48 Hours on Waiheke Island

Discover the essence of Waiheke Island with two days of exploration and relaxation, discovering everything from coastal bliss to village charm. From island arrival to moonlit ambience, experience the adventure of a lifetime on Waiheke.

Day 1: Island Arrival & Adventure Kickoff

To make the most out of your two days on Waiheke Island, wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed to catch one of the earliest ferry services from Half Moon Bay or Auckland CBD. Load up your rental car onto the vehicle ferry, take a seat and enjoy the 35-minute cruise across the Hauraki Gulf. Upon arrival, grab a hearty breakfast from a local cafe to fuel your day and ease into the island spirit. Oneroa Beach Club offers NZ-style cuisine, with stunning views across the bay. While you’re here, check out Oneroa Village,  the vibrant heart of Waiheke Island with boutique shops, art galleries and cafes lining the streets. Dive straight into adventure with a thrilling zip-lining experience through lush forests and picturesque scenery at EcoZip Adventures in Onetangi, about a ten-minute drive from Oneroa. The EcoZip experience includes a guided tour of Waiheke’s highlights on board a shuttle bus, a series of fun and exciting zip lines, along with a forest walk to finish off. Refuel with a delicious lunch at one of the island's beachfront cafes before preparing for the afternoon ahead.

Day 1: Coastal Trail Adventure & Sunset Serenity

Continue with your outdoor exploration with a drive to one of Waiheke’s coastal trails. From 20 km loops to 50-minute paths, you’ll find a tramping trail to suit you. Lace up your boots, slap on some sunscreen and prepare to be taken away by the island’s stunning scenery and coastal views on your hike. One of the most highly regarded trails on the island is the Northern Walk. Encompassing Matiatia, Owhanake and Oneroa, this route is perfect for those wanting to leave the rental car behind and venture off the beaten path to discover the best of Waiheke at their own pace. Bring your camera along to capture memories or perhaps a journal to note down thoughts and feelings as you soak in the picturesque landscapes. Go on a shopping trip to stock up for a picnic dinner by the beach, or unwind with a meal at The Middle Restaurant and Bar. Conclude your day with a magical experience, admiring the sun setting along the horizon with an evening kayaking tour, and reflect on your action-packed first day on Waiheke. 

Day 2: Brunch Bliss & Adventure Planning

Begin your final day on Waiheke Island with a leisurely brunch at one of the island’s cafes. Akitō , meaning ‘to do something slowly’ in Māori, is a stylish and modern cafe with beautiful ocean views. Their carefully crafted menu includes everything from shakshuka eggs to sourdough toasties and chickpea pancakes. On Waiheke, with your rental vehicle in tow, the world is your oyster. Start at the Waiheke Adventure Centre on the Matiatia Beachfront to choose your adventure for the afternoon. Whether you prefer land-based activities or water-based experiences, there are a range of options available for all skill levels. If you’d like to get out on the water, sea kayaking around the island is a must. There’s the Half Day Guided Coastal Explorer tour where you’ll visit hidden coves and venture out onto the Pacific Ocean, the 2 Hour Guided Afternoon Classic, or the Sit on Top Kayak Hire for an hour of freedom around the Matiatia harbour. On land, there are guided and self-guided electric mountain bike trips that showcase the Island’s epic landscapes, and team challenges like bumper balls and mini golf if you’re travelling with a group.

Day 2: Vineyard Road Trip

Now that you’ve discovered Waiheke’s coastal beauties, historic culture and native bushland, it’s time to spend the rest of your island adventure on a wine-tasting journey. Before you set off, remember to appoint a designated driver to keep all party members safe and accompanied throughout your road trip. Starting in Oneroa, drive over to Mudbrick for a wine tasting in a romantic setting. Overlooking rolling hills and Huruhi Bay, you’ll have views like no other while sipping on award-winning wines. Taste the flavours of Waiheke, unwind and enjoy the feeling of island bliss, plus capture some happy snaps to remember forever. Moving on to Stonyridge Vineyard in Onetangi, where you can enjoy à la carte dining at the restaurant, nibbles and platters on the outdoor deck and lawns, or a selection of three wine tastings. Not into wine? No worries. There are plenty of non-alcoholic options on the menu at both Mudbrick and Stonyridge, and Waiheke Distilling Co. offers tours and tastings if you prefer spirits. Conclude your Waiheke getaway with dinner at a seafood restaurant, reflecting on your time spent here as the sun dips into the ocean for another night. 

With memories captured and footprints in the sand, bid farewell to this island paradise as you return to Auckland.