Matiu/Somes Island campsite
Campsite category
Scenic
Facilities
Water from tap
Toilets
Barbecue
Picnic Table
Fees
- Adult (18+ years: $10 per night
- Child (5 - 17 years): $5 per night
- Infant (0 - 4 years): free
Booking
Book Matiu/Somes Island campsite online, or contact
| Wellington
Visitor Centre |
| Phone: |
+64 4 384 7770 |
| Address: |
18 Manners Street
Wellington
|
| Email: |
|
|
Full office details
|
Before you book:
- Read booking terms and conditions.
- Full payment is required at the time of booking.
- Cancellations must be made at least 10 days before the original occupancy date and within 48 hours of making the booking, otherwise a cancellation fee applies.
- Transfers are not able to be made less than or equal to 2 days before the first night of stay.
Campsite details
Camping on Matiu/Somes
Matiu/Somes Island campsite is a small low key site suitable for small groups and individuals. It is located in a sheep paddock surrounded by historical buildings. The historic ova transplant building, from the maximum security quarantine station now provides the campsite facilities. Guided walks and volunteer activities can also be incorporated into the visit.
A maximum of 12 campers in total are permitted to camp.
- Camp kitchen: Gas oven/ four burner hob, small dinning area but no fridge.
- Outside facilities: Picnic tables, compost bin. The island BBQ is also available for use.
- Power on the island is supplied by renewable resousouces- wind turbine and solar panels.
Location
Matiu/Somes Island
Getting there
Transport to Matiu/Somes Island is by East by West Ferry ph +64 44 499 1282 (Dominion Post Ferry) departing from Queens Wharf Wellington City or Days Bay, and Seatoun or Petone on most weekends. On weekdays the last scheduled ferry departs Queens Wharf at 2:15pm and Days Bay at 3:15pm.
We highly recommend for groups of more than 2 to book a place on the ferry.
In severe weather conditions one or both ferries can be cancelled.
All groups must let the island staff know their arrival time so that staff can assist once they land. Visitors may also arrive by kayak or private vessel between the hours of 8:30am and 5pm at the wharf area only. See Matiu/Somes Island boat access for landing protocols.
Notes
- There are no phones and no shops.
- Visitors are expected to leave the campsite clean and tidy (toilet paper and cleaning materials are provided).
- Please take all your rubbish/recycling with you and remove it from the island.
- Remember to bring a good torch with you, for around the camp and to take yourself for a night walk, if it has a red light all the better.
- Pets are not permitted on Matiu/Somes.
- The island has a complete fire ban. Fires, fuel/gas stoves or lanterns are not allowed. During the dry summer months the island can be closed due to extreme fire risk which may affect your booking.
Plan and prepare
Pest animals and plants can invade our treasured islands by stowing away on or in your footwear or gear, or on your vessel or kayak. It's easy to pick one up.
- Please check your vessel, belongings for unwanted rodents, insects and seeds before leaving for Matiu/Somes Island.
Pay special attention to clothes, footwear, tents and pegs - make sure they're thoroughly clean. If your camping equipment is not clean you will not be allowed to stay on the Island.
- Once checked:
- keep your bags tightly closed
- keep food supplies in sealed containers
- On arrival, in the Whare Kiore/quarantine building, which is located next to the main wharf, all bags will be inspected.
Find out how to prevent pest animals and plants hitching a ride with you to the island: Please help Wellington and Kapiti treasure islands.
Related links
Managed campsites,Huts,Tracks
Topo