Great Barrier Island, Dark Sky Sanctuary island in Auckland Region, New Zealand
Great Barrier Island extends across 285 square kilometers in the Hauraki Gulf, featuring natural beaches, hiking trails, and complete darkness at night.
Initially exploited for its kauri trees and mineral resources, the island transformed into a protected natural reserve with 60% of its territory under conservation.
The island, known as Aotea in Maori language, maintains strong connections to indigenous traditions through celestial navigation and astronomical observations.
Visitors can reach the island through regular flights from Auckland or ferry services, with accommodations ranging from camping sites to rental properties.
The absence of public electricity networks and strict light regulations allow viewing of the Magellanic Clouds and Southern Cross constellations year-round.
Location: Auckland Region
Elevation above the sea: 627 m
GPS coordinates: -36.17960,175.41969
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:23
Driving Creek Railway
62.5 km
New Chums Beach
60.1 km
Cape Rodney-Okakari Point Marine Reserve
57.7 km
Mansion House
60.7 km
Mokohinau Islands Lighthouse
41 km
Mount Hobson
941 m
Tāwharanui Regional Park
55 km
Ōmaha Beach
59.5 km
Medlands Beach
11.8 km
Aotea Conservation Park
1.8 km
Cuvier Island Lighthouse
43.8 km
Tāwharanui Marine Reserve
55.7 km
Harataonga Bay
6 km
Windy Canyon
5.3 km
Glenfern Sanctuary Regional Park
6 km
Smelting House ruins
58.7 km
Pumphouse ruins
60.3 km
Wairahi River
6.5 km
Te Hauturu-o-Toi / Little Barrier Island Nature Reserve
30.6 km
Te Hāwere-a-Maki / Goat Island Scientific Reserve
56.6 km
School of Mines Museum
64.4 km
Big Omaha Wharf
61.4 km
House
64.5 km
Methodist Church
64.5 km
Hauraki Mine Office
64.5 km
Masonic Lodge No 17
64.5 km
House
64.5 km
Government Battery
63.2 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes