Tīkapa Moana o Hauraki / the Hauraki Gulf and its islands are pretty special — they’re home to rare and endangered wildlife like the black petrel, tūturiwhatu/NZ dotterel, oi/grey-faced petrel, pāteke/brown teal, wētāpunga and chevron skinks. Some of these amazing species live nowhere else in the world!

Whether you live on the islands or are just visiting, we all play a part in keeping these places safe and pest-free. Even the smallest stowaway can cause real harm to the native plants and animals.

So before heading to the terminal, please take a moment to check and clean your gear — make sure there’s no dirt, soil, or any uninvited guests tagging along.

We are proud to be an approved Pest-Free Operator and hope that you will help us on this mission too.

Why do you need to check your gear?

The Hauraki Gulf is a nationally significant marine park, home to many of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered species—including tuatara, takahe, shore plover, and kiwi. Many islands are pest-free or partially pest-free, providing vital habitats for these species and supporting natural recovery efforts. Pests such as rats, mice, insects, weeds, and soil-borne diseases can be inadvertently transported via footwear, gear, or boats, threatening these precious ecosystems. 

There are a few simple things you can do before your trip to help protect the special islands we travel to:

• Pack all food in sealed plastic containers with lids, and tape up any cardboard boxes—just to make sure no sneaky pests get in during the journey.

• Give your shoes and gear a quick clean to remove any soil or dirt.

• Check your camping or overnight gear carefully—especially if it’s been in storage for a while.

• If you’re bringing plants, potting mix or seedlings, double-check for any unwanted hitchhikers.

• Once you’re packed, try to keep your gear and food sealed until you arrive.