Find hotels in Great Barrier Island from £32

Top reasons to visit Great Barrier Island

• Stunning Beaches: Great Barrier Island boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and camping experiences with the High Island Camping Co.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
• Local Culture: Experience local theatre performances and discover charming shops and galleries.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodges and guesthouses for a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming lodges to inviting guesthouses, perfect for a romantic getaway or an adventurous beach holiday. With a variety of affordable options and holiday rentals available, you're sure to find the ideal place to unwind and explore the stunning natural beauty of this unique destination. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, Great Barrier Island's hotels will cater to your every need.

• Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge: Experience a laid-back beach holiday at Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge, a charming 3-star motel located right on Great Barrier Island. Perfect for those seeking a serene seaside escape, this lodge offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beautiful ocean views and sandy shores. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with comfortable accommodations, makes it an ideal choice for families and couples looking to unwind in a tranquil setting.
• Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat: For a more luxurious experience, Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat is a stunning 4-star lodge located 14.9km from Great Barrier Island. This retreat is perfect for guests who appreciate nature, with a range of nearby activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, and horse riding. The lodge features a delightful restaurant and a cosy coffee shop, alongside a bar and lounge area for relaxation. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as a DVD player and television, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay amidst the beautiful surroundings.
• Currach Irish Pub and Innkeeper's Lodge: Nestled in Great Barrier Island, Currach Irish Pub and Innkeeper's Lodge offers a unique blend of traditional Irish hospitality and local charm. This lodge features a vibrant pub atmosphere, making it a great spot for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy comfortable lodging with easy access to the island's attractions, and the welcoming vibe ensures a memorable stay. Whether you’re after a hearty meal or a pint of ale, this lodge provides a delightful experience in a picturesque setting.

Where to stay in Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island, a stunning island getaway in the Auckland Region, offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. Explore the charming Aotea Great Barrier Island, where outdoor adventures await. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere, indulge in the stunning coastal views, and discover hidden gems that make this destination truly special. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Great Barrier Island promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

• Tryphena: Nestled on Great Barrier Island, Tryphena is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and community spirit. The village experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, peaking in March and during the festive season from December to January. Travellers flock to Tryphena for its stunning beaches, picturesque outdoor settings, and breathtaking scenery. The local shopping centre provides a convenient spot for essentials, while the nearby family beach and bay are perfect for relaxation and family fun. Whether you're soaking up the sun or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore, Tryphena promises an inviting coastal experience.
• Okupu: Situated on the scenic Great Barrier Island, Okupu is a quaint village known for its seasonal appeal, attracting visitors primarily from January to March. This idyllic location is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering captivating views and opportunities for exploration. With its tranquil beaches and serene bays, Okupu is the perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The charming island atmosphere and the stunning natural surroundings make it a favourite spot for experiencing New Zealand's remarkable coastal beauty. Prepare to immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle and scenic wonders of Okupu.
• Puriri Bay: Another gem on Great Barrier Island, Puriri Bay is a picturesque village that draws nature lovers and beachgoers alike. With peak traveller arrivals from January to March, this seasonal retreat is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic vistas. Visitors can explore the stunning bay, relax on the inviting beaches, and discover the nearby nature reserve that showcases the island's unique flora and fauna. Puriri Bay's serene environment is ideal for unwinding, making it a perfect destination for those looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquil beauty of New Zealand's coastline.

Things to do in Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island offers a delightful blend of beach activities, outdoor adventures, and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy local theatre performances, explore shopping centres, and unwind at spas. A highlight for outdoor enthusiasts is the High Island Camping Co., which provides excellent camping experiences. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Great Barrier Island has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

On Great Barrier Island, visit the local shops in Tryphena and Claris for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the larger shopping options in Auckland, around 31.1km away, where you’ll find extensive malls and vibrant markets for a true shopping experience.

Recreation

Awaken your senses at the Aotea Wellness Centre, where holistic therapies and rejuvenating treatments await. Enjoy yoga sessions amidst stunning landscapes, and indulge in organic cuisine that nourishes both body and soul. For adventure, explore the island's pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails, connecting with nature at every turn.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Aotea Track, a breathtaking hike offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. For thrill-seekers, try kayaking in the crystal-clear waters or snorkelling at the vibrant marine reserve, where you can encounter colourful fish and unique underwater ecosystems.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Aotea Centre, where you can enjoy live performances and cultural events. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the local pub in Tryphena, where you can savour a range of New Zealand wines while mingling with friendly locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Great Barrier Island

To save money on your visit to Great Barrier Island, plan your trip between September and November for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are the most expensive. Use Expedia's search features to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to maximise savings and find the best overall rates for your stay.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Great Barrier Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• 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: Expedia's search feature enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation on Great Barrier Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Great Barrier Island

Great Barrier Island, located in the Auckland Region of New Zealand, is an ideal destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning bays, scenic lookouts, and preserved reserves, the island offers a variety of attractions for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Whether you're keen to explore the local attractions or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery, Great Barrier Island promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

• Windy Canyon Lookout: Experience breathtaking views that capture the essence of adventure and romance at Windy Canyon Lookout. This elevated vantage point offers a perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and couples alike, making it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.
• Glenfern Sanctuary: Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Glenfern Sanctuary, a protected reserve that showcases the unique flora and fauna of Great Barrier Island. The tranquil scenery provides a peaceful escape for nature lovers and an opportunity to witness conservation efforts in action.
• Awana Bay: Just 2.5km away, Awana Bay boasts pristine beaches and scenic landscapes perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll along the shore or soaking up the sun, this picturesque bay is a must-visit destination.

Best time to go to Great Barrier Island

None

The nearest major airports for your trip to Great Barrier Island

To reach Great Barrier Island, you can fly into two major airports. Whitianga Aerodrome (WTZ) is situated approximately 28.6km away, with hotels such as the 4.5-star Hahei Beach Resort and Bayview Valley Lodge located within 3 to 4.3km of the airport. Great Barrier Island Airport (GBZ) is much closer, at only 2.5km away. Recommended accommodations nearby include the 3-star Tipi and Bob's Waterfront Lodge, 2.5km from GBZ, and A gem of a Bach, on beautiful Medlands Beach, just 1.2km away. Transportation services from these hotels to the airports are readily available, ensuring a smooth transition to your island getaway.