Matiu/Somes Island Campsite

Located in Matiu/Somes Island in the Wellington/Kapiti region

Camp in a sheep paddock on this historic island.

Matiu/Somes Island Campsite is a small, low key site suitable for small groups and individuals. It is located in a sheep paddock surrounded by historical buildings. The historic ova transplant building from the maximum security quarantine station provides the campsite facilities.

Facilities

 A maximum of 12 campers in total are permitted to camp.

  • Camp kitchen: Gas oven/ four burner hob, small dinning area and large fridge.
  • Outside facilities: Picnic tables, compost bin.
  • Power on the island is supplied by renewable resources - wind turbine and solar panels.
  • There are no phones and no shops.

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
  • Infant (0–4 years): free

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

Campsite Pass bookings must be booked online before occupying a site. If you do not book, bookings may be made by campground staff (if present) and will incur a $10 service charge. Sites may not be available if you do not book. 

Bookings

This site is temporarily closed and bookings are not available. 

Bookings are required all year.

A $10 service fee applies to phone and in-person booking. This is a limited service – book online first. An in-person booking is dependent on there being space available.

Your booking will be for a site, which will be allocated or selected on arrival.

You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the scheduled ferry service which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week. All overnight visitors arriving via East West Ferries need to contact the island ranger 3 days before your trip to advise of your arrive time and number of people overnighting, to the email address in your confirmation letter.

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 plan to arrive by private boat or kayak, find out about the rules for landing on the island. The latest arrival time for overnighters via private boat or kayak is 3 pm daily. You need to contact the island ranger at least 3 days before your trip to advise of your arrival time.

Location

Latitude: -41.25784063, Longitude: 174.86574992
  • The island has a complete fire ban. Fires, fuel/gas stoves or lanterns are not allowed.
  • During the dry summer months the island can be closed due to extreme fire risk which may affect your booking.
  • Take all your rubbish/recycling with you and remove it from the island.
  • Leave the campsite clean and tidy (toilet paper and cleaning materials are provided).