Great Barrier Island Regional Information

Great Barrier Island is situated 90 kilometres northeast of Auckland and is easily accessible by air or sea. The island's untouched beauty and isolation make it an attractive destination for adventurous travelers. Its scenery is rugged, with rough seas pounding the eastern coast and creating excellent surf beaches at Awana and Medlands. In contrast, the waters of the western coastline are calm and well suited to the anchorage of yachts. The island's name comes from its role as a barrier, protecting the Hauraki Gulf from the stormy seas of the Pacific Ocean.

People come to this island for its natural and rugged appeal, whether catching a wave on the island's surf beaches; tramping through bush to Kauri dams and natural hot springs; getting close to wildlife, including rare lizards and birds; or fishing, kayaking and diving in the surrounding waters. While experiencing the untouched side of New Zealand's outdoors, visitors can stay in backpacker, holiday home or luxury lodge accommodation on the island.

Navigate with our great Great Barrier Island map to stay on the right track and find what you're looking for when traveling in the region. While you're on the road, be prepared for all seasons with weather forecasts, reports and current information on Auckland weather.

For more information, visit the Great Barrier Island information site.