A 7-day sailing adventure through New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf offers a rich blend of natural beauty, marine life, and history. Beginning at Great Barrier Island’s Port Fitzroy, sailors are welcomed by one of the most sheltered and scenic harbours in the country. The island’s forested hills, waterfalls, and birdlife make it perfect for walks and kayaking before returning to the yacht for a calm evening at anchor. From here, the voyage continues north to the Poor Knights Islands, a marine reserve famous for its volcanic cliffs, underwater caves, and world-class diving and snorkelling. The vibrant reefs, abundant fish, and occasional dolphin or orca sightings make this stop unforgettable.
Heading back south, the journey pauses at Kawau Island, known for its historic Mansion House and tranquil bays, offering a glimpse into New Zealand’s colonial heritage. A short sail brings guests to Moturekareka Island, where the partially submerged wreck of the Rewa creates a unique snorkelling and kayaking playground framed by lush native bush. The voyage concludes at Tiritiri Matangi Island, a wildlife sanctuary alive with rare native birds and coastal trails. This itinerary balances adventure, history, and conservation, creating an enriching week of sailing, discovery, and relaxation on New Zealand’s waters.
Enjoy the comfort of a well-appointed yacht, with home-cooked meals, panoramic coastal views, and time to relax at scenic anchorages. Whether you’re exploring ashore, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or soaking in spectacular sunsets, this voyage offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in one of the world’s most picturesque sailing destinations.
Cruise through New Zealand’s wild northeast coast
Sail from the Hauraki Gulf to the Poor Knights Islands, exploring remote anchorages, offshore reefs, and volcanic islets far from the beaten track.
Swim, snorkel, or paddleboard in pristine bays
Drop anchor in calm coves perfect for snorkelling over reefs, gliding across glassy waters, or simply soaking up the serenity of nature.
Dive into world-class underwater landscapes
Explore the Poor Knights and Mokohinau Islands—renowned for sea caves, arches, and marine life ranging from stingrays to colourful reef fish.
Hike forested trails and windswept ridges
Go ashore at Great Barrier or Tiritiri Matangi to walk through native bush alive with birdsong, or climb to panoramic coastal lookouts.
Encounter dolphins, seabirds, and coastal wildlife
Watch for dolphins riding the bow wave, gannets diving in formation, and endangered birds like kōkako and takahē on predator-free islands.
Step into history at island landmarks
Visit Mansion House on Kawau Island, snorkel around the sunken Rewa at Moturekareka, and learn the conservation story of Tiritiri Matangi.
Gulf Harbour
Full-service marina and perfect launch point for Hauraki Gulf cruising, with quick access to Tiritiri Matangi and Kawau Island.
Located on the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, offering sheltered berths and marina amenities close to Auckland.
Port Fitzroy, Great Barrier Island / Aotea
One of New Zealand’s best all-weather anchorages, surrounded by lush hills and deep bays.
Access to hiking trails like Windy Canyon and Mount Hobson, plus natural hot springs and kauri forests.
Mokohinau Islands
Remote and uninhabited volcanic islets with outstanding visibility for diving and snorkelling.
Dramatic landscapes, seabird colonies, and a sense of complete isolation.
Poor Knights Islands
World-famous marine reserve and top-10 global dive site with lava arches, sea caves, and abundant marine life.
Home to Rikoriko Cave—one of the largest sea caves in the world.
Kawau Island
Historic Mansion House and gardens, once home to Governor Sir George Grey.
Forest walks and copper mine ruins, with peaceful bays and no roads—perfect for exploring by foot or dinghy.
Moturekareka Island
Site of the sunken Rewa shipwreck, now a striking snorkelling site and breakwater.
Calm, clear waters make it an ideal anchorage for paddleboarding and swimming.
Tiritiri Matangi Island
Open sanctuary for rare native birds like kōkako and takahē, with well-marked walking tracks.
Rich in conservation history, this predator-free island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Acting as watch captain (day and night), helming, navigating, checking weather and monitoring AIS and radar and for both traffic and rain squalls. View gallery
Downloading and analysing the latest weather forecasts and calculating best route to destination. View gallery
Navigating, hazard identification, entering waypoints and calculating updated ETA’s. View gallery
Watch roster planning, matching responsibility to experience, crew management and communication. View gallery
Familiarisation of all safety procedures, sail planning, storm preparation planning and abandon ship procedures. View gallery
Advice on how to take responsibility for managing clothing, hydration, sleep and nutrition to maintain your health and well being aboard. View gallery
Planning our arrival and route to safe harbour including timing with daylight (if required), weather factors, navigational hazards, communications / customs and sail/motor arrival plan. View gallery
Hoisting, trimming and reefing both upwind (main, genoas, and jibs) and downwind sails (poled out headsails, spinnakers, gennakers and code 0’s (subject to weather). View gallery
Use of PDF’s (Personal Flotation Devices), PLB’s (Personal Locator Beacons), safety tethers, dan buoy’s, storm drogue, liferaft and any other equipment required to ensure you remain safe in all conditions. View gallery
Coastal exploring offers the thrill of venturing to remote places using a RIB, uncovering hidden gems like pristine reefs, secluded beaches, and winding rivers. Discover shipwrecks teeming with history, indulge in beach combing for unique treasures, and experience the untouched beauty of coastal landscapes. View gallery
Onshore activities include hiking and bushwalking to scenic lookouts, exploring local towns, and discovering the unique charm of each destination. Enjoy cultural immersion through local traditions, relax with games, or uncover hidden gems as you explore islands. View gallery
Dining out offers the chance to enjoy local flavours, explore regional specialties, and experience unique culinary traditions. From seaside cafes to hidden gems, each meal is an opportunity to savour the culture and cuisine of the destination. View gallery
Fishing provides an opportunity to connect with nature, whether casting a line from the shore or exploring deeper waters. Enjoy the thrill of the catch, the serenity of the surroundings, and the chance to bring home a fresh, rewarding meal. View gallery
Exploring historic places offers a glimpse into the past through ancient sites, architectural landmarks, and local stories. These visits bring history to life, connecting you with the culture, traditions, and events that shaped each destination. View gallery
Kayaking allows you to glide through serene waterways, explore hidden coves, and get up close to nature. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to discover rivers, coastlines, and marine life from a unique perspective. View gallery
Snorkelling offers an up-close view of vibrant underwater ecosystems, from colourful coral reefs to fascinating marine life. It's a relaxing and immersive way to explore the wonders beneath the surface of the water. View gallery
Swimming offers refreshing escapes in stunning settings, from crystal-clear bays and tranquil rivers to diving off the back of the boat into azure waters. It's a perfect way to relax and be rejuvenated by nature. View gallery
Wildlife watching offers unforgettable encounters with nature, from observing birds and dolphins to spotting whales, turtles, and sharks. Discover diverse marine life, from playful fish to delicate starfish, in their natural habitats. View gallery
Step aboard Te Kaihopara, a purpose-built South Pacific cruising ketch designed for modern explorers seeking connection, challenge, and discovery at sea. From remote coastlines to open ocean passages, Te Kaihopara delivers comfort, capability, and adventure in equal measure. With a strong, ocean-tested build, hands-on sailing opportunities, and space to relax and reflect, every voyage is a chance to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean and the raw beauty of the natural world.
With $1m spent on a refit, new electronics, a full rewire and the latest safety equipment in 2023, the yacht meets the highest safety standards.
With a generous galley, 4 fridges and a freezer, the yacht is able to be well provisioned for long distance cruising.
With a saloon and wheelhouse that seat up to 16 people, there are ample indoor and outdoor seating choices.
Berth and Cabin and options
Moana Stateroom: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 4 large and 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
Tiritiri Suite: Booking option for couple or up to 3 singles. Private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 1 small port hole window. Private ensuite.
Mokohinau Cabin: Booking option for up to 4 occupants with private ensuite. 240v and 12v power outlets. 2 small port hole windows. Private ensuite.
You can fly directly into Auckland to arrive at the yacht at Gulf Harbour Marina.
Our plan is to return to Gulf Harbour by 2pm on 25 Mar 2027 and you can plan to depart out of Auckland Airport (a 75 minute car ride from the marina) later the same day.
18 Mar 2027
Arrive at the vessel in Gulf Harbour Marina by 10am on day 1.
Crew training and safety familiarisation
Depart Gulf Harbour Marina around 12pm
18 - 24 Mar 2027
Explore a select number of islands in the Hauraki Gulf
25 Mar 2027
Return to Gulf Harbour Marina by 2pm
Depart Auckland after 5pm
Inclusions
Your crew package includes; all meals onboard, crew meals in Auckland and at various stopover islands and ports, accommodation onboard, your Ocean Sailing Expeditions crew shirt, marina fees, the use of a PFD (personal floatation device), PLB (personal locator beacon), and a safety tether. Your bedding, a pillow and towel are also included along with suncream.
Exclusions
Your crew package excludes; accommodation ashore, flights and transport to and from departure and arrival ports, alcohol, toiletries, clothing and wet weather gear. Its always recommended that you book flights with date flexibility incase of unforeseen changes due to weather or schedules. Accommodation options if you want to stay ashore either side of trip: AirBNB, Booking.com, Wotif & HomeAway.
Book and pay
Click Book Now button above to secure your place. Choose from Pay in Full or deposit options. Direct debit from bank account, debit card or credit card options available. Pay in the currency of your choice.
Personalise your payment plan
If you want to set up a payment plan, contact us here and let us know your desired deposit (minimum 10% required) and your preferred payment. You can make up to 18 payments, for the balance. You can choose the frequency and customise each payment amount.
Not ready to pay, but want to secure your place?
Reserve your place onboard today, with no obligation. We’ll send the confirmation details, itinerary, deposit invoice and be sure to answer all your questions, while you finalise your plans before confirming. Reserve here.
100% cancellation guarantee
If you book and then cancel prior to an event, for any reason, 100% of your payment will be issued as a credit, that you can apply to any future event/s. For a full refund of sailing trip, flights and hotel costs, we recommend travel insurance. View Terms & Conditions.
Members
Check for Member's availability here before booking this event, using Members Benefits. When you book Reserve your place here.