Discover what makes Waiheke the renowned sublime paradise it is.
Away from the worries and hustle of Auckland city is the perfect escape, an Island that truly has it all. Let’s take you through what makes Waiheke like no other, from its rich history, natural beauty, famous attractions, breathtaking beaches and more.
Waiheke has many pockets of unique attractions scattered throughout the island. You will find unique artwork at both The Red Shed and Waiheke Community Art Gallery among others. These galleries rotate their artists so there is always a fresh, new, and exciting artistic perspective to gain from each piece. The island also has a colourful array of parks, each with distinctive features like a sculpture walk in Alison Park and wonderful bird life in Whakanewha National Park. If you are a history buff, then you can learn the secrets of the island at Waiheke’s museum. Make sure to visit the tunnels found on Stony Batter, where you can see the gun emplacements left from the 1940s. Let’s take a deep dive into each of these Waiheke attractions.
So you’re planning your big day and still haven’t found the perfect wedding venue that has not only a sublime location, but also wonderful food and wine options. Then look no further than Waiheke Island. Hidden away in the Hauraki Gulf lies an island of opportunity; Waiheke is waiting to be discovered to make up your most joyous and timeless memories on. Sit back and peruse while we run you through some of the great locations found on the island. It’s a journey of charming grapes, breathtaking views to get lost in and scrumptious food. Let’s explore the island’s best wedding venues!
Waiheke is so close to Auckland, you can easily find a few ways of getting to the island quite fast. It’s super accessible by both air and sea. Whether by ferry with or without a car, helicopter, plane, or your own private boat- rest assured it’s easy to get to Waiheke.
Hidden inside the pocket of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke beaches are spread across the island on all sides, providing the best escape from the city hustle. Even revealed within its own name, Waiheke literally translates from Maori to cascading or ebbing water, and here on this island you will find no shortage of stunning beaches to explore and get lost in. Swimming is of course super popular on the remarkably golden beaches of Waiheke. As well, there are many unique spots for everything from snorkeling and kite surfing right through to fishing, coastal walking tracks, and kayaking. There are many things to do on Waiheke, no matter what you are looking for and with the over 10 main beaches on Waiheke, you are definitely spoiled for choice.
Waiheke has a huge list of events to keep you thoroughly entertained throughout the year. Whether you want to grab a front row seat at the Onetangi Beach Races to take in that February summer breeze, get toasty with a glass of wine, or be serenaded at the Waiheke Jazz festival, there’s an event for you! You could even get a jog in at the Wharf to Wharf fun run earlier in January- the options are endless and as quirky as the island itself. Let’s take a look at what is on offer so that you can get a feel for what Waiheke’s events are all about.
We unpack some of the reasons why Waiheke makes the best wine. You’ll come to discover Waiheke’s stunning grapes.
The walks on Waiheke are as varied as the island itself. You can see stunning sights like the Cascades Falls, trek along the white sandy beaches, hike amongst the ripe vineyards, and find peace in ancient forests. Waiheke Hikes will have you spoiled for choice! But where to start?
Today Waiheke is a mini island metropolis. Waiheke has shaped up to be one of the true hidden gems of the Hauraki Gulf. An island decked out to the brim with exceptional vineyards, remarkable dining experiences, fun activities, and above all a top-notch community spirit.
So you’ve spent hours agonizing over finding that perfect dress to say ‘I do’ in. The Wedding planning book is slowly getting filled up with brimming things to do and you’ve selected some bridesmaids' dresses already, but now you’re eying up the many other decisions that need to be made. But now it’s time to explore the idea of where you want everything to happen. Ah yes- the big location question! Where on earth can you find a location that is as magical as you and your electric love story are? You will discover those starry vibes and other-worldly shimmer in Waiheke. It’s the island fully fledged with awe-inspiring backdrops to gleam in with remarkable wines and cuisines to keep you floating on air. Amidst all the hazy glitter of the day, let’s face it- beforehand all those decisions can be so very daunting to think about. Let’s look into some venues, florists, and photographer options, so you can get closer to soaking in the budding excitement of the day.
Waiheke presents itself as a uniquely situated island in the pocket of the Hauraki Gulf. It has been said that a rainy Auckland is a sunny Waiheke. And this is because Waiheke actually has its own microclimate. This means that its unique area of 92km² differs from that of the mainland, and instead, this island has its own unique climate and weather patterns completely separate from Auckland and surrounding areas.
Waiheke has a lot to offer and will give you something to come away with. Expect to see an eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and cafes where everyone from visitors to the locals are catered to. You can buy everything from wine, clothing, food, gifts, and everything in between.
Whether you're dressing your summer caesar salad, cooking your favorite dish on the stove, or noticing fruity, herb-infused olive flavors in your chocolate- olive oil is no doubt a necessity in fine dining. Experience truly high-quality extra virgin olive oil with Waiheke-grown olives. It’s definitely a must when it comes to perfecting your Waiheke experience.
You can be you'll find a bit of everything in Waiheke
You’ve booked your accommodation for Waiheke and started to think about your island experience and what could be in store for you. You’ve lined up all the sights, sounds, and tastes that the island has to offer but of course, your heart is not yet content without the prospect of bringing your canine friend. Well, fear not your dearest companion is most welcome in this dog-friendly home away from home.
