Image: DOC
Te Whare Mata Uraura.
Te Whare Mata Uraura: Matiu/Somes Island

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

Built as part of the Maximum Security Quarantine station in the 1970s this house is ideal for family or group accommodation.

Features

Built as part of the maximum security animal quarantine station in the 1970s, this four-bedroom brick house is ideal for families and groups. It is in a unique rodent-free scientific and historic reserve and has stunning harbour views.

Explore walking tracks through regenerating native bush, discover the island’s native wildlife and enjoy stunning views across Wellington Harbour. Learn about the island’s history and visit significant historical sites, including Māori pā sites and the World War II gun emplacements. 

Facilities

Capacity and sleeping arrangements

  • Maximum occupancy is 12 people, including children and infants. A number count will be carried out at check-in and excess numbers may be denied entry to the island.
  • Upstairs bedroom one has two bunk beds (four mattresses).
  • Upstairs bedrooms two and three include double beds (one single and one double mattress).
  • The downstairs bedroom has two bunk beds (four mattresses) and an ensuite shower and toilet.
  • Mattresses and pillows are provided.

Kitchen and bathroom facilities

  • The fully equipped kitchen has a fridge, gas oven and grill, 4-burner hob, pots, pans, cooking utensils, crockery and cutlery, solar heated hot water. .
  • Flush toilets with toilet paper.
  • Shower and bath with solar-heated hot water.

Drinking water

  • Water is not safe to drink unless it has been boiled first.

Power and heating

  • Power comes from renewable sources, including a wind turbine and solar panels. Be considerate and use electricity carefully. Contact the rangers if you have special requirements.
  • Heating is available only when the island is producing enough power.
  • A heat pump is available during winter.

What to bring

  • Sleeping bag or alternative bedding, sheets and pillowcases.
  • Towels.
  • All your food and medication.
  • Warm clothing as heating is limited.
  • Torch − a red filtered torch is best, so you can take a walk at night without disturbing wildlife.

Fees

The fees are for up to 12 people.  

1 May - 30 September

  • $231 per night 

1 October - 30 April

  • Weekdays: $272 per night
  • Weekends: $312 per night

1 December - 29 February

  • Weekdays: $363 per night
  • Weekends: $417 per night

Bookings

Bookings are open for stays up to 30 June 2027.

  • If no availability shows online for your dates, the lodge is fully booked.
  • No spaces are kept for visitors arriving without a booking.
  • Phone and in‑person bookings made at a visitor centre incur a $10 service fee.
  • Same‑day bookings are available online until 8 pm if spaces remain.

Book Te Whare Mata Uraura online.

By ferry

You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the East by West Ferry service which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week. When staying overnight you must come over on the dedicated Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing.

This departs Queens Wharf 2 pm and Days Bay 2.30 pm and arrives on Matiu at 2.45 pm. This must be booked in advance through East by West Ferries

In severe weather conditions these ferries may be cancelled.

By private vessel

If you are arriving via private boat, ensure you check the rules for landing on the island. You must arrive the same time as the Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing so you can go through the overnight biosecurity with the ranger. Monday – Friday ferries arrive at 2.55 pm and Saturday and Sunday ferries arrive at 2.45 pm. Contact the ranger at least 3 days before your trip so they know you are coming by private vessel matiusomes@doc.govt.nz.

Biosecurity requirements 

All visitors staying on the island must complete the biosecurity checklist.

  • Comply with biosecurity instructions before arrival
  • Leave the house clean and tidy (cleaning materials are provided).
  • Take all your rubbish/recycling with you and remove it from the island.
  • Pets are not permitted on Matiu/Somes.
  • Cycling is not permitted on the Island for the safety of all visitors. Bikes may be locked at the wharf.
  • The island has a complete fire ban. During the dry summer months the island can be closed due to extreme fire risk which may affect your booking.
  • Smoking and vaping is restricted to the Main Wharf, 10 minutes walk from the house.

Check in/out times

  • Check in time is 3 pm.
  • Check out time is 11 am.
  • Your bags can be stored at other locations if needed at any time.