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Why New Zealand’s Waiheke Island is the Perfect Escape
Written by Nate Robinson
Rolling olive groves, world-class vineyards and spectacular emerald seas: Waiheke is New Zealand’s answer to the Mediterranean islands.
Whether you’re looking for laidback, art-fuelled culture, mind-blowingly good oysters, luxurious villa stays or a cold glass of chardonnay on a warm summer’s day, Waiheke Island’s got it all. Here are just a few of the reasons why Waiheke Island’s magic keeps travellers returning again and again.
Waiheke Island is just 40 minutes away by ferry
Ferries depart Auckland’s Half Moon Bay to Waiheke’s Kennedy Point most hours from 5am to 6pm daily. Glide gently past Howick’s residential coastline, Rangitoto Island’s volcanic slopes and Motuihe Island’s quiet shores before reaching the island itself. Convenience and proximity to the city make it the perfect day trip: it’s one of the few places possible to enjoy beaches, rainforests, vineyards and townships in a single day, and evenings spent beneath Waiheke Island’s brilliant tapestry of stars are richly rewarded.
Take or hire your own vehicle or rent a local bike and the island’s countless treasures become open to you.
It’s home to over 30 wineries
Waiheke Island’s unique microclimate makes it a winemaker’s paradise – sip your way across over 30 unique wineries, each of them offering a powerful glimpse into the island’s distinguished terroir. Head to the famed Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant for unforgettable romance among the vines and bespoke glasses matched with seasonal, island-inspired plates, surrounded by the endless shimmering blues of the Hauraki Gulf and one of the most glorious sunsets in the world. Whether it’s Tantalus Estate’s idyllic gardens and secret taphouse, Man O’War Vineyards’ tremendous views of the bluffs below or Batch Winery’s perfectly charred barbecue dishes, they’re all backed by some of New Zealand’s very best drops.
The seafood is sensational
With the island surrounded on all sides by the bountiful waters of the mighty Hauraki Gulf, it’s no surprise the seafood here is a revelation. Try the island’s most iconic delicacy, oysters, caught fresh daily, or head to Ki Maha on the breathtaking Onetangi Beach for catches that are sumptuous and sustainable. Snapper ceviche, seafood chowder on the beach and octopus grilled to perfection are just a few of the island’s must-eats. Even the wildlife agrees – Waiheke’s korora, or ‘little penguins,’ spend most of their lives hungrily diving into shallow waters, in search of their next fresh meal.
Out-of-this-world scenery and beaches
Vast clifftop panoramas, rambling hinterland and platinum-white sands sloping delicately into emerald seas – Waiheke Island’s a paradise made to be photographed. Oneroa Beach (in Maori, ‘Long Beach’) overlooks a protected cove on the north of the island and offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking and watersports, while Little Palm Beach is known for its breathtaking bay views and naturist-friendly culture.
Trek through the lush bushland of Whakanewha Regional Park and you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the Cascades stream and waterfall. One of Waiheke Island’s most cherished views, the glade is the perfect respite on hot summer days. Head a little higher on the island and on a clear day you’ll be able to see Auckland’s mighty skyline, mirage-like and shimmering on the horizon.
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