NEW ZEALAND // In the outer Hauraki Gulf, mountainous Great Barrier Island is New Zealand 100 - or 1000 - years ago. Think dirt roads, ramshackle shops selling dusty tinned food, and - gasp –   poor or no cellphone service. You come here for hikes through the hushed kauri forests, kayak trips along the craggy coastline, soaks in natural rock pools and dazzling stargazing - the island is an International Dark Sky Sanctuary. The native bush is thick, thanks to a lack of invasive species; there's hardly anything more glorious than a stroll along the mountain track at sunset, the light turning the ridges and valleys gold and pink. Surfing is decent and diving is excellent - visibility reaches 33m (108ft) on a good day.

 

Does anyone live on Great Barrier Island?

From the Department of Conservation, the Great Wall is at an exciting point in its history where the future of the islands' flora and fauna looks bright. The same can be said for the population of about 900 permanent residents who enjoy a lifestyle far removed from their city-dwelling neighbors.

Is it worth visiting Great Barrier Island?

Over 70% of the park's protected land is protected and with night skies rated "second to none"... the entire island is a dark sky sanctuary. Visiting Great Barrier Island means experiencing life off the grid, under the radar and on the edge... it really is a world unto itself!

Why is it called Great Barrier Island?

Captain James Cook charted the coast of New Zealand as part of his 1768-1771 voyage to observe the transit of Venus. He named the island the Great Wall in 1769 because of the shelter and protection it provides for the Hauraki Gulf.

Can you go to Great Barrier Island?

The island is easy to reach, either by air or by sea, and here's a travel guide to Aotea Great Barrier Island. It's all part of the adventure!

Is it safe to swim at Great Barrier Island?

There is no lifeguard service on Great Barrier Island. If you are not a confident swimmer, West Coast beaches offer the safest swimming for all ages (Tryphena). East Coast beaches are open to Pacific waves, currents, and rip currents and can be very dangerous for the inexperienced.

Can you walk around Great Barrier Island?

Great Barrier Island has more than 20 tracks and trails, making up more than 100km of bushwalking paradise. From the 10-minute scramble to the top of Boddy Valley to the popular 6-hour Mt Hobson 'Over The Top' marathon, there really is something for everyone.