10 October 2026
Partly cloudy with the chance of a shower. Light winds.
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1 / 12Matiu/Somes Island
Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
A loop track around Matiu/Somes Island offers 360 degree views of Wellington harbour - with native wildlife, remnants from the world wars, historic quarantine buildings, and a lighthouse, there is plenty to keep kids interested.
Distance
2.79 km
Walking time
40 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
Matiu/Somes Campsite closed
Weather outlook
Wellington forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, clearing to fine spells early afternoon, then clouding over towards evening with drizzle on the ranges. Northerlies.
12 October 2026
Mainly fine, isolated showers at night. Northerlies.
13 October 2026
Occasional rain. Northwesterlies.
14 October 2026
Rain becoming persistent in the morning. Northwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
Time required : 40 min This track takes you around Matiu/Somes Island, offering spectacular views across Wellington Harbour to Wellington and Hutt cities. Pause along the way to check out the island’s historic and ecological attractions, including introduced wildlife which are thriving in native vegetation planted by Lower Hutt Forest and Bird since 1981. As well as the loop track, a side trip takes you up to the gun emplacements which were built during World War 2. There are a few stairs, but otherwise the track is accessible for most, and family friendly. It takes walkers about 15 minutes to the top from the southern end of the Loop Track and provides 360 degree views of the harbour.
Essential information for Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
There is very little bush cover in places, especially around the gun emplacements and hisotric parts of the island, so sunscreen, water and a rain jacket are essential. Pack food as there is no food available for purchase on the island There are toilets near the wharf and on the top of the hill This is a predator free island so precautions are required to minimise risk of these getting there. Personal gear and a vessel check is required prior to arrival and no pets are allowed. A quick island introduction, bag check and boot clean will be coordinated on arrival to the island for pests, weeds and insects Larger groups wishing to be met by the ranger can prearrange this with contact details on the DOC website No dogs, fires or overnight camping The island is open to visit 8.30am to 5pm every day except Christmas. East by West provides a scheduled ferry service within these visiting hours.
Huts and campsites
Both Education House and the former Caretakers Cottage are available for overnight stays. These are ideal for families or group visits. Bookings must be made in advance. Get in quick if you want a weekend booking. Additionally Matiu/Somes Island Campsite is bookable for up to 12 campers. This includes access to a c amp kitchen with gas oven/ four burner stove, a small dining area and a fridge.
Getting there for Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the scheduled ferry service 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. 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.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Matiu/Somes Island Loop Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.