Waiheke Island, nestled in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, boasting pristine beaches, lush vineyards, and captivating coastal landscapes. Visitors can indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities, from kayaking along the crystal-clear waters to hiking through picturesque trails that offer panoramic views of the island. Beyond its natural charm, Waiheke also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing local talent and creativity.
Eating Out
Indulging in the culinary delights of Waiheke Island's restaurants and cafes offers a delectable fusion of fresh local ingredients and breathtaking coastal views, creating an unforgettable dining experience. From charming seaside bistros to upscale vineyard eateries, each venue on Waiheke serves up a tantalizing array of dishes infused with the island's unique charm and flavors.
Connells Bay Sculpture Park
Viewing these awe-inspiring art works on a guided walk in this environment is an experience to be treasured. Bookings are essential and children must be supervised. You are welcome to bring your lunch and use the tables outside the gallery.
Wineries
Wineries on Waiheke and the local vineyards are the main drawcard for Waiheke. Come to Waiheke and explore some of these high-quality vineyards during your visit to Waiheke Island, choose from a selection of wineries or experience a whole range of flavours on a Waiheke Island winery tasting tour.
EcoZip Adventures
State-of-the-art flying fox ziplines and an eco-immersive forest walk for nature lovers of all ages. Three 200m dual flying fox ziplines will fly you smoothly side-by-side with a partner, friend or relative down into a stunning tract of original and regenerating native bush.
Whittakers Musical Museum
Over 100 antique instruments carefully restored including concertinas, bandoneons, harpsichords, dulcitones, pianolas, theatre organs and Paderewski's 1897 9ft Bechstein concert grand piano. Fun and educational – a unique opportunity to see and play instruments dating back to 1800s.
The Botanical Distillery
The Botanical Distillery offers exciting and unique experiences which will immerse you in the aromatic world of botanical plants, artisan spirits and distillation through team-building exercises, corporate events and private engagements.
Waiheke Beaches
Waiheke is known for its stunning coastline and of course, the beautiful Waiheke beaches are a huge drawcard. There are numerous sandy beaches and bays to visit, though the best swimming can be found on the Northern side of the island as the beaches on the southern side (whilst still worth a visit) are generally tidal.
Walks on Waiheke
There are so many stunning walking tracks on Waiheke and walking is the best way to discover the beauty of the island. It's that good there is an annual walking festival. So come over to Waiheke and get walking!
Whakanewha Regional Park
On the south side of the Waiheke Island, Whakanewha Regional Park is known for its mature coastal forest with taraire, kohekohe and old kanuka trees, cascading streams, and sweeping crescent-shaped beach cut in two by a forested headland.
Stony Batter Tunnels
Stony Batter tunnels are something of a tradition and legend amongst the Waiheke community. Fort Stony Batter is a WWII Coastal Defence Fortress located at the Eastern end of Waiheke Island.
Shopping
The island offers a wide range of retailers ranging from gift & craft shops, clothing, stationary, local produce, wine, garden supplies, auto parts, appliances, electrical goods, hardware, homewares, and many, many more.
The Museum of Waiheke
Experience a slice of Old Waiheke at the Waiheke Museum and Historic Village. A reconstructed woolshed houses the museum's main exhibits, three small bach-style houses contain period rooms and photo exhibits. There is a working, manually-operated telephone exchange and even the original Waiheke jail!