Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island is a subtropical natural wonderland within easy striking distance of NZ's largest city. The island's unspoiled white and caramel beaches lie in stark contrast to towering Hirakimata and the old-growth native bushland is home to several unique bird and plant species.

Great Barrier Island is in the Hauraki Gulf and enjoys a warm climate ideal for surfing, swimming snorkelling and diving. The island and others close by have extremely varied diving through the shallow and deep waters of their bays. On the west of the island there are sheltered deep-watered bays; it's an area of tricky seas - shipwrecks include the 100-year-old Wairarapa, and the Wiltshire, which sank in 1922.

Walking tracks criss-cross the hills, leading to secluded valleys where you can find waterfalls and hot springs. Explore outstanding examples of New Zealand forests, filled with rare and intriguing native plants.