Last updated July 2026
Matiu/Somes Island is a predator-free scientific and historic reserve in Wellington Harbour, approximately 3 kilometres from Queens Wharf. Owned by Taranaki Whānui iwi and managed by the Department of Conservation in partnership with a Kaitiaki Board, the 24.8-hectare island offers visitors easy access to native wildlife and layered human history. A short ferry ride from central Wellington makes it one of New Zealand’s most accessible island experiences. The island operates as both a day-trip destination and an overnight option with limited accommodation.
Practical Information
| Location | Wellington Harbour, approximately 3 km from Queens Wharf |
| Getting There | East by West Ferries from Queens Wharf (also serves Days Bay) |
| Ferry Time | Approximately 25–30 minutes from Queens Wharf |
| Cost | Ferry approximately NZ$42 return per adult (includes $6 visitor fee); check eastbywest.co.nz for current fares |
| Booking | Required for day trips and overnight; book through East by West Ferries |
| Hours | Island and visitor centre open daily 8:30 am – 5:00 pm |
| Facilities | Visitor centre, toilets, picnic areas, walking tracks; Caretakers Cottage accommodation (book via DOC) |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Access Notes | Biosecurity checks required; no drinking water or catering on island; bring own food and remove rubbish |
About Matiu/Somes Island
The island received its Māori name from Kupe around 1000 years ago. European settlers later named it after Joseph Somes of the New Zealand Company. In 1997 the dual name Matiu/Somes Island was officially adopted to recognise its bicultural heritage. Its strategic harbour location led to multiple uses, including New Zealand’s first inner-harbour lighthouse (1866), a human quarantine station for over a century, an internment camp during the Second World War, military defences, and an animal quarantine facility.
Public access began in 1995 after the island became a scientific and historic reserve. Many historic buildings and structures remain, with interpretive signage explaining the quarantine era, wartime role and lighthouse history. A monument commemorates those who died while in quarantine. The historic maximum-security animal quarantine building is currently closed due to earthquake risk.
Predator eradication has transformed the island into a sanctuary. Native species now include tuatara (reintroduced in 1998), little blue penguins, kākāriki, North Island robin, wētā and other invertebrates. The island supports rich coastal and forest vegetation and provides panoramic 360-degree views of Wellington Harbour.
Day Trip to Matiu/Somes Island
Most visitors arrive on the East by West ferry for a day trip. Ferries run regularly between Queens Wharf and the island, with some services also stopping at Days Bay. Bookings are required, especially in summer and on weekends. Every passenger completes a biosecurity self-check on the ferry and a shoe-cleaning station on arrival to protect the predator-free status.
Day visitors have access to the visitor centre, toilets, picnic areas and the full network of tracks between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm. No food, water or rubbish facilities exist on the island, so visitors must bring supplies and take everything away. Smoking and fires are prohibited. On busy days visitor numbers may be limited. Private boats require prior arrangement with the ranger and must arrive during the designated overnight drop sailing for biosecurity clearance.
Walking the Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
The main loop track circles the island and is rated easy to intermediate. DOC lists the circuit as taking approximately 40 minutes, while some mapping services record it closer to 1–1.5 hours depending on pace and stops. The track offers spectacular harbour views, passes historic quarantine buildings, the lighthouse area and the summit, and provides good opportunities to spot wildlife such as basking tuatara and forest birds.
Interpretive panels along the route explain both natural and cultural history. The track surface is generally well maintained but includes some steps and uneven sections. Visitors are encouraged to stay on formed paths to protect regenerating vegetation and nesting birds. The loop can be combined with shorter spurs to the wharf or visitor centre for a flexible itinerary.
What Visitors Often Say
The short ferry ride delivers a genuine wildlife encounter surprisingly close to the city, with tuatara often visible along the paths and abundant birdlife. Historic buildings and harbour views add depth to the experience, and many describe it as a peaceful, well-managed day out that feels remote despite the proximity to Wellington.
Walkers appreciate the easy loop track and the chance to learn about quarantine and wartime history through signage. Overnight guests particularly value hearing nocturnal wildlife after the day visitors depart. Reviewers consistently note the importance of biosecurity checks and the need to bring all supplies.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Matiu/Somes Island: Official page with history, access rules, wildlife information and accommodation bookings.
East by West Ferries – Mātiu/Somes Island: Current timetables, fares and booking information for ferry services.
DOC – History of Matiu/Somes Island: Detailed accounts of Māori and European history, quarantine, wartime use and lighthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Matiu/Somes Island?
East by West Ferries depart from Queens Wharf in central Wellington. The crossing takes 25–30 minutes. Bookings are required.
How much does a day trip cost?
Adult return fares are approximately NZ$42 including the $6 visitor fee. Children and concession rates apply. Check the ferry website for current pricing.
Can I stay overnight on the island?
Yes. The Caretakers Cottage is available for overnight hire. Book through the DOC website well in advance, especially for peak periods. A dedicated overnight ferry sailing must be used.
What wildlife can I see?
Tuatara (reintroduced 1998), little blue penguins, kākāriki, North Island robin and other native birds and invertebrates are present. Tuatara are often seen basking during the day.
Is the loop track suitable for all abilities?
The track is rated easy to intermediate and takes about 40 minutes for most walkers. It includes some steps and uneven sections. Allow extra time to enjoy views and wildlife.
Are dogs allowed on Matiu/Somes Island?
No. Dogs are not permitted to protect the predator-free wildlife sanctuary.
Do I need to bring food and water?
Yes. There are no shops, drinking water or rubbish facilities on the island. Bring everything you need and remove all waste.
Is biosecurity important?
Yes. All visitors complete checks on the ferry and at the island visitor centre to prevent introduction of pests. Follow instructions carefully.
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