At just 19 kilometres in length, and populated by gourmet restaurants, vineyards and quirky little art galleries, Waiheke Island is a great destination for an indulgent day trip or short break away from Auckland.More than 100 artists live and work full-time on the island, displaying their creations in the island's many galleries and studios. For people who are more interested in the ancient than the contemporary, there is the Woolshed Museum in Onetangi which charts Waiheke's history through historical artefacts and photographs. Alternatively, there is the music museum in Oneroa which houses instruments dating right back to the 1500s.It's extremely easy to get around Waiheke by simply hopping on one of the plentiful buses departing from the ferry terminal. An all-day bus pass is probably the best value for those intending to travel around the island.There are many beautiful vineyards scattered all over the island, producing Chardonnay, Syrah and Bordeaux-type wines. Many of these vineyards also grow their own olives, which can be sampled along with the wine and other delicacies in the vineyards' cafés and restaurants.When you arrive at the ferry port, it might be a good idea to take a look at the tours on offer at the on-site kiosk. There are plenty of kayaking and boat tours offering a chance to get to know the island's waters and maybe even meet some of the orca whales that inhabit them. Some of these tours offer packages including gourmet meals accompanied by local Waiheke wines.Head to Whakanewha Regional Park for a wander amidst taraire, kohekohe and kanuka forest, as well as wetlands teeming with some of the country's most elusive birdlife. The regional park is also home to the only camping area on the island.It's quick and easy to get to Waiheke from the mainland, with regular car and passenger ferries leaving Viaduct Harbour daily. For something a bit more dramatic, you could charter a small plane or luxurious sailboat to make the short journey instead.
Waiheke Island Travel Guide
Where to stay in Waiheke Island
Oneroa
Unique features of Oneroa include the wineries and beaches. Make a stop by Palm Beach or Matiatia Wharf Ferry Terminal while you're exploring the area.
Onetangi
Onetangi is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Onetangi Beach and Eco Zip Adventures.
Ostend
You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in Ostend. You might want to make time for a stop at Anzac Bay or Obsidian Vineyard.
Surfdale
If you're spending some time in Surfdale, Surfdale Beach and Goldie Vineyard are top sights worth seeing.
Palm Beach
While Palm Beach may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Palm Beach and Onetangi Beach.
Blackpool
You'll appreciate the beaches during your time in Blackpool and you might want to plan a stop by Cable Bay Vineyard and Mudbrick Vineyard while you're in the area.
Reviewed on 2 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 15 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
Reviewed on 15 Apr. 2024
Popular places to visit
Sky Tower
Ascend the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand for stunning views over Auckland. Dine in the rotating restaurant or take a dive from a height of 194 metres.
Auckland Ferry Terminal
Combining historic architecture with modern facilities, Auckland’s harbourside transport terminal is the place to embark on an adventure or simply sit with a coffee and watch the world go by.
Eden Park
Catch an event at Eden Park during your trip to Auckland. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
SkyCity Casino
Why not roll the dice with a visit to SkyCity Casino during your time in Auckland? Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.
Auckland Zoo
Just eight minutes from Auckland city centre white rhinos and a pride of lions roam. Wander safely and at your leisure amid tigers and elephants at Auckland Zoo.
University of Auckland
Enjoy the student vibe at University of Auckland during your visit to Auckland. Visit the area's shops or amble around its beautiful beaches.
Activities
From Auckland: Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Day Trip with Lunch
Small-Group Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland with Lunch
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's Aquarium Tickets
Waiheke Island: Ferry & Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus Tickets
Auckland to Rotorua Private Tour
Auckland: Waiheke Island Fast Ferry Pass
Reviews of Waiheke Island
5/5 - Excellent
We took a car so travelled round the island to different vinyards. Had a top rate dinner at 372 restaurant, 21 The Strand Onetangi Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Love it, would prefer a few less people, but that is just being selfish!!!
5/5 - Excellent
Will be back to explore more in summer/autumn. Weather was not our friend. Would advise against going to Dellows if you do a hop on hop off bus trip or wine tour
5/5 - Excellent
Love Waiheke but would not recommend this as accommodation sorry, it was tired and the kitchen cupboards and utensils were unclean and greasy.....
5/5 - Excellent
Wineries are all excellent but by far the favourite was Peacock Sky.
5/5 - Excellent
Goldie Estate is a lovely venue for a wedding.
- Mudbrick Vineyard
- Matiatia Wharf Ferry Terminal
- Cable Bay Vineyard
- Eco Zip Adventures
- Tantalus Estate
- Onetangi Forest and Bird Reserve
- Wild on Waiheke
- Stonyridge Vineyard
- Waiheke Golf Club
- Waiheke Museum & Historic Village
- Te Motu Vineyard
- Goldie Vineyard
- Te Haahi-Goodwin Reserve
- Atawhai Whenua Reserve
- Waiheke Community Art Gallery
- Obsidian Vineyard
- Stony Batter Historic Reserve
- Dead Dog Bay
- Passage Rock Winery
- Dellows Waiheke Distillery