It’s just like you’ve walked back in time. Every room looks just like it would have years ago.
Walks
A popular walk is to the Coppermine. It’s about a two hour round trip. The kids will love exploring the tunnels and checking out the old Coppermine. There are several bays along the way that you can walk down to.
If you’ve still got time before the ferry arrives, there are a few short walks you can do, wander the Mansion House grounds and garden (practice walking on the wooden stilts, there’s an art to it – keep them close to your body and you’re feet glued to them to become one) or go for a swim at one of the nearby beaches – great if it’s a warm day.
Conclusion
I would totally recommend Kawau Island to families, this little island is just adorable, with its little beach houses, beautiful gardens and crazy looking trees that you won’t find in Auckland, it offers something more. It’s also a great destination to go during the summer, hang out at the beach and watch life go by.
