Matiu/Somes Island is a predator-free scientific reserve. It is also a historic reserve with a rich multicultural history. Matiu Somes Island is owned by …
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4.6/5 · 258 reviews
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Mar 20, 2025
A hidden gem, get a harbor cruise and a hike on a cool natural habitat island. There is no tour guide on the island and maps are hard to come by. The distances on signs and time to travel are about…Full review by laubachj
Feb 23, 2025
We had an excellent time on Matiu/Somes Island with our 2 kids ages 6 and 9 y/o. We saw dolphins in the bay during our boat ride to the island. On the island we had about 2.5 hours to explore which w…Full review by amyjO9249JT
Jan 25, 2025
Took 65 minutes to get there from Queens wharf and 50 minutes to get back - both times the ferry stopped at Days Bay for an age while various people with bikes etc… got on and off. As a result we onl…Full review by Travelling-wilbur
It’s not excessively steep at all, the path from the wharf area is well formed and you can stroll along at your own pace. It is a typical walking track. If you do the circuit to return down to …
It’s not excessively steep at all, the path from the wharf area is well formed and you can stroll along at your own pace. It is a typical walking track. If you do the circuit to return down to the wharf, the path through the trees is wide and sheltered. If you feel more comfortable, a hiking stick may give more confidence. However it really is a very pleasant walk. Once you are in the area where the buildings are, its quite flat. The views are wonderful. It gives you a different perspective of Wellington. Recommend you wear sturdy footwear though for comfort and to avoid slips. Hope this helps.
Is there any way an elderly lady can get a ride to the top of the island
A:
There must be a utility vehicle or two on the island, as there are roads, plus a visitor center and some simple lodging to service. But, without knowing for sure, I would tend to doubt that …
There must be a utility vehicle or two on the island, as there are roads, plus a visitor center and some simple lodging to service. But, without knowing for sure, I would tend to doubt that they'd be available for visitor use. Parts of the island are marked as "wheelchair access," and there is a management plan calling for expansion of accessibility. But vehicle access for visitors is another matter. So here is a suggestion: All the harbor islands, including this one, are managed by the Harbor Island Kaitiaki Board. I checked the board's website, which lists as contacts for Matiu/Somes Island: "Island Rangers, Jo Greenman or Emma Dunning, telephone 568 6555 or email matiusomes@doc. govt.nz." You might give it a try. Good luck!
As you will have seen no, there isn't a Seatoun ferrry. We usually go from Days Bay because there is free parking there, and good coffee, ice-creams and food over the road so …
As you will have seen no, there isn't a Seatoun ferrry. We usually go from Days Bay because there is free parking there, and good coffee, ice-creams and food over the road so you can get your fix before leaving.
Yes, it is a great place to take the kids. I think you could even get around with a buggy for a lot of the island. There is one very steep track but you wouldn't need to go up it. Just take all …
Yes, it is a great place to take the kids. I think you could even get around with a buggy for a lot of the island. There is one very steep track but you wouldn't need to go up it. Just take all you need for the day because there is only water there.
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Styles: 18-to-30something, Local Living, Marine Tours, Family Adventures, Rail Journeys
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