The large number of pits and terrace sites, middens and cultivations all suggest a substantial population existed on the island.

The highest point of the island reaches an altitude of 177 metres.

[3] Parts of the island was farmed up until 1974 and the pastoral grassland is now being left to generate into native vegetation and many stands of kanuka and manuka are already giving protection to a variety of young native trees.

The shores of Motukawanui are endowed with a great variety of marine life.

Papatara Bay is a safe anchorage in most weather conditions and although most of the coastline is rugged, there are some pleasant sand and shingle beaches around the island.