Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island is the largest of the Gulf islands. It's a 30 minute plane ride from Auckland or, you can choose one of the fast ferry services from Auckland's ferry terminal on Quay Street which takes around two and a half hours.
Once there, the island has a range of local transport for hire. Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to camping grounds and there are numerous activities and tours to suit all budgets.
Attractions include a range of bush walking tracks, numerous water activities, horse riding, bird watching and golf. If you are visiting in mid-June, you could take part in, or just watch, the Wharf to Wharf Run.
The Nature Garden Tour meanders through cottage gardens before ascending to magnificent coastal views and Glenfern Sanctuary guided walk is a must do just for climbing up into the crown of a 600 year old Kauri tree via a suspension bridge.
How To Get There
Fullers operate seasonal ferries from mid-October to the end of Janaury. The ferry crossing takes about 2 and a half hours. Check Fullers for more information.