Matiu/Somes Island Campsite

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

Introduction

This is a scenic campsite in the Wellington region. Camp in a sheep paddock on this historic island.

Campsite overview

Access

  • Boat

Landscape

  • Coastal

Category

  • Category
Scenic

Bookings

  • Bookings

Bookings required

Facilities

  • BBQ
  • Cookers/electric stove
  • Non-powered/tent sites
  • Shelter for cooking
  • Toilets
  • Water from tap
  • Wheelchair accessible with assistance
12 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions

Fires are not permitted at any time.

Dog access

No dogs
  • Protect our wildlife
    • Check - your gear for pests, eg. rodents, insects, skinks
    • Clean - footwear and gear, removing soil and seeds
    • Seal - ensure your gear is zipped up (no open bags)

    See island biosecurity requirements.

About this campsite

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 provides the campsite facilities.

Facilities

 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 resources - wind turbine and solar panels.
  • There are no phones and no shops.

Getting there

You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the scheduled ferry service which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week, and from Seatoun on Saturday and Sundays.

We highly recommend groups of more than 20 people, and those staying overnight, book a place on the ferry. In severe weather conditions one or both ferries can be cancelled.

If you arrive by private boat or kayak see the Matiu/Somes Island by boat information. 

Location

Latitude: -41.25784063, Longitude: 174.86574992

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $13 per night
  • Child (5 - 17 years): $6.50 per night
  • Infant (0 - 4 years): free

Passes

The campsite pass for rental campervans cannot be used at this campsite.

NZMCA / DOC campsite pass cannot be used at this campsite.

Backcountry Hut Passes cannot be used at this campsite.

Bookings

Book Matiu/Somes Island campsite online, or contact

Kapiti Wellington Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 4 384 7770
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   18 - 32 Manners Street
Wellington
6011
Postal Address:   PO Box 10420
The Terrace
Wellington 6143
 

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.

Know before you go

  • 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.
  • Take all your rubbish/recycling with you and remove it from the island.
  • Leave the campsite clean and tidy (toilet paper and cleaning materials are provided).
  • 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.

Contacts

Kapiti Wellington Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 4 384 7770
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   18 - 32 Manners Street
Wellington
6011
Postal Address:   PO Box 10420
The Terrace
Wellington 6143
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