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Great Barrier Island was named by Captain Cook for the barrier it forms between the Hauraki Gulf and the open sea.
As the island is geographically isolated, there are some important things to keep in mind when preparing to travel there to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Great Barrier Island has a range of accommodation available to suit all tastes. Demand for accommodation during the main summer holiday period is high, so be sure to book in advance. Camping is permitted only in designated camping grounds. More on Great Barrier accommodation ›
As there are no banks or ATMs on the island, it’s recommended that you take cash. Eftpos and credit card facilities are available at most commercial outlets.
If you bring your dog to the island don’t forget to carry proof of registration and always check first with your accommodation provider. Dogs are prohibited on all DOC public conservation land. Island inhabitants would prefer it if you did not bring your dog.
Great Barrier Island has no mains power, water supply or sewage system. It is powered by alternative energy systems - mostly by generator or solar. As there is no street lighting it is advisable that you bring a torch with you.
In the event of an emergency please dial 111 (Police, Fire). There is no ambulance on the island but there is a district nurse based at Port FitzRoy. For medical emergencies dial (09) 429 0356.
Fire is a serious danger on the island and as a result permits are required for all outdoor fires, with the exception of barbeques. Fireworks require a permit, flares must not be let off except in an emergency and cigarette butts must be fully extinguished and disposed of safely. To report all fires phone 111.
Petrol and diesel are available at Port FitzRoy Wharf, Whangaparapara Wharf, Tryphena and Claris. There are no facilities for vehicles which require CNG or LPG.
Internet access on the island is limited. Claris and Tryphena are currently the only areas where you will be able to get broadband internet access.
Mobile phone coverage on the island is limited. Card or coin phones can be found at the main settlements around the island. It is a toll call from Great Barrier Island to Auckland.
To help maintain the island’s natural beauty please carefully dispose of all rubbish. A rubbish barge is located in Port FitzRoy Harbour (for the convenience of boat owners) through the summer months to Easter. Household refuse and recyclables can be dropped off at transfer points clearly visible at roadside locations.
General stores are located at Port FitzRoy, Whangaparapara Reserve, Claris, Pa Beach and Mulberry Grove, Tryphena. Check out the 'Shopping and Services on Great Barrier Island' section of the website for more details.
Great Barrier Island is a 35-minute flight or a leisurely 2 ½ hour ferry ride from Auckland with Fullers. Cars can be taken to Great Barrier on SeaLink’s Eco Islander ferry which takes approximately 4 ½ hours. All ferries to the island arrive at Tryphena.
The main airfield on the island is at Claris. Another is at Okiwi in the north, which usually operates from the end of October until the end of April each year. Alternatively, leisure boats can be sailed to the island.
Once on the island a network of roads connects the main settlements.
Transfer services and rental vehicles are all readily available. Great Barrier buses operate a daily service between Tryphena and Port FitzRoy all year, as well as scheduled services in the southern part of the island.
