How to Get to Great Barrier Island — Flights, Ferry & Getting Around

Step 1

Getting to the Island

For full details on every option, see our complete travel guide.

By Air · 30 min from Auckland

Barrier Air and Sunair fly daily from Auckland Domestic Terminal. Small planes, scenic approach over the Hauraki Gulf. Book ahead in summer.

By Ferry · 4.5 hrs from Auckland

Sealink departs from Wynyard Quarter. You can bring your vehicle. Book early in peak season — it fills up fast.

Step 2

Getting to Medlands Beach

From Claris Airport

Turn left out of the airport onto the main road heading south.
Over the small bridge and up the hill — first view of Medlands from the top.
Down the hill, past the quarry, along the causeway.
Turn right into Mason Road.

or

From Tryphena Wharf (Ferry)

Head north on the main road past Mulberry Grove, Gooseberry Flat, and Pah Beach.
Past the Stonewall Store and Pah Café on your right, cross the concrete bridge.
Turn right immediately at the hall with the mosaic wall.
Over the hill to Medlands Beach — the view coming down is spectacular.
Take the first left past the little church — Mason Road.

Step 3

Finding Us on Mason Road

About 100m along Mason Road, look for two letterboxes on your left — one green, one mosaic with "No 11" on the front and a large circular sign with 175 East at the driveway entrance. If you drive past the brewery you have gone too far.
Head straight up the steep driveway, past the backpackers on the left and the large pōhutukawa on the right.

RURU HOUSE First driveway on the right

PĪTOKUKU HOUSE Second driveway on the right, follow the road past the green shed.

TREE HOUSE Third driveway on the right, follow the signs

Explore

More to Discover

Great Barrier Island is more than a holiday destination — it's one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets for corporate getaways, business retreats, and wellbeing escapes. If you're bringing a group, our Groups & Business Retreats page covers everything you need to know.

From the island itself to the three houses, there's plenty to explore once you arrive.

Great Barrier Island