A day in the Eastern Bays and harbour

• Take the morning ferry from Days Bay across the ancient home of Ngake and Whaitaitai to Matiu/Somes Island. The views from the island back to Wellington, out to sea and north to the Hutt Valley can't be beaten.
• Matiu/Somes Island has a lot of history full of drama and tragedy from its time as a quarantine station and a war time prison. Today it is a wildlife sanctuary with emphasis on the Little Blue Penguin and New Zealand's unique reptile, the Tuatara.
• Take the ferry from Matiu/Somes Island back to Days Bay for easy walks into the hills or along the beaches.
• Pick up a brochure on the famous short story writer Katherine Mansfield who is world famous for her work.  Several stories reflect her time in the Eastern Bays.
• Want to be more adventurous you can hire a bike and take a ride out to Pencarrow Head where New Zealand's first lighthouse is still in operation. On the way you pass the site of the Wahine; Wellington's worst ever maritime disaster. Hidden behind Pencarrow Lighthouse are beautiful Lakes Kohangapiripiri and Kohangatera.
• Make a lunch stop in Days Bay or Eastbourne at one of the harbour side or village cafes; if you can get out of the galleries and gift stores.

There are some great walks to be done in the Eastern Bays.  For maps and further information, talk to the team at an i-SITE Visitor Centre or you could also get more information from the Greater Wellington Regional Council.

While you're in Days Bay or Eastbourne you could stay for lunch or a coffee at one of the many cafes, restaurants or bars.