Summer travel tips

Travel off-peak: Do your best to travel off-peak when it’s less busy. If you plan to leave Auckland between 10am and 12pm, or leave Waiheke Island between 3pm and 6pm, it will be busy, and we expect long queues. If you can, avoid these travel times so that you can make the most of your time on the Island. If you can’t travel during off-peak times, we recommend arriving at the ferry terminal at least 60 minutes before your preferred sailing. If you have a fixed schedule, we recommend using our Waiheke Reserve service to secure your seat.

Plan ahead: Our peak season timetable for travel to Waiheke and Rangitoto Islands is now live (effective 21 October 2024). Plan your travel ahead of time, view our peak season timetable here.

Pre-purchase your tickets online: Purchase your tickets online to save time on the day you’re travelling. You can present your mobile phone when boarding or print your tickets at home. Pre-purchasing a ticket does not secure you a spot on our Walk-up services, you will still need to arrive ahead of your desired sailing time.

Share your space: We all like a bit of extra room onboard the ferry; however, when it’s busy we ask that bags are placed on the floor or luggage racks and not on seats, so others can sit down. We want everyone to have a comfortable trip.

Pack your essentials: Remember to dress for the weather. Conditions can change rapidly in the Hauraki Gulf, so bring sunblock, a hat, warm layers and rain gear in case the weather takes a turn. Remember any medications you may require for your trip, as well as water, lunch and snacks if you’re heading to a pest-free island without shops (like Rangitoto Island).

Complete the biosecurity checklist: If you’re travelling to a pest-free island, you’ll need to check your gear for stowaway pests, ensure your bags are sealed, and clean your shoes. You should allow plenty of time before your departure to complete these biosecurity checks. Read more about biosecurity and visiting pest free islands.