For such a small island, Matiu/Somes has a big history.
The island was given its Māori name by Kupe 1000 years ago. After European settlement the island was named after the Deputy Governor of the New Zealand Company, Joseph Somes. In 1997, in recognition of its bicultural heritage, the Geographic Board assigned the island its current name of Matiu-Somes Island.
Its harbour location made it an ideal location for New Zealand’s first inner harbour lighthouse, a human quarantine station, an internment camp, military defence position, and an animal quarantine station.
Open to the public since 1995, the shroud of secrecy has been lifted from the island and its stories and relics of old are waiting to be explored.
So pack a picnic and jump on the ferry. Enjoy the fantastic 360º views of the harbour while interacting with some of New Zealand’s rarer native species. Explore remnants from both world wars, historic quarantine buildings, the lighthouse, artefacts from the island's past, and pause at the monument to those who died while confined on the island.
The light at Matiu/Somes has been guiding maritime traffic safely across Wellington Harbour since 1866. Learn more about the lighthouse and the life of lighthouse keepers on the island.
Matiu/Somes was the first experience of New Zealand for many new immigrants. For some it was their last. Learn more about this part of the island’s past.
Matiu/Somes protected New Zealand’s economy for almost a century through animal quarantine. Learn more about the facilities from this era that you can still see today.
Isolating 'enemy aliens' from the public and ready to defend New Zealand against enemy air strikes, Matiu/Somes offered loyal service in war-time. Learn more about what you’ll see today.