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Key facts
- Distance
- 150 m one way
- Walking time
- 10 min
- Track grade
- Easy
- Location
- Matiu/Somes Island
- Seasonal restrictions
- The island is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5 pm daily.
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
Walk through forest to the centre of Matiu/Somes Island, on one of the original tracks on the island.
This DOC directory entry covers Matiu/Somes Island Bullock Track in Wellington, within Matiu/Somes Island. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 150 m one way
- Walking time: 10 min
- DOC grade: Easy
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Seasonal restrictions
The island is open to the public from 8:30 am to 5 pm daily.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
From the main wharf, the track leads through forest to the centre of the island. It's an alternative to the tar sealed road.
The Bullock Track is a gravel track and steeper in places than the main road. It exits at the circuit track.
Getting there
By ferry
You can get to Matiu/Somes Island on the East by West Ferry service which runs between Queens Wharf and Days Bay seven days a week. When staying overnight you must come over on the dedicated Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing.
This departs Queens Wharf 2 pm and Days Bay 2.30 pm and arrives on Matiu at 2.45 pm. This must be booked in advance through East by West Ferries
In severe weather conditions these ferries may be cancelled.
By private vessel
If you are arriving via private boat, ensure you check the rules for landing on the island. You must arrive the same time as the Overnight Visitor Drop Sailing so you can go through the overnight biosecurity with the ranger. Monday – Friday ferries arrive at 2.55 pm and Saturday and Sunday ferries arrive at 2.45 pm. Contact the ranger at least 3 days before your trip so they know you are coming by private vessel matiusomes@doc.govt.nz.
Know before you go
Biosecurity check to keep the island predator-free
Check your bags, clothes, footwear and boat or kayak for pests before leaving the mainland. Ensure food is in sealed containers. If you find a pest on the island, tell your tour guide or island ranger immediately.
On the ferry ride to Mātiu/Somes all visitors are required to complete a biosecurity self-check. This check involves making sure all bags, pockets, and prams are free of rodents, insects and plant material.
Upon arrival to the island visitors should pass through the Whare Manuhiri/visitor biosecurity room to clean then disinfect their shoes. This is also where to find maps and safety information about your visit.
History and culture
This track was one of the original European tracks on the Island, hewn out by WWI internees.
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
