From world-class vineyards to unique eco-tours, Waiheke Island offers something for everyone.
As well as many stunning beaches and award-winning vineyards and restaurants, Waiheke Island offers an array of other attractions, experiences and activities that are guaranteed to keep you entertained whether you’re there for a short weekend break or for a long, relaxing holiday.
If you're a lover of nature or adventure, consider riding a zipline at EcoZip Adventures, try your hand at archery or give clay-bird shooting a go at Wild on Waiheke. And if you've still got time to spare, check out the Waiheke Community Art Gallery in Oneroa, which brings the best of New Zealand art to the island and offers the best of Waiheke art to the world, or if you're feeling really adventurous, jump on a horse and trek around the island with a Horse Tour. There are many scenic walks on Waiheke to pick from, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging walks that require a reasonable level of fitness.
If you're on Waiheke Island on a Saturday morning or early afternoon, head on over to The Ostend Market to meet the island's colourful locals, buy local produce, grab some tasty cooked delights, get a pampering session and more! If you've got kids, they will love the huge bouncy castle, games and toys, and maybe the talented storyteller Tania Batt will drop in to share one of her tales!
Little Oneroa Beach offers a great place for the children to swim and play in the playground, and if you fancy a bite to eat, head across the street for a classic fish and chips meal or an ice cream. There really is something for everyone!
Vineyards and restaurants of Waiheke
Treat yourself to a scrumptious lunch at a world-class vineyard and some wine tasting during your visit.
If tickling your taste buds is more your thing, then you won't want to miss visiting Waiheke's top award winning vineyards and restaurants.
Waiheke is a renowned wine region that produces critically acclaimed artisan wines and provides distinctive wine and cuisine experiences. Predominantly a red wine region, over half of all wine produced on the island are red varietals. Many of the wines have won awards both internationally and domestically.
If you're keen to plan a tour of various vineyards and wineries around the island, look no further than the Waiheke Island of Wine's map and wine guide.
Many vineyards also provide delicious food at their own cafe or restaurant.
Have the freedom of exploring at your own pace when you travel with your car on the ferry to Waiheke Island.
Arriving at Kennedy Point
Drive off the ferry and head up Donald Bruce Road to begin your adventure on the island. The Eastern end of the island is not as extensively serviced by public transport, meaning there is little traffic congestion, which makes for the ideal driving experience.
The loop road is a 55km round trip from Oneroa Village, so allow a minimum of 2.5 to 4 hours for a trip with breaks along the way. Click on the links below to check out our selection of five suggested Waiheke Island road trips for you, or to help you tailor your own.
Island maps can be picked up at our ferry terminals or onboard the ferry.
Read about Kiwi fashion designer, Karen Walker's journey around Waiheke with her car here.
Island facilities
Waiheke is a well-serviced island and has everything you need for a short or long break.
On the island, you will find all the facilities you would expect when travelling including:
- Supermarket
- Petrol station
- Medical Centre/Pharmacy
- Buses
- Taxis
- Bank
- Public toilets
- Accommodation
- Liquor stores
- Ferry terminal
- Airfield
- Visitor Information Centre
There are so many great events on Waiheke Island
November 2021:
Ongoing:
- Sculpt Oneroa - 11 Dec to 14 Feb - Oneroa Village
- Ostend Saturday Markets - every Saturday from 8.30am to 1pm inside the Ostend War Memorial Hall.
- Oneroa Market Day - first Sunday of every month
See more upcoming events on Waiheke here!