![]() Pakatoa Island seen from Rotoroa Island | |
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Geography | |
Location | Auckland Region |
Coordinates | 36°47′44″S 175°11′37″E / 36.79556°S 175.19361°E |
Area | 24 ha (59 acres) |
Administration | |
Demographics | |
Population | 2 (caretakers) (2017) |
Pakatoa Island, previously known as Bell's Island[1][2] is one of many islands in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, covering 24 hectares (59 acres). Purchased in the early 1900s by the Salvation Army it was used as an alcohol treatment centre for men for two years, and later women when a larger facility was constructed on Rotoroa Island.[2]
The island was sold in 1964 and remains one of the few Hauraki Gulf Islands in private ownership. In 2014 was offered for sale for NZD$35 million (approximately US$29 million).[3] Regarded as sensitive coastal property, purchase by a foreign owner would require approval by the Minister of Finance and Minister of Lands under New Zealand's Overseas Investment Act of 2005.
Development on the island includes a tourist resort, a landing strip and a nine-hole golf course. Actor Russell Crowe once worked at the resort in his youth.[4]