Matiu / Somes Island is a 24.8-hectare predator-free island sitting in Wellington Harbour, about 20 minutes by ferry from Queens Wharf. It is one of the few places in the Wellington region where you can walk among tuatara in their natural habitat, surrounded by restored native bush and the remnants of a layered human history. The island is jointly owned and managed by Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika and the Department of Conservation.
Practical Information
| Location | Wellington Harbour — ferry from Queens Wharf, central Wellington |
| Ferry operator | East by West Ferries (year-round service) |
| Ferry departure points | Queens Wharf, Wellington; Days Bay, Eastbourne |
| Island open hours | 8:30am – 5:00pm daily |
| Cost | Ferry fare applies; island entry is free |
| Tracks | Bullock Track (10 min, easy), Gun Emplacements (30 min return, easy), Loop Track (40 min, easy) |
| Facilities | Toilets on island; no food or water available — bring your own |
| Accommodation | Three lodge/cottage options bookable through DOC; campsite currently closed long-term |
| Biosecurity | Mandatory bag inspection on the ferry to protect predator-free status |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
About Matiu / Somes Island
The island has been predator-free since 1989, following a sustained eradication programme by DOC. The restored native bush now supports a range of wildlife — including tuatara, kākāriki (red-crowned parakeet), North Island robin, little blue penguins and wētā. Tuatara are ancient reptiles found only in New Zealand, and Matiu / Somes is one of the most accessible places to see them outside of a managed wildlife sanctuary.
The island’s human history is complex and often overlooked. It served as a quarantine station for arriving ships from the 1870s through to World War II, and was used as an internment camp during both world wars — holding German, Austro-Hungarian and Japanese civilians and prisoners. The buildings from this era are still standing and form part of a historic circuit around the island.
Three walking tracks cover the island’s main features. The Bullock Track (10 minutes, easy) passes through regenerating bush. The Gun Emplacements track (30 minutes return, easy) leads to WWII defensive positions with views over the harbour and across to the Remutaka Range. The Loop Track (40 minutes, easy) takes in the full circuit and offers sweeping views of Wellington City, the Hutt Valley, and out toward Cook Strait on clear days.
Biosecurity: What to Expect on the Ferry
All visitors go through a biosecurity check before boarding the East by West ferry. Bags are inspected for stowaways — seeds, soil, invertebrates, and anything that could compromise the island’s predator-free status. No food may be left on the island, and all rubbish must come back with you. The process takes only a minute or two and is what keeps the tuatara and native birds safe.
What Visitors Say
“An absolutely magical place. Spotted several tuatara on the walk, the history of the internment camp is fascinating, and the views back to Wellington are stunning. The ferry ride alone is worth it.”
“Took the morning ferry and had the island nearly to ourselves. Tuatara were active in the afternoon sun near the path. Don’t forget to bring water — there’s nothing on the island.”
Where to Learn More
DOC — Matiu / Somes Island — Department of Conservation page with track descriptions, history, accommodation booking, and biosecurity guidelines.
East by West Ferries — timetables, fares, and booking for the Wellington Harbour ferry service including the Matiu / Somes Island run.
Wellington NZ — Matiu / Somes Island — visitor overview from the official Wellington tourism site, with tips on what to see and when to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Matiu / Somes Island?
Take the East by West ferry from Queens Wharf in central Wellington. The crossing takes about 20 minutes. Ferries also run from Days Bay in Eastbourne.
Is entry to Matiu / Somes Island free?
Island entry is free. A ferry fare applies — check the East by West Ferries website for current timetables and prices.
Can I see tuatara on Matiu / Somes Island?
Yes — tuatara live wild on the island and are regularly spotted along the walking tracks. They are most active in warmer weather and afternoon sun.
Are dogs allowed on the island?
No. Dogs are not permitted on Matiu / Somes Island to protect the predator-free wildlife.
Is there food or water on the island?
No — there are no shops or water supply on the island. Bring all food and drinks with you and carry your rubbish out.
Can I stay overnight?
Yes — three lodge and cottage options are bookable through DOC. The campsite is currently closed long-term. Book well in advance in summer.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 2–4 hours on the island. The three tracks can be completed in under an hour combined, leaving time to watch wildlife and explore the historic buildings.
What is the biosecurity check?
A quick bag inspection before boarding the ferry, checking for seeds, soil, and invertebrates that could harm the island’s predator-free ecosystem. It takes a minute or two.
For more things to do around Wellington, see the full Things to Do in Wellington guide. Zealandia Ecosanctuary is another excellent option for native wildlife encounters close to the city.