Great Barrier Getaway
With its bush-clad ranges, wild surf beaches, hot springs and magnificent kauri forest, Great Barrier Island (Motu Aotea) has long been a traditional favourite with holidaymakers. We have some sightseeing options to help you make the most of The Barrier's special magic.
Lying 90km northeast of
Auckland, this rugged and beautiful island is the largest in the Hauraki Gulf, and a world away from the bustle of city life. There is no mains electricity and the roads are unsealed, but Great Barrier's spectacular natural beauty and peaceful lifestyle draw holidaymakers back time and time again.
Dense forest in the west is a haven for walkers and home to a host of native birds, including wood pigeons, kaka, fantails and tui. You'll also find the remains of historic kauri dams that were once used to move the huge kauri logs down from the hills in the island's early days as a milling centre. To the east, surfers, swimmers and walkers can enjoy the pristine beaches of Medlands, Awana and Kaitoke.
What to see and do:
- Hire a car or cycle or book one of the local tours and explore the island's natural wonders including hot springs, surf beaches, wetlands and historic kauri dams.
- Hike to the top of the island's highest point, Mt Hobson (Hirakimata, 621m), for stunning views across to Coromandel and Auckland.
- Go surfing, fishing, swimming or diving, or catch the superb breaks on the eastern surf beaches.
- Hire a kayak and explore the tranquil waters of Puriri Bay.
- Pack a picnic and walk through the native bush to Kaitoke Hot Pools – a favourite spot to relax surrounded by native bush.
- Enjoy a guided horse trek along Port Fitzroy's dramatic coastline.
Accommodation
Fact File
- It's a good idea to bring some cash, as there are no banks on the island. Eftpos and credit card facilities are available at most retail outlets.
- Great Barrier is powered mostly by generator or solar power. There is no street lighting, so bring a torch with you.
- Claris and Tryphena are the only areas with broadband internet access.
- Mobile phone coverage on the island is limited, but there are card and coin phones at the main settlements. Remember, it's a toll call from Great Barrier to Auckland.
- You'll find general stores at Port FitzRoy, Whangaparapara Reserve, Claris, Pa Beach and Tryphena.
Getting to Great Barrier (Aotea)
By Ferry
- Sealink runs daily car and passenger services from Sunday to Friday, departing from Wynyard Wharf, phone 0800 732 546, www.sealink.co.nz. A return adult passenger fare costs $105.
- Fullers Ferries run a seasonal summer service to the island from October to April, phone 09 367 9111, www.fullers.co.nz
By Air
Great Barrier Island Visitor Information Centre
Claris Postal Centre, Claris
Phone 09 429 0033 or 0800 GO 2 BARRIER (within NZ only)
Email info@greatbarriernz.com
Useful Websites