Matiu/Somes Island is a predator-free wildlife reserve in the middle of Wellington Harbour, about 4 kilometres from Queens Wharf. Accessible by a short passenger ferry from the central city, the island is managed by the Department of Conservation and combines significant native wildlife — including little spotted kiwi, tuatara and little blue penguins — with a rich human history as a quarantine station and wartime internment camp. It is one of the most accessible island wildlife experiences in New Zealand.
Practical Information
| Location | Wellington Harbour, approximately 4km from Queens Wharf |
|---|---|
| Getting There | East by West Ferries from Queens Wharf, Wellington (also stops at Days Bay) |
| Ferry time | Approximately 25–30 minutes from Queens Wharf |
| Cost | Ferry approximately NZ$20–35 return per adult (check current fares at eastbywest.co.nz) |
| Booking | Recommended in summer and on weekends — book through East by West Ferries |
| Hours | Ferry timetable varies by season — check eastbywest.co.nz for current schedule |
| Facilities | DOC visitor centre, toilets, picnic areas, walking tracks; bunkhouse accommodation available (book with DOC) |
| Dogs | Not permitted on the island |
About Matiu/Somes Island
The island carries both its Māori name Matiu and the European name Somes Island (after Joseph Somes, a director of the New Zealand Company). It was used as a quarantine station from the 1870s to the 1990s — ships arriving in Wellington with sick passengers were held at the island, and many of the island’s historic buildings date from this period. During the Second World War, it served as an internment camp for German and Italian nationals living in New Zealand.
Predator eradication on the island has allowed the reintroduction of several species. Tuatara were reintroduced in 1998 and are now commonly seen basking on rocky outcrops. Little spotted kiwi are present and heard at dusk, and little blue penguins nest on the island’s shores. The birdlife is rich, with kākāriki, kererū, tūī and pīwakawaka all resident.
Walking and History
The island has a network of walking tracks covering its approximately 25 hectares. The main loop track takes about 1.5–2 hours and passes the historic quarantine buildings, the island’s summit and the shoreline. Interpretive signage throughout the island explains the human history and the wildlife recovery. DOC staff are often present on the island and can provide additional information.
Bunkhouse accommodation is available for overnight stays, which allows the opportunity to hear kiwi calling at night — a rare experience so close to a major city. Overnight stays must be booked through DOC in advance.
DOC — Matiu/Somes Island covers the island’s history, wildlife, facilities and overnight accommodation booking. The East by West Ferries website has current timetables and fares for the harbour ferry service.
What Visitors Say
FAQ
How do I get to Matiu/Somes Island?
East by West Ferries operates from Queens Wharf in central Wellington. The trip takes approximately 25–30 minutes. Check their website for current timetables and fares.
How much does it cost to visit Matiu/Somes Island?
The ferry fare is approximately NZ$20–35 return for adults. There is no separate DOC entry fee. Check current fares at eastbywest.co.nz.
Can I stay overnight on Matiu/Somes Island?
Yes — DOC bunkhouse accommodation is available. Book through DOC’s website in advance, especially in peak season.
Is there wildlife on Matiu/Somes Island?
Yes — tuatara, little spotted kiwi, little blue penguins, kererū, tūī and kākāriki are all present. Tuatara are commonly seen basking during the day.
Do I need to book the ferry to Matiu/Somes Island?
Booking is recommended, especially on weekends and during summer. Walk-on spaces may be available but are not guaranteed.
Can I bring my dog to Matiu/Somes Island?
No — dogs are not permitted on the island to protect the native wildlife.
Matiu/Somes Island is Wellington’s most accessible island wildlife experience — see Wellington Parks and Reserves for more options. For a longer island adventure, Kapiti Island on the Kāpiti Coast is the region’s major bird sanctuary.
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