Matiu/Somes Island Campsite
Located in Matiu/Somes Island in the Wellington/Kapiti region
Introduction
Camp in a sheep paddock on this historic island.Highlights
Access
- Boat
Landscape
- Coastal
Facilities
- BBQ
- Cookers/electric stove
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Shelter for cooking
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from tap - treated, suitable for drinking
- Wheelchair accessible with assistance
Seasonal restrictions
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Dog access
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 and large 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.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): free
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
You need to book ahead. Campsite Pass bookings must be completed before occupying a site. If you do not pre-book, campground staff (if present) may be able to make the booking for you if space is available. There is a $10 charge for this service. To avoid any disappointment book well in advance.
Bookings
Bookings are open for stays from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022.
Bookings are required all year.
A $10 service fee applies to all phone, email and in-person bookings.
Your booking will be for a site, which will be allocated or selected on arrival.
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 plan to arrive by private boat or kayak, find out about the rules for landing on the island.
Location
Latitude: -41.25784063, Longitude: 174.86574992
- 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).
COVID-19 vaccination policy
Eligible people aged 12 years three months and over must be fully vaccinated to use DOC accommodation. See COVID-19 vaccination policy.
Check you are pest-free
Check, clean, and seal your gear to ensure you don't bring pests, soil, and seeds.
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 |
| Full office details | |