WINTER GETAWAY: Great Barrier Island

After an off-grid adventure on an island paradise? Head to Great Barrier Island/Aotea.

GET THERE

40 minutes by plane from Auckland Airport or a scenic 4.5-hour ferry across the Hauraki Gulf.

DISCOVER

Shun civilisation with a two to three-day tramp across the isle’s lush and forestentangled 25km Aotea Track, then sink into all-natural (and year-round warm) Kaitoke Hot Springs. Hop from one deserted beach to the next. The eastern coast is ideal for surfing, whereas lagoon-like coves such as Puriri Bay offer breathtaking colours akin to the Caribbean.

Sunset at Mt Heale hut, Great Barrier Island

SEE

For in-depth Aotea exploration, lean on the ever-hospitable locals. As a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you’ll want to take a tour of the Milky Way with Good Heavens stargazing or tap into the island’s golden nectar on a Great Barrier Island Active Honey beekeeping tour.

Hire an electric motorbike from Motubikes (driver’s licence required) and check out the Community Heritage and Arts Village, Shoal Bay Pottery and Black Cow Art Gallery.

EAT, DRINK, STAY

Dine at the Fat Puku Café, enjoy a tour and tasting at Aotea Brewing and mingle with the locals at Currach Irish Pub. Accommodation can be luxe or low-key. There are all-budget baches flanking mind-blowing beaches or, for something special, book a cultural stay at Ngatiwai ki Aotea Kawa Marae.