Overview

Waiheke Island, the Hauraki Gulf’s “Island of Wine,” is just a 40‑minute ferry from Auckland yet feels worlds away.

Famous for boutique vineyards, sculpture trails, pristine beaches and forest-lined walking tracks, Waiheke is a getaway for foodies, artists and nature lovers alike.

  • – Over 30 boutique wineries producing Bordeaux‑style reds and award‑winning whites.
  • – Coastal walks, native forest reserves and soft-sand beaches like Onetangi and Palm Beach.
  • – Galleries, sculpture installations and biennial Sculpture on the Gulf exhibition.
  • – WWII tunnels and volcanic rock landscapes at Stony Batter Historic Reserve.

Food & Drink

A gourmet haven, Waiheke offers world-class dining, artisan produce and island-style wine experiences.

  • Cable Bay Vineyard – Waterfront cellar door and restaurant with sweeping views.
  • Mudbrick Vineyard – Long lunches, wine pairings and romantic sunsets.
  • Poderi Crisci & Obsidian – Boutique tastings with Italian flair and local terroir.
  • Island markets – Oneroa and Onetangi events with cheeses, oils and baked goods.

Adventure & Wilderness

Connect with nature on Waiheke’s trails, coastline, forests and historic sites.

  • Southern Coastal Walks – Trails between Matiatia and Cable Bay with sweeping sea views.
  • Stony Batter Reserve – WWII tunnels, gun emplacements and volcanic formations.
  • Kayaking & paddleboarding – Calm bays like Oneroa and Palm Beach offer ideal conditions.
  • EcoZip Adventure – Zipline across valleys and forest with scenic views.

Must‑See Highlights

Not to be missed—iconic experiences unique to Waiheke.

  • Onetangi Beach: Wide, soft-sand beach with cafes and water activities.
  • Sculpture on the Gulf: Biennial art trail on the headland near Matiatia.
  • Stony Batter Historic Reserve: WWII tunnels and dramatic eastern coastline.
  • Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant: Signature destination with olive groves and sea views.

Shopping

Discover boutique art, local crafts and gourmet food while exploring island villages.

  • Oneroa Village galleries – Island artists, ceramics and jewellery.
  • Olive oil farms – Organic oils and tastings at on-island growers.
  • Island fashion boutiques – Relaxed beachwear and resort fashion.

Photography

Snap iconic vistas of vineyards, beaches and art in breathtaking settings.

  • Hauraki Gulf views from vineyards – Rolling vines with turquoise waters below.
  • Sculpture on the Gulf at sunset – Installations framed by golden light.
  • Stony Batter ridgelines – Rugged coastlines with unique rock textures.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Peak wine season with festivals, beach life and long days.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Cooler evenings, grape harvests and fewer crowds.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Native blooms and art events including Sculpture on the Gulf.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Cosy vineyard dining and brisk coastal walks.

Explore Nearby

  • Rotoroa Island – Wildlife sanctuary with art and heritage walks.
  • Auckland CBD – Dining, galleries and nightlife just 40 mins by ferry.
  • Coromandel Peninsula – Remote beaches and forest hikes across the gulf.