Lighthouse on Matiu/Somes Island
Image: Mikis van Geffen | ©

Kiwi Guardians on Matiu/Somes Island

Introduction

Matiu/Somes Island, known as Matiu to Maori, has long a pre-European history dating back to Kupe. Discover native wildlife, visit the lighthouse and WWII bunkers for a journey back in time, and meet the local sheep on the island’s farm.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch by the shore or next to the sheep.
  • Walk around the WWII bunkers and gun sites.
  • Visit the shag rock lookout where Whataitai the tuatara lives – you may even see the spotted shag colony or seals.
  • Camp overnight – you may even see a tuatara or a little penguin during the night.

Get ready

Download the Matiu adventure map (PDF, 913K) and check out what you can do.

Go and explore

Look out for the Guardian Post when you get there. On it you'll find a special code word - write it down.

Getting there: Matiu/Somes Island is reached by the ferry (East by West) from Queens Wharf, Days Bay and Seatoun every day and from Petone on weekends. 

Claim your reward

Tell us the Matiu code word to receive a Kiwi Guardians certificate and medal for this adventure.

Put the medal on your back pack or pencil case to show everyone the adventure you've had.

Each Kiwi Guardians place has a different medal - see how many you can collect.

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