Great Barrier Island Must-Do's

Accommodation can be luxe or low-key. There are all-budget baches flanking mindblowing beaches or, for something special, book a cultural stay at Ngatiwai ki Aotea Kawa Marae.

> Escapism - Great Barrier Island is 40 minutes by plane from Auckland Airport or a scenic four-and-a-half hour ferry across the Hauraki Gulf. It offers an off-grid adventure in an utterly pristine paradise.

> Beach Hopping - Hop from one deserted beach to the next. The eastern coast is ideal for surfing, whereas lagoon-like coves such as Pūriri Bay offer breathtaking colours akin to the Caribbean.

> International Dark Sky Sanctuary - One of just ten on the planet, the stargazing is out of this world. You’ll definitely want to take a tour of the Milky Way with Good Heavens stargazing.

Mt Heale Hut, Aotea / Great Barrier Island © Todd Eyre

> Aotea Track - Shun civilisation with a two to three-day tramp across the island’s lush and forest-entangled 25km Aotea Track. Graded as an advanced track for seasoned hikers with huts along the way.

> Kaitoke Hot Springs - Follow an easy and flat 30-minute track through lush forest to this all-natural hot spring and sink into its year-round warm water, surrounded by flora and fantails.

> Great Barrier Island Active Honey - Tap into the island’s golden nectar with an engaging beekeeping tour.

> Motubikes - Zip around the island by hiring an electric motorbike from Motubikes (driver’s licence required). Located just outside Claris and conveniently close to the airport.

> Art Work - Shoal Bay Pottery is just minutes from Tryphena Wharf ferry terminal. This is a small studio owned by artist Sarah Harrison; her ceramic wares are irresistible. Other Great Barrier art spots include the Community Heritage and Arts Village and Black Cow Art Gallery.

Want more? Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz

IMAGE ABOVE: Mt Heale Hut, Aotea / Great Barrier Island © Todd Eyre