Just a short ferry ride from Auckland lies the captivating Waiheke Island. Known for its picturesque vineyards, golden beaches, and expensive yet bohemian charm, this enchanting island has been dubbed “the Hamptons of New Zealand.”
Whether you’re looking for a boozy day trip of wine tasting at one of the island’s 30 wineries or a quiet weekend of lounging on idyllic beaches, Waiheke is the perfect place to escape the commotion of downtown Auckland.
Getting to Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is easily reached from Auckland by passenger or car ferry, and the journey only takes about 40 minutes.
The Fullers360 passenger ferry departs from downtown Auckland at Pier 11 and arrives in Waiheke at Matiatia. Tickets range from 26 NZD for children and 55 NZD for adults, with lower fares in the off-season.
The SeaLink car ferry departs from Half Moon Bay in east Auckland with service to Kennedy Point. Tickets are 150 NZD for the car and driver, plus an additional fee for extra passengers, ranging from 14-24 NZD. We took the car ferry and thoroughly enjoyed it, the sea was calm with spectacular views of the Auckland skyline and surrounding islands.
Oneroa
Oneroa is the largest village on Waiheke, home to beautiful beaches, local art galleries, and excellent restaurants. If you’re staying for a few days, I recommend basing yourself here on the western side of the islands, where most of the accommodation and infrastructure are.
Check out the sparkling turquoise waters of Oneroa Beach, an expansive stretch of golden sand. The sheltered waters are perfect for swimming and as glassy and clear as the Caribbean. Hike over the craggy headland to the intimate Little Oneroa Beach to soak in the peaceful atmosphere at this secluded bay.
Head into town to check out the shops on Ocean View Road, where local boutiques and art galleries are dispersed between souvenir shops selling NZ and Waiheke apparel.
Ostend
If you’re visiting the island on a Saturday, don’t miss the Waiheke Ostend Market. This charming local market is hosted from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm each Saturday and features a variety of vendors. Grab an empanada or crepe from the food trucks, or browse vintage clothes, jewelry, handmade soaps, and more from the vendors scattered across the lawn.
Head across the street for coffee and good vibes at Ritual, a cafe and gift shop with serious yogi energy and delicious cafe fare. Check out more local flavors next door at Waiheke Speciality Food, an adorable gourmet grocery store with a wide selection of high-end meats, cheeses, fish, and other items for the perfect beach picnic.
Onetangi Beach
This sprawling golden sand beach is the ideal spot to lay out in the afternoon sun and enjoy the tranquil azure waters of Onetangi Bay. Stretching nearly 2 kilometers wide, Onetangi Beach offers ample space for stretching your legs between sunbathing and swimming.
Just down the street is Three Seven Two, a chic seaside restaurant serving modern cuisine and the perfect spot to fuel up after a beach day.
Man O’ War
Waiheke Island is renowned for its wine scene, and no visit is complete without stopping by the area’s largest vineyard, Man O’ War. Located on the island’s eastern coast overlooking Man O’ War Bay, this beachfront restaurant and cellar door are paradise.
The atmosphere is glamorous yet laid back, where children run loose on the lawn while newcomers arrive in Van Cleef necklaces and Armani button-downs from their yachts anchored in the bay. Guests can choose between lounging on picnic blankets on the lawn or table seating in the stylish restaurant. Be sure to make a booking, especially during summer.
Graze on a perfectly curated charcuterie board over a tasting flight, composed of four of the vineyard’s Flagship wines, or tuck into a pizza, cooked to perfection in wood-fired ovens. The Makikihi fries are sinfully delicious, tossed in fragrant truffle oil and topped with shaved parmesan, I saw an order at every table.
Matiatia Walk
The Matiatia Coastal Walk is a stunning path along the island’s western edge. The hike spans the coastline between Matiatia and Onearoa, with sweeping ocean views. We parked off Delmore Drive and hiked the section along Owhanake Bay. The path is well maintained (a bit muddy after rain) with an undulating landscape that climbs and descends the coastline. The path takes you past beach coves, the Rail Dog statue, and swanky mansions with helicopter pads.
After the hike, reward yourself with lunch at Cable Bay, a vineyard with ocean views, elegant interior, and an exceptional menu.