Discover Great Barrier

Find out what makes Great Barrier Island so special

The ideal getaway destination

Great Barrier (Aotea)

Great Barrier Island East coast beach view

Cruise with the passenger and vehicle ferry and leave big-city stress behind and get ‘off the grid’.

Set in the waters of the Hauraki Gulf, Great Barrier (Aotea) offers the ideal getaway from big-city stress. It's rugged landscape with breathtaking scenery has more than 100km of walking tracks.

Stunning beaches, surfing, diving, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Or stay on land, go mountain biking, hiking, ride on a trike or visit artists at their studios - all this is on the menu at 'The Barrier’. We recommend you plan and organise your trip before you arrive

The island is ‘off the grid’, powered by generators, solar or wind power, not mains power. Local's cook with gas and mobile coverage is limited. So expect no street lights, or regular public transport. Take your torch, your sense of adventure, a good book and turn off your mobile devices.

Get ready to enjoy a break from your everyday life, hit the beach, relax, watch the sunset and have your adventure!

Things to see & do on Great Barrier

Great Barrier Island really is all about the outdoors

You'll find plenty of options for tours and transport on the island. The best island highlights are set apart, so transport is essential. You'll encounter some narrow, windy and unsealed roads as you travel around the island.

If you're looking for good surf then you have come to the right place. There are three main surf beaches on the East coast of Great Barrier; Medlands, Whangapoua and Awana.

There are plenty of good surfcasting spots on Great Barrier, but if you're after the real whoppers your best bet is to go big game fishing on the east coast of the island. Talk to the local experts and head out on a fishing charter, they'll be sure to show you all the best spots.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to discover the island's natural beauty. We recommend you experience one of the great walks, hikes or mountain bike trails. The Windy Canyon lookout is just a 15 minute walk to the lookout.

A popular diving location, because of the abundance of sea life surrounding the island and also the shipwrecks that can be explored.

Great Barrier Island local resident surfing at Medlands beach

Getting around the island

A vehicle on 'The Barrier' is the best way to get around

Drive yourself around Great Barrier Island when you take your car on SeaLink ferry

Taking your own car gives you the flexibility to cruise around the Barrier at your own pace. The main road is sealed however some of the side roads are gravel and some require a 4wd vehicle.

If you prefer to keep your car clean at home in the garage you can rent a vehicle and arrange for it to meet you at the wharf on arrival. This does mean that you need to handle all your baggage at the terminal and wharf. Booking in advance is a must to ensure there will be one available for you on arrival.

If you prefer not to drive then book a shuttle to your accommodation and book a tour with one of the local's. They are full of information and can show you some of the best spots on the 'Barrier'.

Events

Great Barrier Island

New Years Picnic - 2 January 2018

Claris Sports Club, Whangaparapara Road, Great Barrier Island, Auckland

Times: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Door sales only: Gold coin entry at Gate: $2.00

More information: The Annual Great Barrier Island New Year Picnic

Family day out and fundraiser for Aotea Family Support Group. Showcasing the local community, music & culture that exists out on Great Barrier Island.

Huge bouncy castle - food stalls - art - heritage - water slide - Face-painting - nail drive - kids races - Tug of war - gumboot throw - charity auction - huge raffle drawn at 1:30pm - live music - natural therapies and loads more!

Get a picnic together and come along!
Please note this is an alcohol-free - smoke-free - pet free family event.