Matiu/Somes Island campsite
Location
Matiu/Somes Island
Park or reserve
Matiu/Somes Island in Wellington Harbour is a predator-free scientific reserve. It is also a historic reserve with a rich multicultural history.
Campsite category
Standard
Fees
Cost per night is $10 per adult (18+ years), $5 per child/youth (5 - 17 years), Infants (0 - 4 years) are free.
Campsite details
Camping on Matiu/Somes
- A maximum of 12 campers are permitted to camp in a sheep paddock.
- All cooking shall be undertaken in the camp kitchen room using the supplied gas stove.
- No fires, fuel/gas stoves or cooking are allowed outside.
- The kitchen has a small dining area but no utensils or fridge. Campers need to bring their own utensils and cooking gear.
- Campers will be expected to take all their rubbish with them and remove it from the island.
Notes
To ensure the biosecurity of the island, all camping equipment, especially tents and pegs, should be thoroughly inspected, and if necessary cleaned prior to arrival to ensure it is seed and insect free.
Visitors must check all bags and camping equipment for rodents, seeds and plant material on arrival in the Whare Kiore/quarantine building which is located next to the main wharf.
All groups must let the island staff know the arrival time of their ferry so that staff can assist once they land. Please also let them know your expected landing time in kayaks.
The island has a complete fire ban, therefore gas cookers, BBQ's and lanterns are prohibited. The camp kitchen is equipped with a gas oven/hob for your use. Please bring a torch, as there is no other power supply or light.
During the dry summer months the island can be closed due to extreme fire risk which may affect your booking.
Smoking is only permitted at the Wharf, 15 minutes walk from the campsite.
Getting there
Transport to the island is by East by West Ferry (Dominion Post Ferry) departing from Queens Wharf Wellington City or Days Bay.
In severe weather conditions the ferry can be cancelled. We highly recommend for groups of more than 2 to book a place on the ferry.
Visitors may also arrive by Kayak or private vessel. Please read the Matiu/Somes Island by boat brochure (PDF, 559K).
Facilities
Water from tap
Toilets
Picnic Table
Plan and prepare
Types of Conservation Campsite
You can drive to most Conservation Campsites and boat-in to some. Each Conservation Campsite is unique but the facilities and services provided at campsites are divided into three categories; Serviced, Standard, Basic.
Fees are charged according to the campsite category and the level of facilities and services provided. Find out more about these campsite categories.
Booking
Book your camping spot via the online booking system or email the Wellington Visitor Centre if you need further information.
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.
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