Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island boasts 92km2 of pristine beaches, stunning coastal headlands, wineries, olive groves and seaside villages and is just a 40-minute ferry from downtown Auckland. One of our most popular destinations, Waiheke Island has been rated as one of the top island escapes in the world.

Located in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. You'll cruise past Auckland's stunning coastlines and beautiful islands as you journey towards Waiheke Island. You can also catch a Fullers360 ferry from Devonport Ferry Terminal. 

Home to more than 30 boutique vineyards, Waiheke has become known as New Zealand’s island of wine. Winegrowers on the island have successfully matched the maritime climate and ancient soil structures to produce some of New Zealand's best wines. Visit cellar doors for tastings or enjoy wine and food pairings at vineyard cafes and restaurants.

You'll find a range of options from food pairings to platters and casual lunch options, to gourmet meals at award-winning restaurants. Oneroa Village has beautiful cafes and takeaway options. For a relaxing lunch, take in sea views from The Oyster Inn's restaurant verandah, or venture to Onetangi for casual beachside dining at Charlie Farley's. Visit Rangihoua Estate to sample internationally-awarded Extra Virgin Olive Oil or stop by Te Matuku Oysters to purchase locally farmed seafood.

Waiheke is best known for its pristine beaches and its warm microclimate means the water is perfect for swimming. Oneroa Bay and Little Oneroa sit side-by-side and are walking distance to the main village. Spend the day at Little Oneroa and enjoy the playground and sprawling grassy area. Onetangi Beach is the place to be with beautiful white sand and must-visit bars and restaurants along the water's edge.

Waiheke offers plenty of native bush tracks and scenic coastal walks with sensational views of surrounding islands and the Coromandel. Starting from Matiatia Ferry Terminal, the Northern Walk features the most diverse track without venturing too far from the ferry. Follow the headland track to Cable Bay, Owhanake Bay, and Oneroa Village before completing the loop back to Matiatia.

Oneroa, Ostend and Surfdale are great shopping destinations. Unique stores are bursting with local art, gifts, jewellery, clothing and more. The Ostend Market runs every Saturday from 7.30am to 1pm.

Hire a private vehicle and explore at your own pace, check out our Waiheke Island car hire.

Make use of the Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus, a flexible and convenient way to see Waiheke your way. The bus meets each ferry on arrival every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and stops at 15 stops around the island including popular vineyards, beaches and restaurants.

Public transport is available on the island and most services connect with ferry arrival and departure times.

Hit the pedals and explore Waiheke Island on a mountain bike or e-bike. Cycle to cafés, past vineyards, or on rugged coastal tracks. Check out Waiheke bike and e-bike hire.