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Great Barrier Island, Auckland, New Zealand        Welcome to one of New Zealand's best kept secrets. A short 30 minute scenic flight, from Auckland, will take you over the islands of the Hauraki Gulf and to a remote, untouched,  beautiful island paradise - a haven of peace and tranquility - a glimpse of all of what New Zealand must once have been like and a truly great place to get away from it all. Location: Great Barrier Island is the largest and furthermost offshore island of the Hauraki Gulf, lying 90km northeast of Auckland. The island stretches north to south for some 40km and has an area of 285 square kms, more than half the size of the Auckland Metropolitan area. The permanent population is around 600. Things to do and see: Great Barrier has so much to offer - acres of untouched native bush provide visitors the opportunity to view rare native plants and animals in their natural environment. Take your tramping boots - the forests are laced with over 100kms of walking tracks that lead to natural hot springs as well as numerous well-preserved historic sites and places of interest. Plentiful beaches and inlets around the island offer safe swimming, diving, snorkeling, fishing and kayaking. The eastern side takes a pounding from the Pacific Ocean, creating some of the best surf in NZ. The western side is more tranquil, with deep-water harbours of Port Fitzroy and Whangaparapara that provide safe anchorage for yachts. Accommodation A wide range of accommodation is available on Great Barrier Island to suit all budgets. From camping and backpacking, bed & breakfasts and lodges to 5 star luxury or your own self contained bach in the bush or on the beach – there is something for everyone. Our visitor information centre can give you the best advise on what is suitable for you. During peak season, (late December to late January and holiday weekends), demand is high so be sure to book well in advance. Getting Here A number of scheduled flights fly daily from Auckland’s Domestic terminal, Mangere and from Dairy Flat on the North Shore. The scenic flight takes approx 30 minutes. A vehicle and passenger ferry sails to the island from Wynyard Wharf, Downtown Auckland and takes approx 4.5 hours. Getting Around: There is no public transport on Great Barrier Island but shuttle buses can to take you to and from your accommodation and to all walking tracks, beaches etc. Tours of the island can also be arranged with GBI Shuttle Buses. Rental cars are readily available for you to explore the island at your own pace. 4wd is not necessary to get around the island but may be required to get to your accommodation. Demand is high during peak times so be sure to arrange your transport before you arrive.		Getting there
		Fly		Boat
		flights from Auckland's domestic terminal, or from North Shore... only 30 minute scenic flight... 6 flights daily Adult $228-268 rtn  Child $178 rtn (3-12yrs)		regular sailings from Auckland ... 4.5 hour leisurely cruise over the Hauraki Gulf ... Adult $90-130 rtn  Child $70-85 rtn  (5-15yrs) Car $310-390 rtn
		Getting around
		Car Hire		Buses / taxis
		rates from $55/day* funtops, economy cars, station wagons, convertibles, minibuses, 4x4s, utes, tip trucks, car seats, and more... *incl insurance, gst and unlimited kms		There is no public transport on the island. Airport/ferry pick up and walking track transport must be arranged with before you arrive. Ph (09) 4290062
		Accommodation
		Great Barrier has a wide range of accommodation to choose from ...  Camping + DOC Huts >> Backpackers >> Lodges + B&B's >> Luxury Lodges  >> Holiday Houses  >> check out our great all inclusive package deals		2 night Package ü return flights ü accommodation ü rental car for 2 days ü local advice and info Stay at Aotea Lodge, private setting, close to amenities. $395pp
		All inclusive packages
		Save time and money by booking with the information centre. Choose from any of our packages or build your own.  Check out the latest deals and discounts on offer.

Located on main road outside Claris Airport (next to bus depot and car hire offices) Office Hours 8am to 6pm (Mon - Sat) 9am to 6pm (Sun) with extended hours over summer	Telephone	(09) 4290767
	Fax	(09) 4290062
	Postal address	PO Box 20, Claris
	Physical address	67 Hector Sanderson Road, Claris
	Electronic mail	General Information:.  info@greatbarrierisland.co.nz Webmaster:.  admin@greatbarrierisland.co.nz