Waiheke Island is close enough to Auckland that you can still see the skyline across the Hauraki Gulf on the horizon, but far enough away that it provides a true escape from the city. It even has its own microclimate, offering ideal conditions for lazy beach days and sun-soaked outdoor activities. In this comprehensive guide, we outline what to see, what to eat and where to stay on Waiheke.
Credit: Casita Miro
Credit: Casita Miro
Wine tastings
When it comes to wine production, Waiheke punches above its weight. The island is warmer and drier than mainland Auckland, resulting in ideal conditions for growing grapes (and olives). There are around 30 wineries on Waiheke, and many of them offer tastings at one of the island’s award-winning vineyards or restaurants. Piece together your own winery tour by bus or bike or join a hop-on hop-off or fully guided tour. Top picks: Te Motu, Stonyridge, Tantalus and Casita Miro are accessible by bus. If you prefer a guided tour, Kiwi Connect is a good option. For those looking to extend their wine tour, check out our guide to the North Island’s best wineries.
Credit: peter rees SOTG
Credit: peter rees SOTG
Art exhibitions
Waiheke’s biennial Perpetual Guardian Sculpture on the Gulf is a reason to plan a trip to the island in late summer. The open-air exhibition is more than just sculptures placed outside. Creative installations are erected at strategically scenic points along a 2.5-kilometre coastal walkway. They’re made to be admired in situ and have been carefully placed in conversation with the landscape. The next instalment runs from 26 February – 29 March 2027.
Credit: Waiheke Walking Festival
Credit: Waiheke Walking Festival
Hiking
Waiheke contains a network of 100 kilometres of trails, Te Ara Hura , which connects the coast, forests, vineyards and historic spots. Day-trippers can enjoy short walks: Oneroa to Palm Beach, Matiatia to the vineyards and the Whakanewha Loop, including the Cascades waterfall, are just a few that can be completed within a couple of hours. For a longer adventure, connect the trails of Te Ara Hura by hiking 14-23 kilometres per day over five days. If you’re looking for extra hiking inspiration and motivation, join the Waiheke Walking Festival , which runs 11-22 March 2027, with more than 50 themed walks – or check out our guide to hiking Te Araroa.
Credit: rumboalla/Getty Images
Cycling
Waiheke is about 92 square kilometres, so don’t expect to be able to step off the ferry and explore on foot. Renting an e-bike from inside the ferry terminal is a handy way to explore the rugged, hilly coastline. Mountain bikes can be hired from near the terminal, too.
Credit: EcoZip
Credit: Man O’War Forest Flight Zipline
Ziplining
If biking and hiking are too tame, or if you’re travelling with adventurous kids, take to the treetops on a ziplining adventure. EcoZip Adventures outside Onetangi is the main operator, with three 200-metre ziplines with fantastic ocean, vineyard, and forest views. Beyond Waiheke’s main tourist circuit, Man O’War Vineyard on the less-visited east coast offers the Man O’War Forest Flight Zipline .
Beach days
In warmer weather, make a beeline for a white-sand beach. The coastline is irregular, dotted with many little bays and coves to explore, but the long sweep of Onetangi is generally considered Waiheke’s best beach for swimming, surfing and bodyboarding. Other good beaches include Big and Little Oneroa, conveniently close to the ferry but far enough away that you won’t get caught in the crowds. Forgot your bathing suit? Head to Little Palm Beach, where clothing is optional.
Credit: Casita Miro
Credit: Casita Miro
Credit: Three Seven Two
What to eat and drink – and where
In addition to wine, Waiheke produces excellent olives and olive oil, oysters (farmed within Te Matuku Marine Reserve), and craft beers, so add these to your tasting agenda. Good food can be found at wineries across the island, but the greatest concentration of restaurants is in the towns: Oneroa, Ostend and Onetangi.
Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
Book a table at this Michelin-starred restaurant early or try your luck at the more casual Archive Bistro .
Ki Māha
Across the road from Onetangi Beach, Ki Māha focuses on ethically harvested seafood and sustainably produced meats.
Three Seven Two
Almost next door to Ki Māha, Three Seven Two is an award-winning restaurant serving a rotating seasonal menu.
Casita Miro
Spanish-style food pairs well with Waiheke’s Mediterranean climate. Enjoy shared dining with tapas and larger plates at Casita Miro .
Credit: Waiheke Waterfront Lodge
Credit: Waiheke Waterfront Lodge
Where to stay
Waiheke Waterfront Lodge
Waiheke Waterfront Lodge is a five-star resort with an included gourmet breakfast and sweeping sea views.
Fossil Bay Lodge
Fossil Bay Lodge offers a whimsical glamping experience complete with bell tents, bathroom cabins, and outdoor kitchens.
The Boatshed
Check into The Boatshed for streamlined nautical-themed suites with unrivalled ocean views.
Cable Bay Views
Cable Bay Views are studio apartments in a quiet hillside location.
Credit: Island Direct
Credit: SeaLink
How to get there
Most people get to Waiheke Island by ferry from downtown Auckland. Fullers360 and Island Direct run dozens of passenger services daily (fewer on weekends), from the Downtown Ferry Terminal. SeaLink also operates several vehicle ferries per day, from the Wynyard Quarter and Half Moon Bay. The Fullers360 passenger ferry takes around 40 minutes, while the SeaLink vehicle ferry takes a bit longer, at up to an hour.
Getting around by bus
Two types of bus passes are used here: the Waiheke Western Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Bus pass (NZ$68/HK$313) and the Auckland Transport (AT) HOP card. The hop-on hop-off pass can be purchased online, while the AT HOP card is available both online and at various locations across Auckland city, as well as at the island’s Matiatia Ferry Terminal or Waiheke Public Library in Oneroa. You can pay for single rides on the bus by tapping your bank card or digital wallet.