Can you stay overnight on Somes Island?
Can you stay overnight on Somes Island?
You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the scheduled ferry service (external site) which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week, and from Seatoun on Saturday and Sundays. We highly recommend groups of more than 20 people, and those staying overnight, book a place on the ferry.
How much does Somes Island cost?
Fares
| Queens Wharf – Days Bay | 1 way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Matiu/Somes Island | 1 way | Return |
| Adult | – | $25.00 |
| Concession / Child (5 – 15 years)* | – | $13.00 |
| Family (2 Adults & 4 Children) | – | $68.00 |
What is Somes Island used for?
Its harbour location made it an ideal location for New Zealand’s first inner harbour lighthouse, a human quarantine station, an internment camp, military defence position, and an animal quarantine station.
Who owns Somes Island?
iwi
Matiu Somes Island is owned by local iwi (Taranaki Whānui) following a Treaty settlement.
Is Somes Island Open?
The island is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5 pm daily.
How long does it take to get to Somes Island?
Somes Island is serviced by East by West ferries. The majority of ferry services between Days Bay and Queens Wharf (near Te Papa) don’t stop off at Somes Island so be sure to plan which ferries you’ll catch before you make plans to visit Somes Island. The ferry from Queens Wharf to Somes Island takes 25 minutes.
What is the history of Somes Island?
Before European settlement, Māori occupied the island of Matiu for generations. It was later named Somes Island, and in the 19th century became a quarantine station for people and livestock. During the two world wars, people identified as ‘enemy aliens’ were interned there.
How long does the Eastbourne ferry take?
It’s just a 25-minute harbour ferry ride to Days Bay, Eastbourne’s popular seaside playground and the gateway to many nearby attractions including the vibrant shopping village and Pencarrow Coastal Trail.
How do you get to Somes Island?
