Waiheke Island is in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, about 17.7km from Auckland. Transport to the island is by boat or helicopter, and there are both passenger and car ferry services available. The passenger ferry ride from downtown Auckland takes 35-45 minutes via Fullers Ferry services. These arrive at Matiatia wharf on Waiheke where you can catch a bus or hire cars, scooters and bikes to get around the island. The Sealink car ferry leaves from Half Moon Bay near Bucklands Beach in Auckland and arrives at Kennedy Point. Click here for a map, or see below.
Waiheke is most well known for it's beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and award winnning wineries. It has loads of scenic beaches around the island, such as Oneroa and Little Oneroa, Palm Beach, Blackpool, Surfdale and Onetangi Beach, and Cactus Bay. The population of the island is almost 9,000 but this number swells considerably during the summer as New Zealand and international visitors holiday on the island. During the year many events are held to attract visitors, such as the Wine Festival, Jazz Festival and Art and Walking Festivals.
Waiheke provides a near-perfect climate for grape growing, and is home to over 30 vineyards, amongst some of the most well known are Cable Bay, Mudbrick, Obsidian, Passage Rock and Te Motu. To find out about more wineries visit Waiheke Island of Wine.
As well as producing beautiful wine, Waiheke is home to many fantastic restaurants, bars and cafes. To read reviews you can go to Trip Advisor to see how they rate.
Our personal favourites are:
Stefanos (for casual pizza)
The Oyster Inn (brand new, and looking loads of fun)
.....more to come soon on Waiheke's beautiful beaches and wedding locations - but for now 'good night!'
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