Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island is paradise. Just a short hop away from Auckland, why stop off at Hawaii, Fiji or Tahiti en route to New Zealand - it’s all here! Miles of deserted, golden sand beaches, crystal clear water, pristine wilderness, plentiful food from the land and sea and only a handful of people to share all of this with - now that’s my idea of paradise.

Lying 90 kilometres north east of Auckland, Great Barrier Island is the largest island in the Hauraki Gulf and is around two hours ferry journey or 35 minutes flying time from Auckland. Auckland is the main point for departures to the island although a ferry service does operate from the Coromandel Peninsula.

Great Barrier Island was originally home to a large Maori population, however few remained after European settlers arrived to farm the land, mine gold and mill the wood of the Kauri tree. Vast tracts of land were cleared of native bush to make way for pasture and it is only today, after extensive efforts by the Department of Conservation, that the native bush is regenerating. Now over 60% of the island is under the Department’s protection.

For relaxation the Great Barrier Island is hard to beat. Seclusion, tranquility, miles of empty beaches. Many people come here to spend their entire vacation doing nothing more strenuous than reading their favourite book whilst sipping on a long, cool drink. Great Barrier is perfect for this and there are literally hundreds of spots where you can slip away to be by yourself.

The enjoyment of the natural environment can take many forms. Walking on one of the many tracks that dissect the island and take in large tracts of native bush is a popular pastime and can be undertaken either independently or with the services of a local guide. The services of a guide are especially recommended if your time is limited and you don’t want to spend it wandering around the less interesting parts of the island.

The local tour guides will show you the best spots on the island as well as impart a bit of local knowledge in the process. They are well versed in island history and I’m sure will have many stories about some of the islands more colourful past residents.

The best beaches on the island are generally found on the “outer” or eastern side facing the Pacific Ocean. Medlands, Kaitoke and Whangapoua Beaches are just three “picture-postcard” beaches, consisting of seemingly endless golden sand and crystal clear waters. Walks abound with over 100 kilometres of well maintained tracks through dense native forest, amongst native birdlife, along picturesque streams and waterfalls and around tree lined bays and inlets.

Great Barrier Island accommodation is available on the island, and includes a range of holiday houses, lodges, and motels. You will be sure to find accommodation which is suitable.