FAQ

How can we get there?

Ferry Services from Auckland take between 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours. Frequent services operate during January and February, but services are less frequent during other times. Car and passenger ferries arrive at Tryphena. Please confirm on the day of departure because cancellations can occur due to sea conditions.

It is a 35 minute flight to Claris, out of Auckland or North Shore. Please note that there is a 15kg luggage limit on flights to GBI. Occasionally flights are cancelled due to weather conditions, so please confirm prior to departure.

Do I need to book in advance?

It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season (December to February) and long weekends.

Where are you located?

We are on the east coast of Great Barrier Island, between Claris and Tryphena. The east coast beaches are surf beaches.

How can we get around? Is there a bus service?

There are limited bus services on the island. Several companies offer shuttle/taxi services. Hire cars are available from a number of companies on the island, or there is a car ferry if you would like to bring your own car.

Click here for more information regarding transport.

Do you accept credit cards or EFTPOS cards?

No. Sorry we only accept cash or bank deposits.

What facilities do you have?

There are shared kitchen, shower and toilet facilities (villas are fully self contained). There is a fridge/freezer and gas stove. Cooking and eating utensils are provided.

Please note that there are no grocery shops in Medlands area. There are small grocery shops in Claris and Tryphena.

What do I need to bring?

It is a good idea to bring all your essentials. It is advisable to bring a torch. If you are flying, the luggage limit is 15kg per person, but by ferry the limit is higher. Bringing some of your own food supplies is recommended, if possible.

Do you have a laundry service?

We do not provide a laundry service, but there is a Laundromat in Claris.

Can I use my hairdryer or hair straightener?

Hair dryers and hair straighteners cannot be used.

What is there to do?

Activities include a network of walking tracks and Mountain Bike trails offering varied opportunities to experience the island's mature and regenerating native bush. Kayaking, diving, fishing, golf, harbour tours, surfing are just some of the activities available.

Please click here for more information regarding things to do.

Can I use my cell phone?

We do not have cell phone reception, but you can get cell phone reception at some areas on the island. There is a public phone booth near Medlands beach.

Can I use my electronics? Can I charge my iPod/camera etc?

There are no power points in the backpackers accommodation, but we can charge cameras or cell phones if necessary please ask us for this. No hairdryers or hair straighteners can be used.  

Villas have power points, but no hairdryers or hair straighteners can be used in the villas either.

Do you have internet access?

We do not provide internet access, but you can access the internet from the cafe at Claris.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

We require one nights accommodation as a deposit. During peak season we require full payment one week prior, if possible.

What happens if I need to cancel?

We will refund any payments made up to a week before. Please contact us for more information regarding this.