Named after Ngāti Pāoa chief Te Haupa, the island was traditionally used as a seasonal base for shark fishing.

The island is located 950 m (3,120 ft) east of the mouth of the Mahurangi Harbour, west of Motuora Island,[2][1] featuring two raised areas connected by a low-lying saddle.

[3] The western side of the island is sandy, while the eastern is dominated by tall cliffs.

[1] Other known bird species include little blue penguins and white-fronted terns.

[1] The island became a recreation reserve in 1951, later becoming a part of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park in 1968.