Just 40 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island feels like another world. With its pristine beaches, boutique vineyards, art galleries and hidden coves, Waiheke blends laid-back charm with unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re sipping local wine, kayaking turquoise bays or hiking coastal trails, Waiheke has something for every traveller.
Where to Go on Waiheke Island
Oneroa and Little Oneroa
Oneroa is the island’s main village and the perfect place to start. This vibrant beachside hub offers a range of restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, a cinema and art galleries. It’s practical too, with amenities like a bank, post office and pharmacy.
Just around the headland lies Little Oneroa – a safe, family-friendly beach complete with picnic tables, BBQs and a playground. Grab a wood-fired pizza from Dragonfired or enjoy classic Kiwi fish and chips from the local takeaway before heading to the beach.
Palm Beach and Onetangi
Palm Beach is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Located just 4km from Oneroa, this sweeping bay boasts golden sands, calm swimming waters and BBQ spots.
Further east, Onetangi is home to the island’s longest beach and a growing food and wine scene. Enjoy brunch or dinner with sea views at Three Seven Two, Charlie Farley’s or Ki Māha. While here, try the EcoZip zipline adventure, stroll the Onetangi Loop Track, or visit the nearby Forest and Bird Reserve for peaceful bush walks.
Experience Nature and Adventure
Waiheke Island is perfect for walkers and outdoor lovers. From cliff-top trails to forest glades and white-sand beaches, there are scenic routes for all abilities.
- Stony Batter Walkway: At the island’s eastern tip, this trail leads to historic WWII gun emplacements and tunnels.
- Whakanewha Regional Park: Great for picnics, birdwatching and coastal swimming. It’s also a prime sunset spot.
- Enclosure Bay: A calm, rock-sheltered pool perfect for snorkelling and safe swimming.
- Te Whau Point: Known for its elevated walking paths and striking views across the Hauraki Gulf.
- Woodside Bay: A peaceful southern beach and top windsurfing spot, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds.
You might also spot dolphins or even orcas offshore which is a regular highlight for lucky visitors.
Local Culture and Art
Waiheke is home to more than 100 working artists. Browse locally made ceramics, glasswork, sculpture and paintings at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery in Oneroa. Their regularly changing exhibitions and shop offer a glimpse into the island’s creative spirit. Don’t miss the bi-annual Sculpture on the Gulf, one of New Zealand’s premier outdoor art events.
For Māori culture and history, explore the meaning behind the island’s original name, Te Motu-arai-roa, “the long sheltering island”, and discover local crafts inspired by tradition, including pounamu carving and flax weaving.
Waiheke’s Famous Vineyards and Olive Groves
Waiheke’s warm climate, sea breezes and mineral-rich soil make it ideal for winemaking. Known as the “Island of Wine,” Waiheke is home to over 30 boutique vineyards producing award-winning reds and elegant whites.
Top varietals include Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Sample them at renowned vineyards like Goldwater Estate, Stonyridge, Cable Bay and Mudbrick – many of which offer tasting rooms, vineyard restaurants and sweeping sea views.
The island also produces superb olive oil. Waiheke’s olive groves craft small-batch, extra virgin oils rich in antioxidants and flavour – a perfect souvenir or gift.
Island Markets and Local Life
For a slice of island life, visit the Ostend Saturday Market. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and artisan food to vintage finds and handmade gifts. Ostend is also the island’s main service centre, with a supermarket, pharmacy and hardware stores.
Other charming spots include:
- Surfdale: A village with cafés and a relaxed vibe, just minutes from Oneroa.
- Blackpool: A quiet tidal beach, perfect for a peaceful swim at high tide.
- Picnic Bay and Shelly Beach: Great for a secluded break or a quiet picnic with a view.
- Orapiu and Man O’ War Bay: A little more off the beaten track, these spots offer breath-taking views and top-rated wineries like Man O’ War.
How to Get to Waiheke Island
Ferries to Waiheke run frequently from Downtown Auckland or Devonport with Fullers360, while SeaLink offers services from Half Moon Bay, including vehicle transport. Once on the island, explore by bus, taxi, bike, scooter or rental car. The island’s compact size makes it easy to navigate, and many of the best sights are just a short ride apart.
Where to Stay on Waiheke
Accommodation on Waiheke ranges from luxury beach houses and vineyard lodges to cosy B&Bs and budget-friendly hostels. For the best experience, plan to stay overnight – with so much to see and do, a single day rarely feels like enough.
Explore Waiheke on a 28-Day New Zealand Tour
From award-winning wines to white-sand beaches, Waiheke Island is an unforgettable stop on your New Zealand adventure. And the best way to experience it all? Join our 28-day small group tour of New Zealand. It’s the ultimate journey, packed with extraordinary sights, expert guidance and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Book now to discover Waiheke – and so much more – on our 28-day New Zealand group tour. View the itinerary here.
