Plan & prepare

Getting there

East by West Ferries provides a regular service from both central Wellington and Days Bay 7 days a week, and Seatoun and Petone on Saturday and Sunday.

For ferry bookings and scheduling information, phone +64 4 499 1282.

The island is also accessible to recreational boats. Please check for rodents before leaving for Matiu/Somes Island. Dinghies or kayaks can be pulled ashore near the smaller northwestern jetty. All other boats may briefly unload at this wharf too, but must then move to the mooring buoys or further offshore. No landings are permitted elsewhere on the island. Please refer to the Matiu/Somes Island by boat brochure for more information.

Please note

All visitors must check their bags for unwanted pests in the Whare Kiore/quarantine building which is located next to the main wharf.

Entry to Mokopuna and Makaro Island is by permit only - no landing.

Pets are not permitted on the islands.

Due to fire hazards and limited water supply, fires are not allowed and smoking is restricted to the main wharf.

The island may be closed to visitors at times of extreme fire danger. If you discover a fire, call 111 and go immediately to the wharf.

If you think there is a safety hazard in a conservation area, call the DOC HOTline 0800 362 468 or the nearest DOC office.