Not only is New Zealand renowned for being a pair of gorgeous islands in the South-West Pacific, but for all of its smaller islands which offer getaways for tourists and locals alike. No matter where you are in New Zealand, chances are you’re just a short boat trip or flight away from an island lost in time. Not all of these islands are well known, so understanding where they’re hidden off our shores means being able to fit in unique and remote getaways. Check out this list of the top island getaways in New Zealand.
1. Kawau Island / Te Kawau Tumero o Toi, Hauraki Gulf
With its own microclimate, Kawau Island welcomes visitors with its humid yet pleasant summers, and milder winters. Visitors usually enjoy checking out the historical Mansion House, and enjoying the untouched nature of the island. Since Kawau Island has no road access, all mail has to be delivered via boat! This is a perfect opportunity for visitors to catch a ride on the Royal Mail Run Cruise, where they can spot dolphins while exploring the coastline of this unique island off the northeast coast of the North Island. Of course, it wouldn’t be a getaway without stunning accommodation, which is where the Kawau Beach House provides a luxury getaway with its beachfront suites.
2. Great Barrier Island / Aotea
One of New Zealand’s more well-known island getaways is Great Barrier Island, just a short 30-minute flight or scenic ferry ride from Auckland City. Over 70% of the island is protected conservation land, and the island itself is in New Zealand’s only national marine park, meaning that you simply cannot escape its pure natural beauty. Great Barrier Island is one of the best places in NZ to see stars, as the first island in the world to become a Dark Sky Sanctuary. There’s no shortage of adventures on the island, with hiking, marine activities, or luxury accommodation, if kicking back with a refreshing bevvy is more your speed.
3. Rangitoto/Motutapu Island
If going off the beaten track is your favourite way to escape, then an overnight trip to Rangitoto or Motutapu Island can be an adventurous getaway. An icon of Auckland’s marine horizon, Rangitoto is a volcanic island with hikes over scoria rocks, hidden caves and a legendary viewpoint from its crater. There are only a handful of batches you can rent on Rangitoto, which is a highly controlled natural environment. If trekking is more your thing, you can hike across to neighbouring Motutaupu to camp overnight, depending on the conservation activity on the island. There are only a few ferries to and from Rangitoto island each day, so make sure you plan your travels!
4. Stewart Island (Rakiura)
With a population of just over 400 people, Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third-largest island, located off the southernmost tip of the South Island. Stewart Island offers its relaxed, slow-paced island culture to visitors who enjoy the local bush and beaches. The island provides both luxury and budget accommodation options, and plenty of fun ways to learn about its intriguing history. You can either catch a ferry from Bluff, which takes about an hour, or a plane from Invercargill Airport will get you there in 15-20 minutes.
5. Kapiti Island
If unbridled nature is your idea of a great island getaway, then Kapiti island provides plenty of opportunities to get in touch with New Zealand’s native birds and unique fauna. Visitors to the island can enjoy overnight kiwi spotting tours, before staying in the bird sanctuary lodge for a truly unforgettable glamping experience. Kapiti Island is located off the west coast of the lower North Island, and can be accessed by a short ferry ride from the Kapiti Coast.
6. Waiheke Island
For those who like to soak up a little culture (not to mention wine!), Waiheke Island is one of NZ’s top spots for weekend vacations. With stunning island scenery, Waiheke is only a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland’s ferry terminal. There are many world-class wineries all across the island, with many options for wine tours. Waiheke also offers many luxury accommodation options, as well as more affordable B&Bs and motels. Renowned for its bustling arts and culture, Waiheke also boasts breweries and olive groves. It really is the place to be for pursuers of local flavour!
7. Pitt Island / Rangiauria
Pitt Island is one of the most popular islands in the Chatham Island archipelago for weekend getaways. Its volcanic tabletop on Mt Hakepa is considered the first inhabited place in the world to see the new day. The island’s landscape is at times dramatic and rugged, and at others makes up picturesque farmland and forests. Pitt Island features lodges and cottages, perfect for putting your feet up after a day of soaking up the sights. For the more rugged adventurers, hunting and fishing are also common activities for visitors. The Chatham Islands are a truly remote getaway, residing 800 km east of New Zealand. Visitors must fly from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch to Chatham Island, then travel to Pitt Island by boat or plane.
