Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is one of the most popular day trips from Auckland, just a 40-minute ferry ride across the Waitematā Harbour. Famous for its award-winning wineries, white-sand beaches, and relaxed island atmosphere, Waiheke offers the perfect mix of indulgence and adventure. Spend the day tasting local wines, exploring coastal trails, or enjoying a long lunch with ocean views. Whether you're visiting for a gourmet escape or a nature-filled retreat, Waiheke Island is an unforgettable part of any Auckland itinerary.
Tours & Tickets Visiting Waiheke Island
15 tours found
Waiheke Reserve Ferry Service to Waiheke Island
Wine on Waiheke scenic PREMIUM wine tasting. 11 clients only !
Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour
Waiheke Island Wine Tour with Scenic Vineyards & Tastings
The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour
Waiheke Island Scenic Wine Tour with Gourmet Beachfront Lunch
Waiheke island wine tours with Waitiki Tours
Waiheke Island Bush & Beach Walk
Waiheke Island Vineyards and Bush Walk
Waiheke Island Double Headland Coastal Walk
4.5-Hour Scenic Wine Tour with Private Guide & Up to 12 Tastings
Waiheke Island: Taste&Graze Whisky Cellar Tour, Food, Olive Oil
- Ferry: The Auckland to Waiheke ferry departs from the Downtown Ferry Terminal every 60 minutes taking ~40 min. Pre-book via our Auckland to Waiheke ferry link.
- Car ferry: Sealink sailings depart Wynyard Quarter (60 min). Book vehicles early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the fastest way to reach Waiheke from Auckland?
Book the ~40 min Auckland to Waiheke ferry that sails from downtown Pier 14 serveral times per day. Walk-on tickets are cheapest; vehicles travel on the Sealink car ferry are available from Hamer St.
Should I reserve ferry tickets in advance?
Yes—summer and holiday sailings often sell out. Fullers360 advises booking online and arriving 30 min early for boarding.
How long does a typical Waiheke day trip from Auckland take?
Allow 8–9 hours: 40 min crossing each way, a six-hour window for vineyards, beaches or zip-lining before the late-afternoon return sailing.
Which vineyards are must-stops on a Waiheke wine tour?
Mudbrick (harbour views & fine-dining), Cable Bay (modern lawn bar), Tantalus Estate (craft beer + wine) and Stonyridge (Bordeaux blends) headline most tours. Best to book tastings as walk-ins fill fast on weekends.
Can I explore the island without a car?
Absolutely: use the Waiheke Bus Explorer day pass, hire an e-bike at Matiatia Wharf, or join a guided wine-shuttle that loops vineyards and beaches.
Is Waiheke dog-friendly?
Dogs ride the ferry free on leash. Many beaches allow off-leash play before 10 am & after 5 pm in summer; check council signs for seasonal rules.
How many people visit Waiheke each year?
Auckland Council records 900 000+ annual visitors, nearly 90 times the island’s year round population of 10,000.
What else can I do besides wine tasting?
There are countless activties on Waiheke Island. Why not hike the 100-km Te Ara Hura trail network, zip-line above native bush with EcoZip, kayak to hidden coves, or lounge on white-sand beaches like Onetangi and Palm?