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.
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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.

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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.
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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.
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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. Fullers operate a passenger ferry service from late December to late January and some holiday weekends. Sailings take approx 2 hours.
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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 the shuttle companies. 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.