MAKE A WAIHEKEND OF IT

Auckland’s island escape is the perfect all-rounder

STORY & IMAGES COURTESY OF TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

Waiheke Island may be just a short and scenic 40-minute ferry ride from the centre of Auckland’s central business district, but on arrival the picturesque wine-lover’s paradise feels like it’s a world away. Surrounded by the waters of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, Waiheke Island has long been a haven for free spirits, artists and Auckland families on beach holidays. These days, Waiheke is a favourite island getaway for Aucklanders attracted to beautiful white sandy beaches and historic sites, a thriving food scene, an eclectic mix of artists, an extensive list of boutique and luxury accommodation, brazen architectural delights and some of New Zealand’s most coveted vineyards and wineries. Waiheke Island may be New Zealand’s thirdmost populated island but with a permanent population of around 9,000 and only 92 km2 land area, it’s hardly overcrowded.

Mudbrick Winery

ISLAND OF WINE

With approximately 216ha of vineyards and 30 wineries, Waiheke Island is one of New Zealand’s award-winning wine-growing regions. Known for producing flavoursome drops from mainly cabernet sauvignon, merlot, malbec, cabernet franc and chardonnay grape varieties, Waiheke wines are enhanced by the stony soil that lies beneath and the sea breeze that surrounds. With a dry, sunny microclimate, the island has earned the affectionate title ‘Island of Wine’.

Waiheke Island

Most wineries and vineyards on Waiheke have cellar doors, many with on-site cafés or restaurants that can be explored on dedicated wine tours or even by bike or scooter, making the island the perfect getaway for wine and food lovers.

Waiheke’s compact size makes it a perfect destination for a day-trip or weekend break and the choices, when it comes INSPIRED to wine tasting or tempting the palate TO VISIT with gourmet cuisine and locally grown NEW ZEALAND? produce, are endless. Check out our tours here

Wineries like the Provence-style Mudbrick offer uninterrupted views of Rangitoto Island in the Waitematā Harbour, and a chance to view Auckland’s cityscape from afar. Stonyridge, nestled amongst a swathe of olive groves, is dedicated in its quest to produce New Zealand’s finest cabernet blends and offers a taste of the south of France with a distinctly Kiwi twist. Have a tasting at Batch Winery, a fine example of outstanding contemporary New Zealand architecture, enjoy fine dining at elegant Tantalus Estate, or taste and nibble at relaxed Te Motu.

Waiheke Island

ISLAND ADVENTURES

The island might be best known as a must-do for wine enthusiasts, but the numerous white sand beaches also make Waiheke a great place to relax, unwind or make the most of on the water activities.

Many Waiheke beaches offer perfect conditions for swimming and the beautiful coastline, small bays and marine wildlife are easily explored by kayak, boat and stand up paddle boarding (SUP).

From land to sea, nature is never out of sight on Waiheke and one of the best ways to experience it is from above. EcoZip Adventures Waiheke gives an altogether different experience of the island, allowing visitors to fly through the trees on flying fox zip lines, or keep their feet firmly on the ground with an eco-walk through ancient New Zealand forest, exploring native New Zealand flora and fauna and the history of this special island.

At the eastern end of Waiheke a historic adventure awaits. Stony Batter Historic Reserve is a labyrinth of underground tunnels – originally dug by hand – dating back to WWII, complete with gun emplacements.

Named for the surrounding dramatic rocky outcrops and rugged landscape, a short walk allows visitors to learn about Stony Batter’s fascinating history, while experiencing some of the island’s most stunning landscapes.

Stony Batter

BOUTIQUE DELIGHTS

There are plenty of accommodation options on Waiheke to suit all styles and budgets.

Sitting above the expansive sun-kissed bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa, the closest of Waiheke’s towns to the incoming and outgoing Auckland ferries, is The Boatshed. With five guest suites, two bungalows and the newly opened owner's villa, the Boatshed is a modern take on the Kiwi bach (beach cottage) and offers a luxury, quintessential Kiwi experience.

In the heart of Oneroa, The Oyster Inn is a quirky seafood restaurant where visitors can shop and stay all in one place. Founded by former London fashion and entertainment executives, Andrew Glenn (Louis Vuitton, Topshop) and Jonathan Rutherfurd Best (designer) this boutique accommodation oozes New Zealand sophistication and style. The three guest rooms are simple yet elegant and the on-site restaurant offers a tantalising selection of freshly caught seafood with top local produce.

Those wanting to arrive at the Oyster Inn in style can take a seaplane from Auckland’s city harbour. Auckland Seaplanes take visitors soaring over Rangitoto – Auckland’s most prominent volcanic landmark – before landing on Oneroa Beach ready for a feast of the senses to begin. They also fly regularly to Man O’ War Bay for lunches at the beachside vineyard restaurant.

The Oyster Inn

WAIHEKE’S EVENTS

Experience a real taste of the island by taking in an event – from weekend markets where fresh produce and locally crafted gifts can be found, to the spectacular biennial art festival Headland Sculpture on the Gulf (March 2022) – a two-kilometre coastal walkway featuring a diverse mix of sculptures created by New Zealand artists.

The Waiheke Walking Festival (5-21 November) is the perfect way to explore the island on foot with guided walking tours, while keen runners might prefer the Wharf to Wharf Fun Run (January), or the Waiheke Half Marathon (May).

Celebrate the island’s good food and great wine with the Waiheke Wine and Food Festival in May, held over three days at more than 10 vineyards. Every Easter, the Jazz Festival comes to town, bringing good music and vibes over the long weekend.

The Waiheke Island Garden Safari (November) is a self-drive or cycle event that shows off the island’s most interesting gardens, along with workshops and events. Year round, the Waiheke Ostend Market every Saturday morning is a favourite with locals and weekenders alike.

Waiheke Island

MAIN IMAGE: Looking down from a hill on Waiheke Island