Ponui Island, 18sq km in area, sits between the eastern end of Tamaki Strait and the Firth of Thames, forming the southern entrance to the Waiheke Channel.
Latitude: 36°86′S
Longtitude: 175°20′E
Also known as Chamberlin's Island, it has a very small number of residents (said to be nine in 2001). The Chamberlin family are long-term farmers of the island, though these days there are other title holders as well. Ponui is mainly used to farm sheep. It is known for its feral donkeys, the presence of kiwi and a spring said to be part of an aquifer reaching across the firth to Coromandel Peninsula.
At its northern end, North Harbour (also known as Chamberlins Bay) is a popular overnight cove with boaties sheltering from sou'westerlies.
History
The literal translation of Ponui is 'the great extended night'. Like many of the inner gulf islands, it is said to be named after an island in the traditions of Hawaiki. (Tuuroa, 2000)
Christian youth camps have been held on the island for 75 years.
Tuuroa, T (2000), Te Takoto o te Whenua o Hauraki - Hauraki Landmarks. Auckland:Reed. P109
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