Often commended as one of the Coromandel’s best-kept secrets, Whenuakura or more commonly known as Donut Island, is one of four islands you’ll spot off the main beach of Whangamata. Donut Island is situated about 600m from the shoreline and can only be accessed via kayak or paddle board. Entry into the cove is via a single 40ft-high cave. This spectacular attraction features a secluded emerald-water lagoon and is surrounded by native flora. Marvel at amazing rock formations and the Pohutukawa trees as they drape the sheer cliffs that lead down to the water below. You’ll feel like a castaway who has stumbled upon your very own deserted paradise! The Island is rich in Māori history and is privately owned by local Iwi, who are the guardians of the Island.
Donut Island is classified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Wildlife Act administered by the Department of Conservation and the local Iwi. As recently as the 1980’s there were tuatara located on the island and many native New Zealand birds continue to inhabit the island. The majority of visitors who venture to Donut Island are oblivious to the fact that they’re visiting a wildlife sanctuary. The conditions of the sanctuary, put in place to protect the flora and fauna, advise NO LANDING ON WHENUAKURA ISLAND.
CLAIMING A FIND
In order to claim a find of this Virtual Cache, all that is needed is some photographic evidence of your epic adventure. A photo of yourself or group and your means of transportation inside the cove with some flora as a backdrop will suffice. The photo(s) can be uploaded via your log online which can be done anytime. There is no need to email/message me for verification. Please remember that it is strictly forbidden to leave your kayak / paddle board and it is not needed to claim a smiley on this virtual cache. If there is sufficient evidence of you leaving your mode of transport, your log will be deleted. Only visits to the island on or after date of publication will be accepted.
rustynz
Virtual Reward - 2017/2018
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between August 24, 2017 and August 24, 2018. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards on the Geocaching Blog.