Discover New Zealand’s Other Islands

New Zealand isn’t just made up of the North and South Islands; home to smaller but just as extraordinary pieces of land, you can discover even more wilderness and beauty on New Zealand’s other islands.

Great Barrier Island

Located 90km from Auckland, Great Barrier Island feels a world away from the city with quintessential countryside activities like hiking, mountain biking and bird watching, but you can also take advantage of the coast with kayaking, diving, fishing and surfing right on your doorstep, whether you choose to stay in a beachfront chalet or backpacker lodge. You can also get to Kaikoura Island, just off Great Barrier Island’s west coast.

Stewart Island

Accessible by helicopter and ferry from the seaport town of Bluff, Stewart Island is 85% national park, which is hardly surprising. Clear waters lap against the sweeping sands that lead towards lush rainforest filled with flora and fauna. Stroll along the many bays, scuba dive beneath the warm current of the Australian Great Barrier Reef, hire kayaks to explore Paterson Inlet and Rakiura National Park, or even enjoy a show at Bunkhouse Theatre – there’s enough for you to while away the hours on Stewart Island.

Rangitoto Island

Just 25 minutes from Auckland, Rangitoto Island is home to a 600-year-old volcano that you explore to your heart’s content – just don’t miss the last ferry back as there’s no overnight accommodation. Walk to the peak for incredible views of lava crops, bushland and the coast, or ride the train for a guided tour. Fewer beaches than other islands due to its volcanic landscape, exploring is extremely popular wit short and long walks, kayaking and shipwreck diving.

Kapiti Island

A mere 5km from the southwest coast of the North Island, Kapiti Island is a haven for wildlife. From overnight tours spotting wild kiwis to visiting the seal colony on a cruise, this nature reserve is one of the most precious areas of New Zealand, but is greatly accessible. With tour companies and an array of accommodation including permanent tents and cabins, there are plenty of opportunities to pop over and stay for a night or two.

White Island

It’s not irregular to see the white smoke from White Island almost engulf the sky. A live volcano, like much of New Zealand, it provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience of walking into the main crater. A full sensory experience, you can smell the sulphur, feel the heat and hear the steam escaping and mud bubbling away. Just under 50km from the east coast of the North Island, you can get to White Island on the ferry with a group tour.

By Charlotte Mellor. Images courtesy of Scott Venning, Rob-Suisted and Venture Southland.
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