Matiu / Somes Island trails, Wellington

Walking time

40 min

Length

2.1km

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

74m climb

-74m descent

50m highest point

Dogs

About the trail

Mātiu/Somes Island sits in the middle of Wellington Harbour, boasting 360-degree views across the region.

The peaceful reserve is home to endangered native birds and other wildlife. It also features a long list of historic and ecological attractions. You’ll see native forest and plant life on your way to visit WWII gun emplacements, old quarantine buildings, and a quaint lighthouse.

Mātiu/Somes Island is only accessible by booking through East by West Ferries. The island is open to the public from 8:30am to 5pm all year, weather permitting. The trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Matiu Somes Island in the Wellington Harbour.

Getting there

Catch the East by West ferry to Mātiu/Somes Island.

Mātiu/Somes Island is accessible by booking only.
The ferry departs from Queens Wharf in Wellington and from Days Bay.
If you’re travelling with a group of 20 or more, contact East by West Ferries directly.
Timetables are available from East by West Ferries.

Landing on the island by kayak, private boat or waka is prohibited. For more information about boat access check with the Department of Conservation.

The teal-coloured Ika Rere electric ferry leaves its berth on the Wellington waterfront to head out into the harbour. The Wellington skyline is behind it.

East By West Ferries

Experience Wellington from the water, explore the eastern bays and an island nature reserve on the city’s only harbour ferries.

The view overlooking Wellington and the harbour from the summit of Mount Kaukau on the Skyline Walkway.

Northern Walkway

Take a journey through Wellington’s outer green belt and discover abandoned railway tunnels and expansive views.

The bright blue water and rugged coastline at Red Rocks on Wellington's south coast.

Red Rocks Coastal Walk

Waimapihi Reserve, Brooklyn Turbine and Te Kopahou ReserveExperience the wildest part of Wellington’s rugged south coast, where you might encounter a colony of fur seals and catch views of the South Island.

Two people take a selfie together at the Mount Victoria Lookout overlooking Wellington.

Southern Walkway

Start near Wellington’s city centre and follow the Town Belt through to Island Bay.

Eastern Walkway

Enjoy sweeping views over the south coast of Miramar Peninsula while walking through native bush on the Eastern Walkway. Loop back with an easy stroll along the coastline from Breaker Bay.

Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush

There’s a wide variety of walks available at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush, ranging from gentle 10-minute strolls to 2.5-hour hikes. Original forests and native botanic gardens attract plenty of native birds.