Find hotels in Great Barrier Island from £25

Top reasons to visit Great Barrier Island

• Stunning Beaches: Great Barrier Island boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Outdoor Adventures: Experience thrilling activities with Aotea Adventures, including hiking and exploring nature reserves.
• Charming Accommodation: Stay in delightful lodges and guesthouses that provide easy access to scenic spots.
• Picturesque Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from lookout points and picturesque bays across the island.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: Escape to a serene environment, ideal for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.

Find great hotels in and around Great Barrier Island

Discover an array of accommodation options on Great Barrier Island, where adventure meets relaxation. From charming lodges and guesthouses to luxurious retreats, this stunning destination caters to every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a beach holiday, or a backpacking experience, you'll find the ideal place to stay amidst the island's breathtaking scenery.

• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge: Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge is a charming 3-star motel boasting a guest rating of 9.0, ideal for those seeking a quintessential beach holiday experience. Nestled directly on the shoreline of Great Barrier Island, this lodge offers guests immediate access to stunning sandy beaches. The laid-back atmosphere, coupled with the sound of waves lapping at the shore, creates a relaxing retreat for families and couples alike. The lodge features comfortable accommodations that encapsulate a rustic yet inviting feel, making it a perfect base for exploring the island's natural beauty.
• Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat: Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat is a luxurious 4-star lodge, highly rated at 9.6, located approximately 38.6km from Great Barrier Island. This retreat is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, providing a range of dining options including a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar. Guests can indulge in various recreational activities such as hiking, horse riding, and kayaking, all of which are easily accessible nearby. With modern amenities like a DVD player and multiple televisions, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and entertainment in a serene setting surrounded by lush greenery.
• Currach Irish Pub and Innkeeper's Lodge: Currach Irish Pub and Innkeeper's Lodge offers a budget-friendly lodging experience in Great Barrier Island, perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in a friendly, local atmosphere. This lodge combines the warmth of an Irish pub with comfortable lodging facilities, making it a sociable spot for guests to unwind after a day of exploration. With its inviting ambiance and community spirit, Currach is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed and engaging stay without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island offers a unique escape with its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This remote island is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, inviting you to explore its scenic beaches and lush landscapes. Stay in charming island lodges that provide convenient access to the best spots on the island. You'll experience a truly relaxing getaway, surrounded by the serene vibes of nature while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of this remarkable destination.

• Tryphena: Nestled on the eastern coast of Great Barrier Island, Tryphena is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and outdoor adventure. With a peak in visitor arrivals during March and the festive months of December and January, the area is perfect for those seeking stunning beaches and scenic landscapes. Highlights include the family-friendly beach and picturesque bays, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the natural beauty of the island.
• Claris: Located centrally on Great Barrier Island, Claris is a quaint village known for its vibrant atmosphere and access to pristine beaches. The best time to visit is from December to February, when the warm weather draws in tourists. Claris is not only a gateway to beautiful beaches but also features local hot springs, offering a unique relaxation experience. The nearby islands add to the allure, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.
• Port Fitzroy: Port Fitzroy, situated on the northern part of Great Barrier Island, is renowned for its stunning natural harbour and serene beaches. The peak season from December to February invites visitors looking for a peaceful retreat. Known for its incredible coastal scenery, Port Fitzroy is an excellent spot for swimming and beach activities. With fewer crowds in the cooler months of June to September, it offers a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude amidst nature.

Things to do in Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities for visitors seeking scenic beauty. You can explore various attractions like Kaitoke Beach, enjoy adventure experiences with Aotea Adventures, and relax at local spas and resorts. The island features ample campgrounds, making it perfect for those who love the great outdoors. An adventure truly awaits at Great Barrier Island, where nature and relaxation come together beautifully.

Shopping

On Great Barrier Island, visit local shops in Claris for handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Westfield Albany, where you can find a variety of shops, from fashion to unique gifts, perfect for taking home a piece of New Zealand.

Recreation

Experience the serenity at Medlands Beach, where you can unwind with yoga sessions by the shore and indulge in holistic therapies. Explore the island’s natural beauty through rejuvenating bush walks and soak in the tranquillity at local hot springs, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Great Barrier Island with a hike to Mt. Hobson for panoramic views. Enjoy kayaking in the pristine waters of Tryphena Harbour, or indulge in a thrilling zipline experience at the island’s adventure park, surrounded by lush native bush.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Aotea Centre where you can enjoy live performances and art exhibitions. For a relaxed evening, visit the Great Barrier Island Club for socialising over drinks and bar snacks. Don't miss the local music scene at the markets on weekends.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Barrier Island

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Great Barrier Island are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, March and June, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Great Barrier Island about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Great Barrier Island is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Great Barrier Island is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you have in mind. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel booking on Great Barrier Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island is perfect for a beach and outdoor getaway, offering stunning scenery and adventure. Key attractions include picturesque bays, lookout points, and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Whether seeking thrilling outdoor activities or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, visitors will find plenty to keep them captivated on Great Barrier Island.

• Glenfern Sanctuary: Experience the tranquillity of Glenfern Sanctuary, a stunning reserve that offers a unique glimpse into New Zealand's flora and fauna. With its picturesque landscapes, it’s perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking peace and natural beauty.
• Windy Canyon Lookout: For those craving adventure, Windy Canyon Lookout presents breathtaking views and thrilling outdoor activities. Ideal for couples, this romantic spot is perfect for a scenic picnic or an exhilarating hike.
• Whangaparapara Harbour: Just 6.4km from Great Barrier Island, Whangaparapara Harbour invites visitors to enjoy its beautiful beaches and outdoor pursuits. Relax on the sandy shores or explore the vibrant marine life in this idyllic coastal setting.

Best time to go to Great Barrier Island

None

The nearest major airports for your trip to Great Barrier Island

Flying into Great Barrier Island is convenient with several major airports nearby. Auckland Airport (AKL) is situated 106.2km away and offers luxurious accommodations such as Cordis.h8072.Hotel-Information>Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group, located 16.1km from the airport, providing transfers and shuttles. Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour and The Grand by SkyCity, both 17.7km away, offer various airport transport options. Whangarei Airport (WRE) is also 106.2km distant, with nearby hotels like Lodge Bordeaux and Bella Vista Motel, both 6.4km away, offering free airport transport. Lastly, Great Barrier Island Airport (GBZ) is just 6.4km from the island, with hotels like Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge providing fee-based transport services.