After 5 hours (motor) sailing on a friend’s yacht, it was awesome to arrive at Great Barrier Island for the first time. I was spending the whole of Christmas and New Year’s sailing from one bay to the next.

The weather was excellent enough for me to get out and concur some great walks and hikes. Apparently, it can be a bit rainy on Great Barrier Island, so plan to visit in the summer for the best walking.

If you’re not lucky enough to have a friend with a yacht you can of course arrive on Great Barrier by ferry or fly there. 

Check the ferry to Great Barrier Island costs and times here

Check flights with Barrier Air to Great Barrier Island from Auckland – costs and times here