Activities at Matiu/Somes Island Scientific & Historic Reserve
Exploring the island
Walks on Matiu/Somes offer excellent bird-watching opportunities as well as the chance to study other plants and animals enjoying the pest-free environment. You can also delve into the island's fascinating history or bring a picnic and stop at the numerous benches and picnic tables to stop and enjoy the views.
On arrival at the main wharf and toilets, and after undergoing the biosecurity checks and a short introduction to the island, most visitors will follow the the tar sealed road up to the Matiu/Somes Island Visitor Centre. This is a steep 15min climb up towards the northern tip of the island and the former Te Moana-a-kura pa site, which offers excellent views of the Hutt Valley. As you continue to climb you will pass the memorial area and cemetery where some of the early immigrants who were quarantined on the island are buried. You reach the visitor centre and toilets at a height of 45m.
It may be a small island but its place in New Zealand’s history is huge. Explore Matiu/Somes to learn its stories and uncover its secrets.
This track takes you to the top of Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour, where you can see gun emplacements built during World War II, and enjoy 360 degree views.
A loop track around Matiu/Somes Island offers 360 degree views of Wellington harbour and the surrounding landscape.
Since pests were eradicated the island has become a sanctuary for native plants, birds, reptiles and invertebrates including tuatara, kakariki, North Island robin, little blue penguins and weta.
A comprehensive teaching resource and downloadable activity cards for both primary and secondary students. They provide information to plan a class study of and a trip to Matiu/Somes Island.
Guided Walks
These are generally taken by our volunteer Eastbourne Forest rangers and cover the fascinating multilayered history of the island as well as the historic and biodiversity conservation which is taking place now. They also increase your chance of finding some of the rare and rather shy wildlife and include a tour inside the maximum security quarantine station which is not open to the general public.
Details
- Minimum group number is 5.
- Guided walks can take between 1 - 2 hrs depending on group size, fitness, time on the island and interests.
- During summer on weekends and Public Holidays, guided walks depart from the visitor centre at 1pm, depending on staff availability.
- At any other time, guided walks must be booked at least 4 days in advance by e-mailing the island: matiusomes@doc.govt.nz
Cost
- $10 per adult
- $5 per child
- $50 for a class of school children
- $25 for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children ages 4-17yrs).
- Payment is by cash or cheque (made payable to the Matiu/Somes Charitable Trust) on arrival to the island.
View a map of the Island.
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