
Holidays in Waiheke Island allow you to escape to spectacular Kiwi countryside. This gorgeous island is located in the Hauraki Gulf, just across the bay from New Zealand’s capital, Auckland. It’s a luxurious getaway destination with fabulous beaches, award-winning restaurants and superb vineyards – making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Waiheke is famous for its wine. At the vineyards you can sample a few glasses, enjoy a good meal and come away with a bottle or two. The Man O’War Vineyard is particularly special - pouring quality wines in a rustic beachside setting overlooking picturesque Pakatoa Island. A wine tour is the best way to get a taste for the island’s terroir. Waiheke also produces high-quality olive oil. A trip to the olive groves is a must to soak up some Mediterranean flavour in New Zealand.
Waiheke Island holidays: Mediterranean spirit in New Zealand
Deep in Waiheke Island’s interior, you can explore the towering trees, leafy forest paths and gentle waterfalls of the Whakanewha Regional Park. There’s an incredible variety of birds, including little blue penguins, Arctic skuas and shining cuckoos. The Onetangi Reserve also offers the chance to witness some of the island’s nesting inhabitants up close.
For those with a thirst for adventure, Waiheke Island has an exhaustive range of options. Rent bikes, scuba dive, snorkel or spend a day kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. If the natural surroundings have piqued your interest, you can take a guided walk and learn more about the island’s ecology. Browse our Waiheke Island tours for bespoke suggestions.
For a relaxed break on Waiheke Island, Oneroa Beach is an enchanting place to while away a warm summer’s afternoon, as you listen to the sounds of the surf and the breeze in the trees. Pick up some local produce at one of the delis in town and make use of the barbecue stands that fringe the sand. Waiheke Island holidays are perfect for families and couples alike.
Great sample itineraries
Get inspired by our selection of popular itineraries for Waiheke Island holidays to help get the most out of your stay.


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Explore Waiheke Island
Best time to visit Waiheke Island
The weather in Waiheke Island is at its best in summer and autumn (which runs from November to April) when the days are long and temperatures average around 20°C. The temperature can drop to 0°C throughout the winter months, and the island sees plenty of rainfall from May to October.
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“Waiheke Island is known for its fantastic eateries. For the biggest selection, head to Oneroa. For an interesting twist to your holiday, visit the many olive groves in the area. Enjoy exquisite olive oil tastings at the Rangihoua Estate, Azzuro Groves or Matiatia Grove.”

“Waiheke Island’s Alison Park is full of open-air sculptures and art galleries, with both contemporary and traditional artwork on display. You can also stop off at the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, Toi Gallery and Red Shed Art Gallery.”
Events & Festivals
Festivals and events are wonderful to include during your Waiheke Island holiday, offering a glimpse into the country’s authentic culture and traditions.
Otahuhu Food Festival
Held in late September just across the bay in Auckland, Otahuhu Food Festival is a vast food festival that celebrates the best of the city’s cooking – from hot dogs to Maori hangis.
Beer & Bacon Festival
The August Beer & Bacon festival in Auckland celebrates this iconic food pairing. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of true rural New Zealand culture on their Waiheke Island holidays.
Waiheke Ostend Market
Take a stroll down to Waiheke’s Ostend Market on a Saturday. Here you can spend a lively day haggling for local handicrafts and enjoying delicious home-cooked food.
Local Cuisine
Get a flavour of the local culture through your palate during your Waiheke Island holiday. Here are a few of our favourite experiences.
Olive Oil Tastings
Who knew some of the world’s finest olive oil was to be found in New Zealand? Visit local olive groves for tastings and wine pairings, as well as some spectacular views.
Vineyards
Waiheke’s vineyards produce some seriously good wine. Enjoy a tasting and some snacks overlooking the sun-kissed landscape. It’s the perfect way to unwind on your Waiheke Island holidays.
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There’s no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists.
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