The PERFECT Waiheke Day Trip

Just a 45-minute ferry away from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the beautiful island of Waiheke. Often a few degrees warmer than the central city, Waiheke is full of exquisite beaches, breath-taking scenery, and famous for its wineries spanning the entire island. Follow along for the perfect 10-hour day trip itinerary to this Auckland treasure.

BUT FIRST! Before traveling to a new place, it is important to know the history.

Brief History of Waiheke

Waiheke was originally settled by some of the first Māori to come to Aotearoa New Zealand. During the Land Wars of the mid-1800s, much of Waiheke was taken from Māori by the British Crown. During this time, Waiheke became a place of trade then tourism in the 1870s. At that time it took over an hour to reach Waiheke from Auckland, making commuting to Auckland for work almost impossible. Then, the main inhabitants of Waiheke were artists living “off-grid” and Māori who still retained their land. By the 1980s the fast ferry was introduced making it possible for Waiheke residents to work in Auckland. It also made the transport of infrastructure resources easier.

The fast ferry birthed the Waiheke we know today. Waiheke is still a very artistic island and is now home to a large winery business and an increasing number of vacation homes. While the natural sights never fail to impress, Waiheke residents and activists have spent many years fighting to protect the island and itʻs natural species. Now Waiheke is full of native birds that were once almost gone. Currently many Waiheke residents are protesting bottom trawling and its harmful effects in the Hauraki Gulf and around the island.

Now you have an introduction into how Waiheke has become the destination hot-spot we know it as today. Remember there is always more to learn and keep your mind open as you travel the world.

Itinerary

Letʻs get into the itinerary! In just 10-hours you will see three of Waihekeʻs most popular beaches, have amazing food, pop in a market, and go on a spectacular hike.

What to bring:

• Water bottle, hat, sunglasses, good walking shoes
• Some snacks or pack lunch if youʻre on a budget
• Cash or Wise mobile app for international payments at the market
• Going in the Winter?: A windbreaker and raincoat for possible cold weather
• Going in the Summer?: A swim suit!

7:45 A.M. - Arrive 15 minutes early at Queenʻs Wharf to catch the 8:00 A.M. Fullers360 ferry. Either purchase a ticket online (walk-up and scheduled options available) or simply bring your AtHOP card and tap on in person. It is recommended to come 15-20 minutes early for walk-on ferry tickets to make sure you get a seat.

8:00 A.M. - Depart!

8:45 A.M. - Arrive at Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke. Take the Auckland Transport (AT) Bus to the Ostend Market. (Apple maps is excellent at showing the best AT routes to take!)

9:00 A.M. - Walk around the Ostend Market (Saturdays only) and get to know so many amazing local businesses. Forgot any essentials for the day out? Donʻt worry, there is a Woolworths just a 3 minute walk from the Market.

10:30 A.M.- Pop in Lily and Lotus - Boutique Shop & Cafe for brunch before you hit the beach! They have yummy options for all dietary needs and cozy seating to enjoy your meal. Want to eat somewhere else? Donʻt worry, there are several other restaurants in the area from pizza to Chinese.

11:15 A.M. - Take the AT Bus to Onetangi Beach.

11:30 A.M. - Walk along the beach, take it all in, and snap a few photos.

12:00 A.M. - Begin the 1-1.5 hour Te Ara Hura hiking path from Onetangi to Palm Beach. Look at the Walk Waiheke website for the route. Most of the path is along neighborhood roads with amazing views of the beach as well as vineyards across the inside of an island. Truly a look at life on Waiheke.

Into wine? Take a detour to the Obsidian Vineyard about a third through the path.

1:30pm - Arrive at Palm Beach. Take a seat or a dip and rest after the hike. Getting hungry? Check out the Arcadia Cafe just a 3 minute walk from the beach.

2:20 P.M. - Take the AT Bus to Oneroa.

2:30 P.M. - Oneroa is the largest urban area in Waiheke full of shops, food, and wine! Many shops close at 3-4pm on Saturdays so either plan ahead or skip the hiking to get here earlier. Once you are hungry, Too Fat Buns is a must with the largest softest burgers I've ever had (and with vegetarian options!). And make sure to stop in Waiheke Wine Center for a bottle to take home or a gift for a friend.

4:30 P.M. - Take the AT Bus to Matiatia Wharf for the 5pm ferry home.

5:45 P.M. - You made it back to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland!