Waiheke Island

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
25/08/2025
Waiheke Island, in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, seen from a light airplane on the way to Great Barrier Island. Looking towards the east.
Ingolfson, Wikimedia Commons

Waiheke Island, a short ferry ride from Auckland, offers a tranquil escape renowned for its award-winning vineyards and pristine white sand beaches. Visitors are drawn to its gourmet food and wine experiences, as well as the diverse range of activities amidst beautiful natural scenery.

For those seeking social interaction, Oneroa Village provides a hub with beachfront cafes, restaurants, and local art shops, fostering a lively atmosphere. Additionally, backpacker hostels on the island, such as Waiheke Backpackers Hostel, offer a calm yet friendly environment where guests can connect in communal areas, although it is generally not considered a party destination.

Top 4 Things to do in Waiheke Island

Activities range from indulging in wine tasting experiences and relaxing on beautiful beaches to embarking on adventurous zipline rides and scenic hikes through natural landscapes.

1. Wine Tasting at Boutique Vineyards

Waiheke Island is celebrated for its award-winning vineyards, offering visitors the chance to sample exquisite wines in picturesque settings. Many vineyards provide cellar door tastings, and some feature restaurants for a leisurely lunch. Mudbrick and Cable Bay are popular choices known for their stunning views.

Cost: Individual wine tastings at cellar doors vary, but often start from NZD 10-20 per person per tasting flight. Guided wine tours typically range from NZD 140 to NZD 180+ per person, often including tastings at 3-4 vineyards and island transport.

Transport: Many vineyards are accessible via the public bus network, with an adult fare of NZD 2.80 per trip using an AT HOP card (card costs NZD 5 plus credit). The Fullers Hop-on Hop-off bus also serves many vineyards, costing around NZD 89, which includes the return ferry fare. Taxis are available but more expensive.

2. Beach Relaxation and Water Activities

Waiheke boasts numerous beautiful white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic. Oneroa Beach, the main beach, offers calm waters and amenities. Palm Beach is another popular spot, while Sandy Bay is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Exploring these bays provides a different perspective of the island's stunning coastline.

Cost: Access to beaches is free. Kayak and Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) rentals are available, with guided tours typically costing around NZD 125 for a 2-hour session. Self-hire options are available with variable pricing.

Transport: Oneroa, Palm Beach, and Onetangi beaches are well-served by the public bus network (NZD 2.80 per trip with AT HOP card). Matiatia Wharf, where ferries arrive, also offers kayak and SUP rentals, making it easily accessible on foot.

3. EcoZip Adventures Ziplining and Forest Walk

Experience Waiheke Island from a unique perspective by soaring over native bush and vineyards on a series of dual ziplines. This adventure typically includes three side-by-side ziplines, each over 200 metres long, followed by a guided walk through ancient native forest. It offers exhilarating views of the Hauraki Gulf and the island's diverse landscape.

Cost: Adult tickets are approximately NZD 139, and child tickets are around NZD 79. Prices may vary, with deals sometimes available. This cost usually includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal or Oneroa Village.

Transport: EcoZip Adventures provides complimentary pick-up from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal or Oneroa Village as part of the tour, often including a brief 'Waiheke Highlights' tour.

4. Hiking the Te Ara Hura Walking Track Network

The Te Ara Hura network offers over 100km of interconnected walking tracks that loop around the entire island. These trails vary in difficulty and allow visitors to explore Waiheke's diverse landscapes, including coastal paths with stunning views, native bush, and historic sites. Shorter sections, such as the walk from Matiatia to Oneroa, provide accessible options.

Cost: Walking the tracks is free. Guided walking tours are also available for those seeking a more curated experience, with prices varying depending on the duration and inclusions.

Transport: Many sections of the Te Ara Hura trail are accessible from various points around the island, including the Matiatia Ferry Terminal. Public buses (NZD 2.80 per trip with AT HOP card) can transport hikers to different starting points or pick-up locations along the routes.

Check out our other pages on Waiheke Island

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