Image: DOC
Forest and Bird House exterior.
Forest and Bird House

Located in Matiu/Somes Island in the Wellington/Kapiti region

Forest and Bird House on Matiu/Somes Island is set amongst native bush with easy access to the main road and bush walks. It sleeps seven people.

Facilities

  • Sleeps seven people in three rooms: two single beds in room 1, a queen bed and single bunk in room 2 and a queen bed in room 3.
  • Mattresses and pillows are provided.
  • 6 seat dining table in separate dining room.
  • Power is provided by renewable resources, wind turbine and solar panels. We ask users to be considerate with consumption and contact the rangers if you have special requirements.
  • Heating is only available when island power production permits.
  • Heat pump during winter (operates on a timer system and available to use from 7 am–9 am in the morning and 6 pm–10 pm at night).
  • Fully equipped kitchen: fridge/freezer, gas oven, pots, pans, cooking utensils, crockery and cutlery, solar hot water, tea towels and dishcloths.
  • Two flush toilets. Toilet paper is provided.
  • Shower with solar hot water.
  • Water is not suitable for drinking, boil before use.
  • Washing machine and clothesline
  • Outside facilities: A picnic table and a four burner gas BBQ with utensils. BBQ must not be removed from this area

What to bring

  • Sleeping bag or alternative bedding, sheets and pillowcases.
  • Towels.
  • All your food and medication.
  • Warm clothing − heating is limited.
  • Torch − a red filtered torch is best, so you can take a walk at night without disturbing wildlife.

Fees

The fees are per night for up to seven people.  

  • Weekday: $196 per night  
  • Weekend (Friday or Saturday night): $236 per night 
  • Peak (23 December – 16 January): $236 per night 

Bookings

Bookings open on Friday 29 August 2025 for bookings from 1 September 2025 to 30 June 2026. 

Book Forest & Bird House online

A $10 service fee applies to phone and in-person booking. This is a limited service – book online first. An in-person booking is dependent on there being space available.

By ferry

You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the East by West Ferry service which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week. When staying overnight you must come over on the dedicated Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing.


This departs Queens Wharf 2 pm and Days Bay 2.30 pm and arrives on Matiu at 2.45 pm. This must be booked in advance through East by West Ferries.

In severe weather conditions these ferries may be cancelled.

By private vessel

If you are arriving via private boat, ensure you check the rules for landing on the island. You must arrive the same time as the Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing so you can go through the overnight biosecurity with the ranger. Monday – Friday ferries arrive at 2.55 pm and Saturday and Sunday ferries arrive at 2.45 pm. Contact the ranger at least 3 days before your trip so they know you are coming by private vessel matiusomes@doc.govt.nz.

Biosecurity requirements

All visitors staying on the island must complete and bring the biosecurity checklist.

  • Comply with biosecurity instructions before arrival.
  • Leave the house clean and tidy (cleaning materials are provided).
  • Take all your rubbish/recycling with you and remove it from the island.
  • Pets are not permitted on Matiu/Somes.
  • Cycling is not permitted on the island. Bikes may be locked at the wharf.
  • The island has a complete fire ban. During the dry summer months the island can be closed due to extreme fire risk which may affect your booking.
  • Smoking and vaping is only permitted at the wharf, 10 minutes walk from the house.

Check in/out times 

  • Check in time is 3 pm.
  • Check out time is 11 am.
  • Your bags can be stored at other locations if needed at any time.