Waiheke Island, A Locals Guide - Must know before you go
Waiheke Island, located just 17 kilometres from Auckland City in the heart of the Hauraki Gulf, offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Separated by the sparkling blue waters of the stunning Waitemata Harbour, this island haven is easily accessible via regular ferry services from Downtown Auckland’s Ferry Building. In just 40 minutes, you can step ashore on Waiheke and leave the noise of city life behind. With its peace and tranquillity, Waiheke Island feels like a world away, offering a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty. At Waiheke Holiday Homes, we love sharing this beauty with the world! Get in touch with us to learn about the gorgeous homes we can offer for your Waiheke Island Getaway.
Matiatia Bay, Welcome to the Peace & Tranquility of Waiheke Island
What is there to do on Waiheke?
Explore the diverse attractions Waiheke Island has to offer. From boutique wineries and award-winning restaurants to lively music festivals and beachfront horse races, there really is something for everyone. Visit bustling weekend markets filled with local produce and shops showcasing unique local crafts. Waiheke Island is also renowned for its rich art and culture, featuring numerous art galleries, artists’ studios, a scenic sculpture walk, and an inspiring art trail.
Top Attractions on Waiheke - Waiheke Island is home to some of New Zealand’s best kept secrets and attractions. Here are some of our top picks to help you plan your Holiday on Waiheke.
Waiheke Island Beaches - With over 133 km of pristine coastline, Waiheke is surrounded by Golden sand swimming beaches and Secret Fishing spots galore.
Cafés and Restaurants on Waiheke - There's endless amazing food options on Waiheke, from Cafes, coffee and cabinet food all the way through to elite fine-dining restaurants - let the Waiheke Food Scene tantalise your tastebuds no matter the occasion.
Waiheke Island Villages - Whether you're looking for Botiques or markets, galleries or restaurants with a view; one of Waiheke's villages will be a perfect match. At Waiheke Holiday Homes we have a property to suit, use our property search function to find properties in your perfect area.
Waiheke has something for everyone! Adrenaline pumping Ecozip, Peaceful Strolls on Oneroa or Sampling local wines at Mudbrick
When is the Best time to Visit Waiheke?
Summer is undeniably the busiest season on Waiheke Island, and it’s easy to see why—with sun-soaked beaches and the sparkling sea right at our doorstep, it’s a true paradise. But while the island truly comes alive in the summer, there’s plenty to love about Waiheke in the cooler months as well. From the cosy charm of boutique vineyards to the tranquillity of scenic winter walks, Waiheke offers a magical experience year-round. Attracting over 900,000 visitors annually, Waiheke Island is a must-visit destination, no matter the season.
The Waiheke Climate - While technically part of Auckland, the Waiheke Climate is slightly warmer than Auckland, with less humidity and rain, and more sunshine hours! The mild climate of Waiheke Island makes visits year-round enjoyable, with each season offering something unique for travellers.
Summer Holidays on Waiheke - Have you been dreaming of a Summer Holiday on Beautiful Waiheke Island? Get in touch with us today and let us take the hard work out of finding the perfect home for your needs.
Winter Deals - Always wanted to see Waiheke but not able to find the time during the silly season? Make the most out of Waiheke during the off-Season with 3rd night free deals! And take an extra long weekend on us 😊
Grape Harvest Season - For the Wine connoisseurs, the Waiheke Wine Scene becomes a hive of activity during the Grape Harvest Season, around February - April, the best time to consider a Waiheke Wine Tour perhaps!
What’s on on Waiheke - There’s always something happening on Waiheke, whether it’s The Sculpture on the Gulf, a New Years Dance Party or Local Waiheke Theatre - there’s always something exciting going on!
The stunning Palm Beach - Just one of Waiheke's dream locations
All you need to know before you get to Waiheke
How to Get to Waiheke Island
While some of us are lucky enough to enjoy a scenic helicopter ride to one of the islands many helipads, most visitors to Waiheke will arrive via one of the ferry service options. We've pulled together a great guide to Waiheke Island Ferries with all of the details you need to know!
Waiheke Passenger Ferries - Passenger Ferries to Waiheke Island conveniently depart from Queens Wharf in downtown Auckland, with services running every half hour during the summer. You have two passenger ferry options to choose from: the Island Direct ferry, which allows you to book in advance and secure your seat, and the Fullers ferry, both of which are dedicated passenger services. You can bring your luggage, your pup and your bike on the passenger ferry and it links directly to the bus transport on the island, a perfect travel option
Waiheke Vehicular Ferry - If you'd like to bring your car to Waiheke, the Sealink Ferry is the ideal choice, offering seamless vehicle transport to the island. Departing Half Moon Bay & Wynyard quarter, they've got sailings to suit.
With these options, getting to Waiheke Island is both easy and flexible, ensuring a smooth start to your island getaway.
Matiatia Ferry Terminal, the arrival point for Island Direct & Fullers Passenger ferries
How to get around on Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island offers a variety of convenient transport options to suit every traveller, we break down all the best options in our getting around on Waiheke guide. Use your HopCard to catch local AT buses that connect you to key destinations across the island. During the summer, you can simplify your travel by combining your ferry ride with Fullers Hop On Hop Off Bus tickets, making it easy to explore Waiheke’s top attractions. Buses conveniently meet the ferries at Matiatia Terminal, ensuring a seamless journey. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, e-bikes, rental cars, and scooters are also available, allowing you to discover Waiheke Island’s beauty on your own terms.
Finding it all too confusing? Our team can not only recommend you the perfect property, but also help you decide the best transport options for your stay, get in touch now.
Best Waiheke Accommodation
We might be a little bit biased, but we truly do believe Waiheke Holiday Homes offers the best accommodation on the island! With decades of experience and a huge range of properties, we would love to help you find the perfect home. Want to read more about why we think Waiheke Holiday Homes stands out as the premiere booking service on the island, you'll find it all on our About Waiheke Holiday Homes page.
Where to stay on Waiheke - Looking for your perfect Waiheke Holiday Home but not sure where to stay? Get in touch with us today and we'll match you to the perfect area on Waiheke to stay for your unique needs.
Pet Friendly Waiheke - We love pets on Waiheke! And there’s plenty for them to do here, so your pet can come to Waiheke too. Check out our Top Pet Friendly Accommodation on Waiheke here.
After some personalised advice instead? Get in touch with us today for tailored and expert local advice from our dedicated and friendly team ☺️
Breathtaking Views across the Gulf from one of our stunning homes, At Waters Edge
Waihekes Unique Nature and Environment
Waiheke Island is a paradise of sandy bays, dramatic coastal walkways, and charming, laid-back villages. The island is home to a diverse, creative, and multi-talented community, where free-range kids enjoy the beach as their playground. Here, you won’t find any traffic lights or fast food chains—just the simplicity and tranquillity of island life. Ask any Waihekean what makes their island special, and the answer is always the same: the deep sense of community. This heartfelt connection is what truly sets Waiheke Island apart, making it a unique and welcoming place to live and visit.
Beaches on Waiheke - Waiheke Island, blessed with its own warm, dry micro-climate, is a coastal paradise. Emerald waters lap at the rocky bays on the landward side, while the ocean-facing shores feature some of the best sandy beaches in New Zealand. These white-sand beaches and turquoise waters make Waiheke a favourite escape for both city dwellers and visitors. With safe swimming, great fishing, and coastal walking tracks, Waiheke’s beaches offer a perfect retreat.
Waiheke Walks - The best way to see Waiheke Island one step at a time. Waiheke Island’s collection of scenic walks offers the perfect way to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a short and easy stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a walk to suit every level. Discover the full range of Waiheke Island’s walks here.
Explore the Diverse Landscape of Waiheke Island - Upon arriving on Waiheke Island, you’ll be captivated by its diverse and stunning landscapes. The island offers a mesmerising tapestry of natural beauty, from expansive vineyards and olive groves to rugged coastal cliffs and golden sandy beaches. The terrain is notably hilly, with few flat areas, which adds to its dramatic scenery. Whether you’re wandering through lush vineyards or exploring the striking coastline, Waiheke Island’s varied landscapes promise endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.
Waiheke Island’s Wildlife - Waiheke Island’s native wildlife has faced significant threats in the past from pests like stoats, ferrets, and weasels. However, unlike many other parts of New Zealand, Waiheke has never had possums, which has helped preserve its natural ecosystem. For years, dedicated locals and community groups have united to implement effective pest control solutions, leading to remarkable success. Thanks to these efforts, native wildlife populations have increased in recent years.
In September 2017, The Waiheke Collective was formed as a network to support and amplify conservation initiatives across the island. The collective later established Te Korowai o Waiheke Trust, with the ambitious goal of transforming Waiheke into the world’s first predator-free urban island. In January 2020, the Trust launched a two-year stoat eradication project, setting up an extensive trapping network spanning the island. This initiative has been highly successful, marking a significant milestone in Waiheke’s journey toward a predator-free future.
Just one of the glorious walks of the Te Ara Hura trail
The Waiheke Culture and Arts
Waiheke Art Scene - Experience Waiheke Island’s thriving arts and culture by visiting local art galleries and creative hubs. Attend art exhibitions that showcase the island's unique cultural offerings and immerse yourself in its creative spirit. Whether you’re a passionate art enthusiast or just curious about the island's vibrant culture, Waiheke Island offers endless inspiration and artistic experiences at every turn.
Waiheke Events & Festivals - There's always something exciting happeing on Waiheke, whether Gardens, Jazz or Food is your love-language, Waiheke has something to offer. Read more about what's happening on Waiheke.
Waiheke's Sculpture on the Gulf - the Art Gallery without walls
Waiheke Wine & Food
Award Winning Wine on Waiheke - Waiheke Island has earned its reputation as New Zealand’s ‘Island of Wine,’ thanks to a passionate community of award-winning winegrowers. These experts have masterfully harnessed the island’s unique maritime climate and ancient soil structures to cultivate classic grape varieties that produce red and white wines with distinctive and unforgettable varietal character.
With only 216 hectares of vineyards spread among 30 dedicated growers, Waiheke’s wine production remains small and exclusive, making each bottle a coveted treasure. Wine enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the release of top vintages, knowing that Waiheke wines offer a unique expression of the island’s exceptional terroir. Not sure which Vineyards to visit during your Waiheke Holiday? We've rounded up the best Waiheke Vineyards to save you the time!
Fresh and Fabulous Food on Waiheke - Dining on Waiheke Island is a culinary journey deeply rooted in the island’s rich foodie culture, where the emphasis is on locally grown and freshly harvested ingredients. The island's restaurants and eateries pride themselves on offering a diverse range of dishes that reflect the seasonal bounty of the region.
Savour succulent fresh oysters harvested directly from the pristine waters of Te Matuku Bay, and enjoy the taste of award-winning olive oil produced right here on the island. Pair these delicacies with other locally-made specialty foods, all perfectly complemented by wines from Waiheke’s top boutique vineyards. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to experience the flavours of Waiheke, every meal promises to be a celebration of local produce and culinary excellence.
If you think these views are incredible, wait until you taste the wine - Mudbrick Vineyard
Waiheke Island: A Historical Overview
Waiheke Island, part of the Hauraki Gulf, has been inhabited since early Māori history, with notable visits from migratory canoes like Aotea, Tākitimu, and Mātaatua. While several islands in the gulf were visited, only larger ones like Waiheke and Aotea/Great Barrier Island sustained permanent settlements.
In the 14th century, the western forests of Waiheke were heavily impacted by eruptions from Rangitoto Island. By the 18th and early 19th centuries, the eastern part of the island was dense with ancient kauri trees, while the western side featured kānuka and mānuka, indicating newer growth.
Waiheke, originally known as Te Motu-arai-roa ("the long sheltering island"), was later called Motu-Wai-Heke ("island of Cascading waters"). The island was a significant site for the Marutūāhu tribes, particularly Ngāti Maru and Ngāti Pāoa, who settled here after returning from the Musket Wars.
In 1836, Thomas Maxwell founded a shipyard at Man o'War Bay, utilising local timber. Ngāti Pāoa actively engaged in supplying materials for European ships and established plantations for wheat and vegetables. The shipbuilding industry thrived until the 1860s, after which farming in the eastern bays declined.
By the mid-19th century, large-scale land purchases by private individuals and the Crown reduced Ngāti Pāoa's holdings to a small area at Te Huruhi. Over time, this land was also sold, and by the early 20th century, the island was largely deforested and used for cattle pastures.
Waiheke gained popularity as a seaside resort in the 1880s, with steamers offering day trips to the island. Affordable land at Ostend was first subdivided in 1915, with subsequent subdivisions at Surfdale, Palm Beach, Rocky Bay, and Oneroa in the 1920s.
During World War II, gun emplacements were built at Stony Batter to protect Auckland's Waitematā Harbour, though they were never used in combat. Today, the site, including extensive tunnels, is open to visitors.
Waiheke's Humble Beginnings