Matiu/Somes Island

OMG! What a gem. I've wanted to visit this island for many many years and today was my birthday treat. Very well laid out paths throughout the island with many information boards to teach about the history of the island. DOC starts with an informative talk once everyone is off the boat explaining the outlay of the island, what to look out for and about biosecurity on the island. After a quick self check of bags and shoes the island is yours for exploring. A must do for all kiwis and international visitors.I want to go back soon!

Good place to explore for a day or few hours. Walking tracks are well maintained and provide good lookouts over the city.Bird life isn't quite as plentiful as in other reserve type locations available around the city.The historic sites are interesting and provide some nice history about the Wellington and NZ history.Bring sunscreen and check in advance if there is anything such as a Cruise Ship, as the ferry is relatively small and on a busy day you can end up waiting for the next one.

We took the electric ferry to the Island, very smooth and comfortable although it was an incredibly calm day.I would recommend the 3ish hours visit. 1 hour isn't long enough and 5 hours is too much. You can get around all the sites and trails easily in 3 hours with a little time to write a review before the ferry! You can go inside the old animal quarantine building, which was a little spooky, and see the squat little lighthouse, which is still in use today. The birds are very friendly and quite tame, as are the sheep.You have to do a bag check on arrival and to brush your shoes to protect the biodiversity.Take snacks and water as none is available on the island. There is one compost loo and flush loos in the visitor's center.A great little mini adventure.

Very noice. Quiet, well kept island. Short, easy walks all around the island. Worth a visit.

Matiu Island is worth being explore. It's not big that took me around 2.5 hours to walk through different paths. The scenery is beautiful. You need to take ferry to go to the island. Tickets are sold at Queens Wharf that is close to Foxglove Bar & Kitchen. There are toilets on the island but no restaurant.

Cute little island that keeps you busy for about 2 hours if you walk around the entire island and stop at the various sightseeing points.

Had a great day on Matiu Somes Island with the family. There are a heap of walking tracks, unbelievable views and friendly staff. The island is quarantined, so be sure to check the website for the rules before you go. Also, pack plenty of food and drink, while there are water supplies at the Visitors Centre there are no food purchasing facilities. Catching the ferry from Days Bay ensures about 4-5 hours of an excursion.

Ferries are not frequent. In a windy weather you get very sick in it.Views are nice and I was able to know the history, but with a cost of $25, half an hour stressful trips and inconvenience of no foods no water, I didn't think it was worth it.I'm not trying to blame anyone for it though, I appreciate they try to preserve the nature and make money.

Great for a visit on a fine day while in Wellington. 30 min ferry trip from Wellington waterfront. Excellent walking tracks affording 360 degree views across the harbour and back to the city. Highly recommend for walkers and bush lovers.

It's a beautiful little island to spend half a day strolling about. We went on a clear day, and it was gorgeous. The landmarks, such as the light house and the Maori wood carving, are some of my favorites on the island. Take your time and enjoy the beauty that this little island has to offer!