View from the southern lookout, along the loop track
Image: Laura Honey | DOC
Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
Located in Matiu/Somes Island in the Wellington/Kapiti region
Introduction
A loop track around Matiu/Somes Island offers 360 degree views of Wellington harbour - with native wildlife, remnants from the world wars, historic quarantine buildings, and a lighthouse, there is plenty to keep kids interested.Track overview
Seasonal restrictions
The island is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm daily.
Dog access
-
![]()
Check you are pest-free
Check, clean, and seal your gear to ensure you don't bring pests, soil, and seeds.
About this track
Description
Southern lookout, along the loop track
This track takes you around Matiu/Somes Island, offering spectacular views across Wellington Harbour to Wellington and Hutt cities.
Pause along the way to check out the island’s historic and ecological attractions, including introduced wildlife which are thriving in native vegetation planted by Lower Hutt Forest and Bird since 1981.
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.
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 | |
