Aotea Great Barrier Island is a large, rugged island located in the outer Hauraki Gulf of Aotearoa, New Zealand. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique Māori culture.
Aotea/GBI has a rich history, dating back over a thousand years to when Māori first settled here. Today, the island is home to around 1,000 permanent residents, many of whom are involved in fishing, farming, and tourism.
Great Barrier Island is renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the island’s pristine beaches, native forests, and rugged hills, which offer a range of hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The island is also a popular destination for water sports, including swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with offshore reefs and even wrecks to explore.
Despite its remote location, Great Barrier Island has a range of accommodation options, including DOC camping grounds, baches and holiday homes, and luxury lodges. Aotea is accessible by ferry, which departs from Auckland’s viaduct Harbour several times a week, or by private boat or commercial aircraft departing several of the country’s airports including Auckland, North Shore, Whitianga, Ardmore, and Tauranga.
