Top Attractions in Kawau Island

Kawau Island Essentials

Kawau Island in the Hauraki Gulf features a blend of colonial history and maritime culture. The central landmark is Mansion House, the former residence of Sir George Grey, surrounded by gardens inhabited by peacocks and wallabies. Historical sites include the 19th-century copper mining pumphouse and dairy remains. Visitors arrive via the Mansion House Bay Wharf, with the Kawau Boating Club serving as a social hub for the local boating community.

Pumphouse ruins

19th-century stone ruins from a copper mining operation established in the 1840s. The site includes the engine house once used to pump water from the mine shafts.

PhillipC / CC BY 2.0

Mansion House

Mansion House on Kawau Island, New Zealand, is a house that was owned by Sir George Grey from 1862 to 1888.

Kawau Boating Club

Waterfront venue in Bon Accord Harbour offering a bar, bistro dining, and essential services for boaties. The menu features regional cuisine, fish and chips, and pizza.

Kawau Island

Primary transport hub for passenger ferries arriving from Sandspit, providing direct access to the Mansion House historic reserve.

Dairy remains

Stone remnants of agricultural buildings used during Sir George Grey's ownership of the island in the 19th century.

Mansion House Cafe

Casual eatery located near the historic residence, serving sandwiches, light meals, and refreshments.

Grey Heights

High point on the island offering panoramic views over the Hauraki Gulf and the Mansion House grounds.

Mansion House Bay Wharf

Main jetty for ferry arrivals and departures, situated in the bay directly in front of the historic Mansion House.