Matiu/Somes Island gun emplacements track: Walking Guide, Time & Access

Route overview

Walk to the top of Matiu/Somes Island, to see gun emplacements built during World War II and enjoy 360 degree views.

This DOC directory entry covers Matiu/Somes Island gun emplacements 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: Not confirmed on the checked DOC page; see individual route sections
• Walking time: 30 min return
• 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

This track takes you from the Matiu/Somes Island Visitor Centre to the top of the island, the site of gun emplacements remaining from a World War II heavy anti-aircraft artillery position.

On route you will pass the former animal quarantine facility, the campsite and the bull pen, built by World War I internees on the island for the then Department of Agriculture.

From the top of the island you can experience spectacular 360 degree views of Wellington Harbour and the surrounding area.

From there you can continue down to the Circuit Track heading South via the Summit track, which is a steep, stepped walk.

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.

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.