No, you out can’t

It’s not excessively steep at all, the path from the wharf area is well formed and you can stroll along at your own pace. It is a typical walking track. If you do the circuit to return down to the wharf, the path through the trees is wide and sheltered. If you feel more comfortable, a hiking stick may give more confidence. However it really is a very pleasant walk. Once you are in the area where the buildings are, its quite flat. The views are wonderful. It gives you a different perspective of Wellington. Recommend you wear sturdy footwear though for comfort and to avoid slips. Hope this helps.

There must be a utility vehicle or two on the island, as there are roads, plus a visitor center and some simple lodging to service. But, without knowing for sure, I would tend to doubt that they'd be available for visitor use. Parts of the island are marked as "wheelchair access," and there is a management plan calling for expansion of accessibility. But vehicle access for visitors is another matter. So here is a suggestion: All the harbor islands, including this one, are managed by the Harbor Island Kaitiaki Board. I checked the board's website, which lists as contacts for Matiu/Somes Island: "Island Rangers, Jo Greenman or Emma Dunning, telephone 568 6555 or email matiusomes@doc. govt.nz." You might give it a try. Good luck!

As you will have seen no, there isn't a Seatoun ferrry. We usually go from Days Bay because there is free parking there, and good coffee, ice-creams and food over the road so you can get your fix before leaving.

Yes, it is a great place to take the kids. I think you could even get around with a buggy for a lot of the island. There is one very steep track but you wouldn't need to go up it. Just take all you need for the day because there is only water there.