Great Barrier Island is the largest and most seaward of the Hauraki Gulf islands in the Auckland region. Because of the island’s remoteness, protected status, and reliance on generator and solar power, make sure you check this important information before you go. With a population of around 1000 people, the locals are sure to welcome you to their vibrant, self-sufficient community.
The native forest is laced with beautiful walking tracks, which lead to secluded natural hot springs and a historic Kauri dam. For star-gazing enthusiasts, Great Barrier Island (Aotea) is the perfect place for taking in the stunning starry vistas. To view cookie details and how to opt-out, please see our Cookie Policy. On Great Barrier Island, nature is king. Swim, surf or kayak at the island’s spectacular beaches and bays, including the stunning Medlands Beach. Rising 627 metres above the sea, Hirakimata (Mount Hobson) beckons the hiker with the promise of incredible 360-degree views. Fully self-contained sea-front house suitable for families or adult groups of up to 4 with private access to a safe swimming beach. The eastern shore of Great Barrier Island faces the ocean with high cliffs and long white surf beaches; the western side offers deep sheltered harbours and calm sandy bays.

In the Dark Sky Sanctuary of Great Barrier Island Good Heavens’ experienced guides take you on a journey through stars and planets, sharing fun astro facts, mythical stories and the joys of being under one of the darkest skies imaginable. Nestled into beautiful subtropical native bush, the cabin is totally secluded - and feels a million miles away from the city. To get a glimpse, view a time lapse video. Fantail Stories cabin is set on Great Barrier Island - a 40-minute flight from Auckland, or a 4.5-hour ferry ride. Charter a fishing boat or join a heli-fishing tour to find the best fishing spots around the island. The island has been designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – joining only ten other locations in the world. Situated on the outer edge of the Hauraki Gulf in New Zealand's only National Marine Park, Great Barrier Island is a mere 90 kilometres from Auckland City - but a … A cosy secluded retreat. Scrub – clean all soil off your footwear, tyres and other gear, every time you enter or leave a forest/area with native trees.

Soak up the scenery too and feel the stress melt away.

There are several ways that you can get around Great Barrier Island while visiting. It is best to pre-arrange transport before your arrival. Other settlements include Whangaparapara and Tryphena on the western side; Claris on the eastern side. Indulge in natural, homemade skincare products made by locals. Tryphena is the largest settlement on the island and is situated on the west coast. Enjoy the clear waters and deserted beaches - just the place to unwind. Our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy explain how we use your data and who our partners are. There's also 'wharf2wharf', a marathon-length sporting event where athletes walk, run or cycle across the island, and the Great Barrier garden tour(opens in new window), which showcases the island's stunning residential gardens. We are the island's accommodation, travel, rental car and activity specialists. Here’s how you can help protect our kauri for future generations: A fundraiser for Kaitoke School, this event is organised and run entirely by volunteers. Kayak available. Discover the island’s native wildlife, with excellent bird watching, snorkelling and dive spots. For thousands of years, it has sheltered Auckland's harbour from the relentless swells of the Pacific Ocean, creating a boating paradise. If nature, fresh air, clean water and lots of tramping tracks is what you are looking for this is the place. You can get here by light plane – a 35-minute flight – or a 4 ½ hour passenger and car ferry trip. Keep browsing if you're happy with this. Shuttle and transfer companies operate throughout the island or there is a wide range of rental cars, vans and electric motorbikes available for daily hire. We offer backpacker, double rooms and self-contained accommodation. Check out our great deals, visitor information and free booking service. Whether you’re on your own, with a small group or part of a large tour party we can put together a unique island experience just for you. These wilderness areas, foreshores, and estuaries are home to several unique plant and bird species. Keep your dog on a leash at all times or leave them at home. A number of events are held on Great Barrier Island every year, including the delicious FitzRoy Mussel Fest, which celebrates the mouth-watering mussels the area is known for. A very well kept 9 hole Golf Course Located in paradise on Great Barrier Island New Zealand surrounded by native bush , enjoying uninterrupted breathtaking vistas. Check out what other travelers say about New Zealand on TripAdvisor. Relax and recharge your batteries overlooking Medlands Beach. We make it easy! Warm & sunny in the summer with a log fire for winter use. We are Great Barrier Islands Tour Specialists. The 90 kilometre journey from Auckland city takes about 4.5 hours by fast ferry or you can catch a 30-minute flight with Fly My Sky(opens in new window) or Barrier Air. Great Barrier Island is a large island with a small population.

The protected forest, clean waters and conservation efforts have allowed wildlife to thrive. Great Barrier Island's specialist holiday package provider. Let us show you the best of New Zealand on other platforms by selecting 'On' and allowing us to share data from your visit(s) with our partners. Take one of the many walking tracks and hiking trails through pristine native bush, from short walks to the multi-day Aotea Track. More than 60 percent of Great barrier Island's 285 square kilometres is public land administered by the Department of Conservation. Accommodation options range from tent sites to luxury eco-lodges. This is an island made for nature lovers, so get exploring. Give us a call. We use cookies to provide you with a better experience on this site. Stunning views and a five minutes walk to the beach makes us the perfect place to unwind and enjoy what Great Barrier has to offer. Great Barrier Island's specialist holiday package provider. Great Barrier Island is a popular destination for diving, fishing, surfing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, camping and star gazing. Couples or a family get-together, Fitzroy House and Glenfern Cottage can cater for you. Enjoy the island's emerging dining culture and sample fresh locally produced Mānuka honey, beer and gin.

Take a one-hour walk for a dip in the natural hot pools at Kaitoke Hot Springs.