A World of its Own - Great Barrier Island

How to get there and where to stay?

It is possible to either fly or ferry to Great Barrier Island. The ferry gives you the option to bring your own vehicle across or it is possible to hire a car on the Island. The downside is that the crossing takes 4 and a half hours - which seems longer in rough weather! For a shorter stay we recommend flying. The flights depart from Auckland domestic airport or North Shore airport and take just 30 minutes. 

You will find a range of accommodation from budget to luxury in idyllic surroundings with sea or bush views. The pace of life is slower here usually and things don't always happen on time, they happen in 'Barrier time'. This is a unique and special place not just because of it's beauty but for the tranquillity, the peace and quiet it has to offer all who wish to experience it.  

Great Beaches

The beaches on Aotea Great Barrier Island have something to suit everyones needs. Take the 90 minute drive north from the Tryphena ferry terminal and you’ll pass safe, sheltered and gently sloping sandy beaches where small children play, and come across breathtaking views of dramatic surf beaches at Medlands, Awana, and Okiwi. Medlands has camping facilities and is popular during the summer months. Be aware that there are no lifesaving patrols on any of the beaches so stay safe and swim within your capabilities.

Many families from the mainland have built interesting baches (holiday homes) around these bays. All Island life is off-grid and powered by solar and other forms of generators.

Many of these beaches are home to rare bird specials found only in New Zealand such as the Banded Dotterels, which is more endangered than the Kiwi with only 2500 left.  To protect these shorebirds there are strict no dog policies in effect and in fact some beaches are off limits to people as well - please observe all restrictions as per the Department of Conservation signage.

Great Hiking

Aotea/Great Barrier is a walkers paradise, most of the walking is on Crown owned land which makes it accessible to all.  There are both day walks and multi day hikes available. The Aotea Conservation Park covers more than 12,000 hectares and has multiple walking tracks for novice and experienced walkers. Aotea/Great Barrier Island has the only multi-day wilderness walk in the Auckland region, with two DOC huts and numerous campsites. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

The Kaitoke Hot Springs walk is popular taking just 45 minutes but you can extend this walk to 4 hours up Mount Hobson. 

The Aotea Track is suitable for reasonably fit beginners or experienced trampers and takes 2 to 3 days to complete. The track is a combination of easy walking tracks, boardwalks, steep climbs, stairways and bridges, exploring a constant spectacle of beautiful native bush; tranquil wetlands; and the surviving forests of kauri, rimu and kahikatea with their special plants and wildlife.

What to see and do

From kayaking and trike tours to astrophotography adventures - you are bound to find  something that appeals. Kaikoura Island in the harbour is now a public reserve and offers more tracks to explore.  There are a few grocery stores, two cafes, pub, restaurant and two burger bars, where you can meet and get to know some of the locals. The Art Gallery housed in an island historic home showcases the talent of the people on the island. There is a local pottery, quaint museums and a few shops but the vibe is relaxed and laid back.

Whichever way you would like to enjoy Great Barrier Island – you will have zero regrets!

Chat to our Travel Specialists about adding Great Barrier Island to your trip - they'll listen to your dream-trip must-do's and build an itinerary that's tailor-made to your desires.