The Ultimate Guide to Camping on Goat Island
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Goat Island is the perfect place to pitch a tent and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Here’s everything you need to know about camping on Goat Island.
Goat Island is a small island off the coast of New Zealand. It’s a popular tourist destination for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.
There are two campsites on Goat Island, both of which are managed by the Department of Conservation. The campsites are basic, with toilets and cold-water taps. There are no powered sites or showers.
The campsites are located in different parts of the island. One is near the lighthouse, and the other is in the middle of the island. Both campsites have access to toilets, cold-water taps, and picnic tables.
The best time to camp on Goat Island is from October to April. The weather is warm and the days are long. December to February is the busiest time, so book early if you want to stay during these months.
The cost of camping on Goat Island is $6 per adult per night, and $3 per child per night. You can pay by cash or cheque at the campsite, or online through the Department of Conservation website.
What to Bring
When you’re packing for your trip, be sure to bring the following items:
–Tent
-Sleeping bag
-Pillow
-Sunscreen
-Insect repellent
-Hiking boots
-First-aid kit
-Torch
-Water bottle
How to Get There
The best way to get to Goat Island is by boat. There are several companies that offer boat tours from Auckland. The journey takes about an hour.
If you’re driving, the closest town is Leigh. From Leigh, it’s a 10-minute drive to the Goat Island Marine Reserve car park. From the car park, it’s a 5-minute walk to the ferry terminal. The ferry to Goat Island runs every half-hour and takes about 10 minutes.
Things to Do
There are plenty of things to do on Goat Island. Here are some of the most popular activities:
-Hiking: There are several hiking trails on the island, ranging from easy to difficult. The most popular trail is the Coastal Track, which takes you to all the best beaches on the island.
-Swimming: The water around Goat Island is warm and clear. There are several beaches to choose from, each with its own unique character.
-Snorkelling: Goat Island Marine Reserve is a snorkeller’s paradise. There’s an abundance of colourful fish and coral to see.
-Fishing: You can fish from the shore or from a boat. The most popular fish to catch are snapper, trevally, and kahawai.
-Kayaking: There are several kayak rental companies in Leigh. From Goat Island, you can paddle to nearby beaches or explore the coastline.
-Wildlife watching: Goat Island is home to a colony of little penguins. You can also see seals, dolphins, and whales in the waters around the island.
