About Urupukapuka

The first settlers to come to Urupukapuka Island about 1000 years ago were distant ancestors of the modern Maori. The first Europeans to enter the Bay of Islands were the crew of Captain Cook’s ‘Endeavour’ in 1769. At that time a thriving Maori community lived on the island.

There were Kainga (villages) of extended families, living in all the large sheltered bays. Urupukapuka Island has eight significant Maori Pa sites which form an archaeological walk around the entire island.

Zane Grey lived on Urupukapuka during the 1920’s, writing and fishing. He established big game fishing in the Bay of Islands, and attained many world records.

Today the Otehei Bay Resort welcomes you to enjoy a meal in the restaurant, stay the night in Zane Grey’s original cottage or one of our island cabins, enjoy the island walks or delight in the tranquil waters from a kayak. Stay just a few hours, or as long as you like to really experience the island lifestyle.

Project Island Song - Ipipiri/Eastern Bay of Islands restoration
The islands of the eastern Bay of Islands are an iconic destination for New Zealand and international visitors. These scenic landscapes are rich in our history and should be complemented by healthy island ecosystems. Download an Adobe Acrobat pdf for more information on how we protect this sanctuary.
The vision of Project Island Song is an archipelago of islands rich in native flora and fauna for all to enjoy. The islands will sing again.