Access

The information centres in Russell and Paihia can advise on the tour operators who run boat services to the island.

Track

The track is even and climbs to a lookout platform. The final section has been aided with elaborate wooden steps.

Geology

Motuarohia Island was once two separate islands, which are now joined by a tombolo, or sandspit. On the southern side is an uninterrupted beach, which stretches the length of the sandspit. On the northern side three shallow lagoons enclosed by rocky islets have deeply scalloped the coastline so the beaches back onto the southern beach. The lagoons are ideal for snorkelling and DoC have constructed an interpretive snorkel trail with underwater plaques.

European History

The island is also called Roberton Island and is named after John Roberton, who lived here from 1839. He purchased the island from chiefs Warerahi, Meko and Rewa, built a house and established a farm. After drowning in 1840, a fate coincidentally shared by his five brothers, his widow stayed on the island.

With a servant named Thomas Bull, she looked after Motuarohia, her three children and Maketu, the son of a Kororareka chief. A moody and lazy boy, proud of his high standing and noble lineage, he resented their rebuking after instances of mischief. He killed all five island residents and for his murderous deed was taken to Auckland and hanged.

On 29th November 1769, Captain Cook and his men landed on Motuarohia. He noted the island was numerously populated and substantially cultivated. On being surrounded by a large party of threatening Maori, Cook ordered a shot to be fired at the young chief leading the party, causing them to retreat.