MĀTIU / SOMES ISLAND MAP
ISLAND TRACKS
Circuit of island
75 min
Wharf to Visitor Centre
15 min
Visitor Centre to gun emplacements/summit
15 min
KEY
- Caretakers Cottage
- Whare Mahana
- Education House
- Closed Quarantine Station
- Picnic tables
- Landing area, private dinghies and kayaks
SUMMER:
- Kororā are moulting and will be using their burrows. Don't disturb.
- Lizards will be out and about on the side of the tracks enjoying the sun.
- Tuatara love the sun and can be seen close to their burrows.
AUTUMN/WINTER:
- Time of recovery and quiet for many species. Lizards hibernate but can still be seen on sunny days.
- Tuatara likewise.
- Seals haul out around the coast over winter.
SPRING:
- Nesting season for manu.
- Kororā will be in their boxes with young. Don't disturb.
- Kākāriki, tōrea and other birds will be building nests.
- Grumpy seagulls will be defending their nests. Be wary.
- Nesting season for Manu - sea birds return to the motu.
- Coastal birds such as torea and shags are building their nests .
Track RULES
STAY ON THE PATH
Stay on marked paths to protect habitats and prevent disturbance to wildlife.
NO FIRES
No fires are permitted to keep the island safe and protect its natural environment.
NO DRONES
Drones are not allowed to be flown on the island. This is to protect wildlife, preserve visitor safety, and respect the island’s tranquility.