“Long night.” Do you know what place is called that way? It is Pōnuí Island. Today we explore Pōnuí, a place with a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Pōnuí Island is also known as Chamberlin’s Island. It sits in the Hauraki Gulf east of Auckland. The island lies southeast of Waiheke Island. It marks the eastern end of the Tamaki Strait. This strait separates Pōnuí from the Hunua Ranges.
Pōnuí’s Māori name means “long night”. This name hints at the island’s rich past. Archaeological finds suggest Māori lived here as early as the 1400s. These remains offer a glimpse into the early Māori life in the Auckland region.
Since 1853 the Chamberlin family has farmed Pōnuí Island. Today three farms cover the island. Two belong to the Chamberlin family. John Spencer owns the third. In 2001 only nine permanent residents lived here. They all worked on these sheep farms. Stone and sand were taken from Pōnuí for Auckland’s concrete buildings from the 1880s to the early 20th century.
Pōnuí Island is a haven for youth camps. Scout groups often visit. Crusader camps, now Scripture Union, have been held here since 1932. These camps provide memorable experiences for young people.
Pōnuí is home to New Zealand’s only feral donkey breed: the Pōnuí donkey. These donkeys roam freely. The island also has a large kiwi population. In 1964 thirteen kiwi were released on the island. The kiwi population grew to around 1500.
The island is private property. The owners allow boaties to land on the beaches. However there are limitations. No dogs, fires, or camping are permitted. This helps protect the kiwi.
You can find Chamberlains Bay on the northern coast. It offers shelter in various wind conditions. Just east of the bay are sandy beaches. Shark Bay sits on the western side. Fishing is good around Pōnuí especially on the eastern side. But beware of the Te Matuki Marine Reserve on the northwestern side.
Dr. Isabel Castro researched the kiwi population. The team found the kiwi had thrived. The kiwi population had reached the island’s carrying capacity.
Pōnuí Island is a special place. Its history, nature, and community create a unique destination. As we leave remember the long nights and lasting legacy of Pōnuí.