Matiu Island

4.5/5
(255) · Nature reserve in Wellington, New Zealand
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Matiu/Somes Island is a predator-free scientific reserve. It is also a historic reserve with a rich multicultural history. Matiu Somes Island is owned by …

Reviews

Tripadvisor
4.5/5 · 255 reviews
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Dec 29, 2024
The island has been transformed with all the plantings of native vegetation. We really enjoyed our visit and doing the walk around the island. The visitor centre has the history of the island which … Full review by Youngone51
Nov 26, 2024
this is an island across the bay from wellington with an indigenous history. there were no guides or other indigenous representatives on site. there was a small museum. there is a strict protocol abo… Full review by Diane W
Feb 3, 2024
I took the 915 ferry over with the intention of staying until 1215. Although I loved the island and the walks, the timings given are huge over estimates unless you are a very slow walker! So I had co… Full review by wombatdavid

Questions & answers

Q:
Can you take a dog?
A:
No, you out can’t
Q:
How steep is it to get to the top?
A:
It’s not excessively steep at all, the path from the wharf area is well formed and you can stroll along at your own pace. It is a typical walking track. If you do the circuit to return down to …
A:
It’s not excessively steep at all, the path from the wharf area is well formed and you can stroll along at your own pace. It is a typical walking track. If you do the circuit to return down to the wharf, the path through the trees is wide and sheltered. If you feel more comfortable, a hiking stick may give more confidence. However it really is a very pleasant walk. Once you are in the area where the buildings are, its quite flat. The views are wonderful. It gives you a different perspective of Wellington. Recommend you wear sturdy footwear though for comfort and to avoid slips. Hope this helps.
A:
Answer by Teresa Q · Dec 19, 2018
Q:
Is there any way an elderly lady can get a ride to the top of the island
A:
There must be a utility vehicle or two on the island, as there are roads, plus a visitor center and some simple lodging to service. But, without knowing for sure, I would tend to doubt that …
A:
There must be a utility vehicle or two on the island, as there are roads, plus a visitor center and some simple lodging to service. But, without knowing for sure, I would tend to doubt that they'd be available for visitor use. Parts of the island are marked as "wheelchair access," and there is a management plan calling for expansion of accessibility. But vehicle access for visitors is another matter. So here is a suggestion: All the harbor islands, including this one, are managed by the Harbor Island Kaitiaki Board. I checked the board's website, which lists as contacts for Matiu/Somes Island: "Island Rangers, Jo Greenman or Emma Dunning, telephone 568 6555 or email matiusomes@doc. govt.nz." You might give it a try. Good luck!
Q:
Can I take the ferry from Seatoun?
A:
As you will have seen no, there isn't a Seatoun ferrry. We usually go from Days Bay because there is free parking there, and good coffee, ice-creams and food over the road so …
A:
As you will have seen no, there isn't a Seatoun ferrry. We usually go from Days Bay because there is free parking there, and good coffee, ice-creams and food over the road so you can get your fix before leaving.
Q:
Are the walks suitable for 5 year olds /
A:
Yes, it is a great place to take the kids. I think you could even get around with a buggy for a lot of the island. There is one very steep track but you wouldn't need to go up it. Just take all …
A:
Yes, it is a great place to take the kids. I think you could even get around with a buggy for a lot of the island. There is one very steep track but you wouldn't need to go up it. Just take all you need for the day because there is only water there.
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