Cruise through the sheltered waters of Port Fitzroy Harbour with Hooked on Barrier. This 5-hour trip offers peaceful bays, local wildlife, and a scenic onboard lunch experience on New Zealand’s Great Barrier Island.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; mostly seated or gentle walking on board and optional sanctuary tour.
Wildlife
History
Port Fitzroy has been a prized natural harbor for both Māori and European settlers as a safe anchorage with abundant seafood.
Conservation
Ongoing pest control and reforestation efforts at Glenfern Sanctuary help protect native bird species and promote biodiversity.
Hooked on Barrier
Cruise through the sheltered waters of Port Fitzroy Harbour with Hooked on Barrier. This 5-hour trip offers peaceful bays, local wildlife, and a scenic onboard lunch experience on New Zealand’s Great Barrier Island.
Hooked on Barrier is a charter operator based in Auckland, New Zealand, offering scenic sightseeing cruises and fishing trips around Great Barrier Island (Aotea). The company runs private and shared charters that showcase Port Fitzroy, Whangaparapara Harbour, the Broken Islands, and west coast fishing grounds.
Trips include half-day and full-day sightseeing private charters, Port Fitzroy Harbour explorer cruises with onboard lunch, casual shared fishing trips with lures and rods included, and lure-only private full-day fishing charters. Family-friendly amenities such as a clean vessel, paddleboards, and kayaks are available on sightseeing charters. Some cruises provide morning tea or onboard lunch.
Optional guided tours at Glenfern Sanctuary complement several trips, offering opportunities to explore native bush and view Aotea’s endangered bird species. Fishing departures commonly operate from Whangaparapara wharf. The fleet is skippered by experienced operators familiar with local waters and safety procedures.
Hooked on Barrier emphasizes conservation-minded fishing practices, including lure-only approaches on select charters, and focuses on responsible guest experiences. Private charters accommodate families and groups seeking customized sightseeing or fishing itineraries, while shared fishing trips suit guests looking for a social, cost-effective angling experience.
Booking information, exact departure points, and specific inclusions vary by trip; prospective guests should consult the trip details when reserving. As a locally based operator showcasing Great Barrier Island, Hooked on Barrier provides direct access to remote harbour scenery, family-friendly onboard amenities, and guided nature options that enhance island exploration.
Tours are suitable for families, anglers, wildlife enthusiasts, and visitors seeking accessible island experiences today.
Base
Auckland, NZ
Gateway to Great Barrier Island
Tours Offered
7
Private and shared charters
Trip Length
4–5 hours
Half and full day options
Amenities
Paddleboards & kayaks
Family-friendly vessel
Choose a private sightseeing or shared fishing trip — limited availability for Port Fitzroy cruises and full-day fishing charters.
Check Weather Forecasts Carefully
Port Fitzroy is sheltered, but coastal winds can affect the journey. Choose a calm day for smoother sailing.
Bring Binoculars for Birdwatching
Enhance your Glenfern Sanctuary tour by spotting rare native birds in the lush bush.
Inform Dietary Needs in Advance
The onboard lunch caters to most diets, but bring your own food if you have severe allergies.
Wear Layers and Sun Protection
Temperatures can vary on the water, so dress in layers and wear sunscreen and a hat.
Water-resistant Jacket
Protects against sudden rain showers and coastal mists.
spring
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Shield your skin during long stretches on open water.
summer
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For navigating the Glenfern Sanctuary’s bush track comfortably.
Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching and spotting marine life from the boat.