What We Do
Originally constructed as an Artillery Camp during WWII, our outdoor education camp on Motutapu Island offers a coastal adventure playground located in its own private valley.
We offer a wide range of accommodation options and activities across…
Sea.
Land.
Sky.
A snapshot of our services — we can help you with:
Single pickup and drop off of luggage and equipment.
Troop vehicle available for passenger transport with seating for up to 10 people.
WiFi capabilities
Self-catering kitchen and laundry facilities
Separate accommodation options
Coastal and bush nature walks
Absolute beachfront location
Museum
Resource Room
A wide range of instructor-led and self-led activities
Our guests not only have access to property facilities, but have the luxury of being able to explore more than 3,800 hectares of scenic recreation reserve over both Rangitoto and Motutapu Islands.
Both islands are covered in native flora and fauna and dotted with archaeological, geographical, and environmental marvels.
An Organisation with High Standards and Passionate People.
We are an Outdoors Mark accredited organisation meaning that our safety systems and procedures meet or exceed industry best practice. From the hiring of staff right through to the maintenance of gear, you can rest assured that our systems and practice are of the highest standards.
The Camp’s History
Between 1936 and 1944 the camp facilities at Administration Bay were originally constructed as an Artillery Camp in WWII, serving as barracks for the 6-inch battery personnel and the overall headquarters and administrative centre for the island.
Once the site was decommissioned by the Military it was handed over to be utilised by the youth of New Zealand and has functioned as an outdoor education camp since 1966.
The Camp Today
The camp is located at Administration Bay on the northern shores of Motutapu Island. It encompasses 5 hectares of grounds within the boundaries of the camp. Listed as an A1 Historical site, the buildings are still preserved in their original design, only with maintenance and upgrades to make it a more comfortable and enjoyable facility.
The Motutapu Outdoor Education Camp is located on land administered by the Department of Conservation. This land is dotted with archaeological sites, the remains of the guns, tunnels and bunkers used during WWII, walking tracks, wildlife and the biggest Pohutukawa Forest in the world.
