Take the main track from the ferry jetty. It’s a bit of a climb up behind the shelter, through a wooded area above the rocky shoreline to the heritage centre. The heritage centre in the old farmhouse on the island has panels on the cultural and natural history of the island, plus a scale model of the island.

From the centre, follow the tractor path behind the building that heads towards the island summit at the centre of the island. You will pass through a large area of replanting, the work of the Ōtamahua / Quail Island Ecological Restoration Trust. The trust and DOC are working in partnership to remove pests, re-plant the island, and re-introduce native wildlife.

When you reach a sign-posted junction, turn left. This will lead you past the dog kennels and then down to Whakamaru Beach.