Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is the cutest island with a hop on / hop off tour bus that will take you to most of the best spots - we are convinced this is the best way to day trip this island. This Island is full of vineyards and was the perfect day to taste some local wines - New Zealand actually has some amazing wine all across their country. The best part of this island (besides all of the wine...) is the stunning views around every corner. Beaches, nature, trails, and restaurants with 360 degree views around the island.
The Ferry & Hop-On Hop Off Bus
Booking Link: Using the link below you can book the ferry to and from Waiheke Island and the Hop On Hop Off bus (at the same link!).
We were travelling on New Years day so this may have affected how many people were out and about, but showing up about 15-45 minutes before the ferry is recommend. We also took the first ferry of the day which usually is the least busy. The later in the morning you go the earlier you will want to be to the ferry pick up (in the Downtown Ferry Terminal) to make sure you get a spot as it's first come first served - in summer they recommend 60 minutes! Check the time table of departures and returns on their website for their timings.
The Hop On Hop Off Bus will give you a map of all their stops when they pick you up - they will be located on the main road right behind the ferry terminal. Its a large red double decker bus that's hard to miss! They will give you insight into their stop timings and information about what's open and even suggestions.
Stops At Waiheke Island
We visited the island on New Years Day, so not everything was open. However, we were actually able to fill up our day itinerary for a full day despite some spots being closed, and we had the perfect day. Here were our favourite spots along the tour!
Beaches
Oneroa Beach
@twentyfivedaysayear
One of the first stops will bring you to this beautiful beach. Take a small walk down a path to get here, and you will have incredible views over the water.
Details
Onetangi Beach
@twentyfivedaysayear
This long stretch of sand is a bit further away on the island and has so many cute restaurants, drinks and ice cream spots around it! I wish we would have brought our beach stuff to enjoy this place a bit more.
Details
Vineyards
Postage Stamp Wines
@twentyfivedaysayear
Behind what looks like someones home is the cutest backyard vineyard that has a few tables and chairs for a quiet experience of wine tasting! The wine tasted great and the quiet atmosphere led to a more intimate experience here.
Details
Batch Winery
@twentyfivedaysayear
Another super cute spot! This is a great place to also stop for a meal if you get hungry as they have the cutest restaurant set up with insane views over the island. If you're not feeling a bite, head to the wine tasting room for a great wine tasting experience where a host will take you through their wines. Afterwards, head to the back of the land to see more of those views and the vineyards!
Details
Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
@twentyfivedaysayear
This is THE place for a glass of wine and insane views.
They have a restaurant that looks equally as nice, but we shared some wine and a cheese platter at their bistro instead that really hit the spot. The views overlook the vineyard, Waiheke, and the water. This really was an incredible place!
Details
The Heke Kitchen, Brewery & Distillery
@twentyfivedaysayear
This spot offers craft beers and whisky! It also has a kitchen so is a great all in one spot to stop and enjoy some nibbles & some tastings. You don't need to book ahead for tastings and you can taste the local beers and whisky if you need a break from wine.
Details
Food
If you're visiting as a day trip, we recommend going on the first ferry out which means you're likely having breakfast and lunch on the island, but heading back to Auckland for dinner. Check out the spots below for breakfast / lunch / and some nibbles along your journey!
Breakfast:
Akito Eatery
@twentyfivedaysayear
As you're waking up early, wait to have breakfast until you get to Waiheke Island and visit this spot. They have a selection of healthy breakfasts in a cute cafe. This is also a 5 minute walk down to the beach which is a great spot to enjoy after!
Details
Lunch & Nibbles:
Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant
@twentyfivedaysayear
This is THE place for a glass of wine and insane views.
They have a restaurant that looks equally as nice, but we shared some wine and a cheese platter at their bistro instead that really hit the spot. The views overlook the vineyard, Waiheke, and the water. This really was an incredible place!
Details
The Local - Waiheke's Fish n Chips
@twentyfivedaysayear
The name doesn't lie - this is a local spot. After lots of wine tastings and some nibbles, head to this spot to share some local fish and chips and local brews with a great view!
Details
Charlie Farley's
@twentyfivedaysayear
This is a popular spot right across from the stunning beach in Onetangi Bay. We didn't stop here for lunch but did stop here at their ice cream bar and it was well worth the stop!
Details
Wander Waiheke!
We hope you enjoy wandering around Waiheke - and sipping wine ofcourse. Waiheke Island is included in our North Island and North & South Island New Zealand Itineraries - check those our if you're planning on road tripping New Zealand (which is the best way to see New Zealand in our opinion). Otherwise, check out our blog for more information on New Zealand and the other countries we have been exploring & blogging about to give our experiences and insight over to fellow adventurers!
* * *
