3 minute read
Waiheke Island Must Do's
Ferry Crossing
Sail to Waiheke on the 40-minute passenger ferry departing downtown Auckland. You can also take your car with SeaLink, leaving from Hamer Street in Wynyard Quarter.
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Island of Wine
A self-contained bubble of viticulture, Waiheke vineyards are famed for their world-renowned range of reds and whites. Thanks to its own microclimate, Waiheke Island is both drier and generally a degree or two warmer than Auckland.
Stony Batter
This historic reserve features gun sites and other impressive remains dating back to World War II.
Vineyards
Sprinkled with over 30 vineyards, most places offer wine tasting and decadent dining, as well as outdoor terraces for summer and cosy fireplaces during winter months. Download the NZ Wineries Waiheke Wine app for interactive wine maps.
Waiheke Horse Tours
Partner up with a sweet-natured horse for a trek to Waiheke’s prettiest and most secluded bays. Tours are tailored to suit all levels of experience.
Waiheke Distilling Co.
A new boutique gin distillery straddling Waiheke’s eastern reaches, sit on the beanbags strewn across the lawn; G&T in hand and sea views in the distance.
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus
Visit Waiheke’s best vineyards, galleries, shops and cafés on a doubledecker bus. Perfect for rainproof adventures, the bus is fully enclosed.
Dining on Waiheke Island - credit Todd Eyre
EcoZip Adventures
Soar above native forest and a working vineyard by zipline. Your three-hour thrill starts with pickup from the ferry terminal and a tour of Waiheke on the way to the forest. Ride the giant ziplines and polish off the day with a bush walk.
Wild on Waiheke
Test your dexterity and precision with archery in between the vines, clay pigeon shooting, pétanque and volleyball.
Wine Picnics
Goldie Estate is Waiheke’s oldest vineyard. Picnic amidst the vines with a wicker basket full of produce from the winery’s deli. Armed with Rosé and rugs, head to the vineyard’s private picnic spot overlooking Putiki Bay.
Island Scoot
Hire a moped or e-bike on Waiheke Island, or if you’re feeling snazzy, pick up a retro Italian Lambretta from Island Scoot in Oneroa. They also have doubleseater scooters for duos with only one experienced driver.
Bike Rides
Good weather days call for sun-soaked bike rides along the Rangihoua mountain bike trails or within Whakanewha Regional Park.
Sculptures
The Connells Bay collection consists of over 30 permanent works by prominent New Zealand artists. As the trail unfolds across the magnificent landscape, you’ll uncover incredible site-specific sculptures.
Rangitoto Island - credit Todd Eyre
RANGITOTO ISLAND MUST DO'S
Summit Hike
The youngest of Auckland’s volcanoes cuts a striking figure on the horizon with ferries to its base taking 25 minutes from downtown Auckland. Allow at least two hours to hike to the summit. The top grants sensational 360-degree views and peeps into a colossal crater.
Lava Caves
Allow extra time to explore the island’s lava caves, carved out from previous flowing lava. A 15-minute detour from the summit, look for signage detailing the route there.
