1. New Zealand Dotterel (Charadrius obscurus): Also known as the tuturiwhatu, the New Zealand Dotterel is a small shorebird that inhabits coastal areas, including the beaches of Motutapu.
2. Variable Oystercatcher (Haematopus unicolor): The Variable Oystercatcher, or torea, is a large-sized oystercatcher found around rocky shores, including those surrounding Motutapu Island.
3. North Island Robin (Petroica longipes): Motutapu Island is home to the North Island subspecies of the New Zealand Robin, known as "toutouwai" in Maori.
4. Whitehead (Mohoua albicilla): The Whitehead, or popokatea, is a small forest bird with distinct white plumage and is one of the most abundant native bird species on the island.
5. New Zealand Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae): Also called karearea, the New Zealand Falcon is an endangered bird of prey found in small numbers on Motutapu Island.
6. North Island Saddleback (Philesturnus carunculatus rufusater): The North Island subspecies of the Saddleback, known as "tieke" in Maori, is a critically endangered bird species reintroduced to Motutapu to ensure its survival.
7. Grey Warbler (Gerygone igata): The Grey Warbler, or riroriro, is a common small forest bird found on Motutapu, known for its distinctive "chip" call.
8. Sacred Kingfisher (Todiramphus sanctus): The Sacred Kingfisher, or kotare, is a small, brightly-colored bird that inhabits areas near water, including the coast of Motutapu Island.
9. Tui (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae): The Tui, a medium-sized bird with iridescent blue-green feathers, is known for its distinctive melodious call often referred to as the "tui song."
10. Kereru (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae): Also known as the New Zealand Pigeon, the Kereru is a large, fruit-eating pigeon that is an important seed disperser in the island's ecosystem.
11. Brown Teal (Anas chlorotis): The Brown Teal, or pateke, is a small brown-colored duck found in wetlands on the island.
These are just some examples of the native bird species that can be observed and appreciated on Motutapu Island. Visitors should follow guidelines for ethical birdwatching and support conservation efforts to ensure the continued well-being of these native bird populations.