Waiheke Island

We took the ferry over and opted for the hop-on hop-off bus to get around. Most of the shuttle stops are wineries but there is also the beach and the shopping area, if you prefer you can ride around without getting off. The views from the ferry are pretty amazing.

Waiheke Island is absolutely breathtaking, words alone can’t do its beauty justice. From pristine beaches to lush vineyards and charming landscapes, every corner feels like a slice of paradise waiting to be explored! 😍 Not to forget, its unique microclimate makes it one of the best places in the world to grow olives and produce world-class extra virgin olive oil.

Such a beautiful island escape! Loved driving around, taking in the stunning beaches and charming wineries. The vibe is super relaxing and peaceful — honestly felt like the trip should never end. Perfect spot to unwind and soak up nature.

The ferry ride to any of the islands is a must when you are in Auckland. Stunning & peaceful beaches & shores. Beautiful vineyards. The island has enough activities to choose from. There are scenic lookouts where you can enjoy the present doing nothing. There are no vehicles, other than the hop in hop off buses. These buses take you everywhere on the island.

You have to come to Waiheke. It's like a tropical holiday, but within a 45 min ferry ride from Auckland Central. I would recommend staying at Onetangi as there is a magnificent beach and three restaurants to have dinner at. Also, local cafe and bakery make excellent pastries. Travelling on the island is very easy with the local bus running from ferry terminal to Onetangi... a 20-minute trip ish. Along that route are many vineyard's which all offer tastings. They are excellent and they really know their stuff. All in all, it's a fantastic place to have a couple of days break.

Wonderful island experience with amazing beaches, art walks and wineries.

Beautiful small island with stunning views and a peaceful vibe. Waiheke Island offers great beaches, charming vineyards, and scenic walking trails. It's a perfect getaway for a day trip or a weekend escape. Highly recommended for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing break. With exciting ferry journey 🤩

A peaceful and breathtaking place located 40 minutes away from Auckland. The views are incredible. I did the Fullers360 Hop On Hop Off Tour and certainly enjoyed my time. If you’re planning to visit this little island, I highly recommend it!

This is a great little island to visit while in Auckland. It has tons of wineries and a hop on hop off bus that is convenient. Nice beaches and cafes. It's only a 40 minute boat ride from Auckland's CBD waterfront. Definitely worth a trip.

Waiheke Island is a stunning and short ferry ride from Auckland, New Zealand. This serene oasis of the bluest water has beautiful, world-class wineries, and unique activities, making for a perfect day trip with friends. Once you land on Waiheke, look behind you for wonderful views of the skyline of Auckland. Ready, set, sip wine!

We spent a day on Waiheke Island, one of the highlights of our trip. The island has over 9,400 residents and is a popular tourist destination. Just 40 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, it made for an easy day trip. Our plan was to visit various wineries and have a nice dinner in the evening. We did wine tastings at Wild Estate, Stonyridge Vineyard, and Cable Bay Vineyard; lunch at Heke Kitchen, Brewery & Distillery; and dinner at Mudbrick. Unfortunately we missed the bus we needed to take us form the ferry terminal to the first winery, and the next one wasn't departing for another half an hour or so. However, the bus driver of another bus route suggested we hop on his bus, which, while it would not take us to our destination, he could drop us off in an area with some shops where we could look around while we wait for our bus. It was a good suggestion, because waiting half an hour in a cute village is much more enjoyable than waiting half an hour at a ferry terminal with nothing to do. Also, while in the village, we had just enough time to stop into a store where my husband found a great rain jacket. So perhaps it was a good thing that we missed the bus! The first winery we went to was Wild On Waiheke, and we walked between Wild, Heke Kitchen, and Stonyridge Vineyard. We took a cab from Stonyridge to Cable Bay, which was in another area of the island, and from Mudbrick back to the ferry. Despite all the rain we experienced on our trip, we got pretty lucky with the weather while we were on Waiheke Island. If you go to Auckland, I highly recommend a day trip to Waiheke Island, especially if you like wine! [Yelp collections: NZ/Fiji 2023; New Zealand 2023; Wine Time!]

A must do if you're in NZ. Easy ferry service from Auckland and incredibly beautiful. We decided to go the morning of and it was very easy to get ferry tickets. We traveled around without a rental car and just used the bus system without issue. Lots of great wineries, restaurants, shops, etc.. The perfect tourist destination for a quick getaway from Auckland! Check out my other reviews for the specific stops of where we went.

This island is packed with beautiful beaches, wineries, nature walks, shopping & dining, and is scenic a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. It is famous for its wine production with 20 vineyards & cellar doors to sip wine, eat amazing food and gaze over the island. We visited the island independently & used a taxi to take us around & we walked back. The Auckland HOP card excludes the Waiheke Island ferry, but the card can be used on buses on the island. We purchased our round trip ticket for $49 each at the ferry terminal. Our day felt more like a Hawaiian island than a trip from Auckland. Basically, we spent 4 hour hiking, eating, drinking & exploring. We could have, would have stayed longer if there wasn't thunder & rain.

MUST GO. I've been told that Waiheke Island is the Hawaii of New Zealand, so I had high expectations for this place. But honestly, all my expectations were blown away once we arrived to Waiheke. We took the 40 minute ferry ($48 NZD round trip) from Auckland on a Thursday afternoon. The ferry was only about 20% full so it made for a nice and spacious ride. Once we arrived, we took a bus to our Airbnb, while staring out the bus windows at the already promising views. We ended up staying near Little Oneroa Beach. Luckily for us, when we made our way down the beach around 3pm on a Thursday afternoon, there was barely anyone there! It really almost seemed like a private beach. Think Hawaii without all the tourists...yeah! While on Little Oneroa Beach, we found a hike that led us to Fisherman's Rock. The hike was amazing. The views were absolutely breathtaking, like nothing I have ever seen before. The beautiful blue waters that never ends, mixed with the lush greenery and colorful flowers and plants, Waiheke Island is truly a paradise. If you find yourself in New Zealand, please do yourself a favor and come visit this incredible island!

Highlights: Food and Wine tasting Beaches and beautiful landscapes Walking trails Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

We're so lucky to have this island escape a mere 40min ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Sure, Waiheke has changed a lot in the last 10-15 years - it's much more developed & there's been a massive influx of Auckland holiday makers - but it's still managed to retain it's holiday charm. Life seems to be just a little bit slower on the Island. It's the perfect escape from the hustle & bustle of the big smoke - there's wineries (Mudbrick & Cable Bay are my faves), great restaurants, beaches and the locals are really friendly. Personally, I try to get there as must as possible and as for you tourist, in my book, it's an absolute must-do for anyone visiting Auckland. Pro tip: during Summer there are a gazillon weddings on the Island and so it can be tricky to get a taxi in the weekend. Keep this in mind when thinking about transport.

Soooo you're visiting Auckland? My number one recommendation? (Besides hiking in the Waitaks and exploring West coast beaches, of course): WAIHEKE ISLAND. Why? 'Cause you'll get a liiiittle taste of everything (most importantly: vino). For a mere $36 roundtrip fare, your day adventure to Waiheke island gets you: 1. A ferry cruise through the Hauraki Gulf. 2. Plentiful coastline beaches to explore/swim/play (a 20 minute walk from the Ferry dropoff gets you to Oneroa beach). 3. Wineries. There are several to choose from and, to be honest, it's difficult to go wrong. 4. Hiking options (there are some great paths right from the Ferry dropoff or grab a local bus and head to Rocky bay, where there are some longer hikes to be explored). PS: If you want to get more "off the beaten track" - you'll need a car or (my favorite option): a bike (of the mountain variety would be best). A snazzier way to put it? Waiheke's got some incline. Someone had to say it.

I have been to Waiheke Island many times in the past few years. It has become somewhat of an escape for me. It's perfect for when I need to have a break from city life but don't have much time on my hands. I've done day trips and also stayed there for as long as week. Every time I go I find something new to do. Whether it's a new café, vineyard, or simply a beach I hadn't discovered. We take our car over on the Half Moon Bay ferry, which is always really handy to have. However, we have also taken the buses, and hired scooters for a day. This was seriously fun and I'd really recommend you do it. The awesome thing about Waiheke is that it's free for all Gold Card holders. We have friends who go over all the time, even just for a few hours. The fact that we have this beautiful and culturally awesome Island on our doorstep is why I love Auckland City. We are so, so lucky.

I concure with previous reviews, considering this lovely is on a short ferry ride away , its like going somewhere different as its completely unlike it's big brother Auckland across the water. Unfortunately it took me 15 years before I got around to visiting here. It will not be another 15 before I return. For me, it's now classed as a must do if your anywhere near or visiting the big smoke of Auckland.

If you ever find yourself in New Zealand, please do not miss a chance to visit Waiheke Island. I've visited many an island, but nothing like this, with its wineries and gorgeous visuals. We rented bicycles and traversed the island that way, which was physically exhausting, but an adventure for sure. I'm not much of a cyclist so the hills really did damage, but with some strategic wine tastings along the way, it was worth it. This was a day trip for us and we had our fill. I'm not sure if I'd stay overnight, but maybe next time.

This lovely island is 45 minutes ferry ride from Auckland. It is a beautiful island with lots to see and do. We were on a tour and we visited a olive tree farm and a winery (2 separate places). I highly recommend seeing Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant - which has spectacular views of Auckland in the distance. I have told all my friend that this island is a must see on their travel itineraries!

This was sold to me as "Auckland's answer to Byron Bay", so of course I had to go. I even got up at 7am to get the early ferry over. I don't get up at 7am for anybody. Ergo, Waiheke freaking rules. It's a manageably small island about 40mins from Auckland (sit on the top of the ferry and suck up that sun, son), and the best way to see it is doing the spectacular walking trails. As soon as you hit land, turn left and bam, you're on the tramping trail that winds up over hills, down into gorgeous little crystal clear bays, wends past some serious architecture porn with houses that look like art galleries that look like houses, and also lands you at several damn fine beaches that you definitely need to swim in because they are sah-WEET, kid. The "go left from the ferry building" trail takes around 2hrs, allow 3-4 if you're stopping and swimming and just generally romping about like you own the place. Take water and a hat. And donuts. And wine. And your dog! Agree with the other reviewers, this is my #1 pick for Auckland. Saaaah good.

Waiheke is the perfect summer escape whether you're an Auckland local or another Kiwi hailing from another town or city or visiting from overseas. Definitely take your new-to-New Zealand friends here because the fun and beauty there is entirely worth the short ferry ride over. So many great things to do and see on the island- they boast several great vineyards with beautiful grapes turned to wine, hills, sea-views, greenery to relax in and food to pair with. Some also do craft beer also if you aren't a wino. They have great cafes and restaurants for a range of seafood dishes as well as classic coffee-bread in the cabinet. A lovely town centre with shopping, boutiques, a library, art galleries and access to Oneroa beach. And of course, all around- there are lots of beaches on this island away from the main island. Onetangi is particularly worth a mention- for it's size and great promenade of cafes/ restaurants alongside the water. Lots of water sports potential- with paddle boarding available, swimming of course as well as kayaking. Good for lovely walks and picnics and sun-soaking. Definitely a summer destination. Well worth a visit- best in summer but still visit if you can't catch it during that season.

Yes it has beautiful beaches but I went on the hop on hop off bus and saw area where people had dumped household appliances and furniture along the side of the road (noted as a regional park) on the map. A lot of the island is owned by one family who doesn't seem keen on selling much. Stories have it, that the family closed off the road and it was reopened for public.

You have to see Waiheke. It's the best thing in Auckland. Fullstop. It costs a bit to get there on the ferry, but it's worth it for the stunning natural environment, the people, the art galleries and cafes, and the totally unique vibe. Not so long ago Waiheke was the exclusive bastion of true-blue hippies, then the Island got roads and electricity, and suddenly and massive boom of property investment and commercial ventures that have (some say) spoilt it. I prefer to think of it as ever-evolving. The most special thing about the Island is summed up when you arrive at the dock, step ashore, and read the sign that says: 'Slow down, you're here'. And the best thing is, you really do.

Waiheke is a sick sick day, weekend, or week away. We often sail there, but even if you're catching the ferry, it's always a good time. Great views, great vibe and atmosphere. A bit pricier than Auckland, but such a nice fulfilling time hanging at Oneroa, Onetangi, or any of the vineyards. SO MANY VINEYARDS. All of the booze. mmmm. Wine tours and escapade, bus rides and New Year's Eves...Waiheke is a great place for it all. The only caveat - I will say that it's somewhat a weather dependent destination.

this place is amazing country feel. Amazing Winery here. A must see and do place with you come to New Zealand. a fairy with take you out to this Island for the day.

Waiheke Island is the most talked about thing in Auckland, followed closely by the Coromandel. As a newbie living in Auckland I had it clearly written up as my number one destination - as soon as a visitor popped on over anyway.. So I, we, did! This summer, 2013 in fact. We hired the ferry and bus tour package through the company Fullers, they are very big with their advertising, in print everywhere, so couldn't miss it even if you tried. The Island is lovely, perhaps, dare I saw it, over hyped a bit too much though. No hate mail please. The outdoor annual sculpture exhibition was in it's last week which was nice to see, as was all the famous arts and craft shops; Upcycle Waiheke being a favourite. My visitor friend bought a very cool Tiki doll that sits on the wall, of course made from all recycled materials. The beaches are lovely quiet hideaways, a retreat in itself. Waiheke Island is a place to chill out, relax and enjoy.