Motu Kaikoura Lodge

Motu Kaikoura is an island reserve on the western coast of Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf, and provides shelter to Fitzroy Harbour. As a scenic reserve, it affords free and open access for the general public. Access is limited geographically, so the site where the buildings are located acts as a focal point where information, refreshment and toilet facilities are available. Public visitors, researchers, volunteers and education groups use the facilities during their visits.

Sadly, one of the main buildings (the “lodge”) was destroyed through arson in 2013. The lodge was simple in structure, but it was nonetheless functional, providing a place for shelter, research, cooking, dining, meeting and socialising. The loss of this community facility has proved a significant constraint on the future management and restoration activities of the island.

Although the lodge was insured, it was insufficient to cover a replacement lodge given the cost of building to current standards. The Trust has been supported through grants from Foundation North and Pub Charity - but even with this support, the total funds still fall short of the total required. The lodge will be built by a team from Architecture+Women NZ, under the guidance of our architects, SGA Ltd. Funds donated will be used to complete the build, and to transport the components to the island.

We hope that you will contribute to this cause, and in doing so help us continue managing and restoring a sanctuary that is part of the network of conservation islands in the Hauraki Gulf.