Waiheke: A hiker's dream.
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?
Find serenity in Whakanwha’s wonderfully lush forest
Starting in potentially one of the most immersive spots of course! We’re talking about the Whakanewha Regional Park, on the southern side of Waiheke. This regional park is home to an ancient bush, with multiple tracks all ready to be explored throughout the forest. It’s a nature lover's absolute dream and, in addition, you will meet many unique birds in your journey through the trees. You may even spot a tui, kereru, or piwakawaka- just keep those eyes peeled or, rather keep your ears on alert.
A particular walk in Whakanewha Regional Park is the Rocky Bay and Whakanewha loop- which will have you trekking 7.9km around some of Waiheke’s best spots. It’s a nice and easy track in which you will spot lush nikau and puriri trees to serve as a welcoming backdrop to your day. This track takes roughly just over two hours to complete. Make sure you remember to take some snaps of the radiant Cascades waterfall, which you will meet along the loop. It certainly gives Waiheke’s age-old name, ‘cascading waters’ a run for its money. Watch in awe at the majestic mightiness of the taraire trees that reside in this forest.
If you are after a shorter track in the reserve, look no further than the Pā Loop Track. This popular track will have you set out near the top of the hill on Gordan’s Road and will actually have you walk within the camping ground within the reserve. The Rua Loop Track is great also but will take you past a popular swimming spot, where you can have a lovely wee picnic to rehydrate. If you want to experience all of the walks within the Whakanewha Regional Park then it’s definitely worth setting yourself up at the campsite. There are many explorations to be had and within that countless bird-life and native trees to behold.
Trace that coastline in ‘Matiatia to Owhanaka Loop’s’ trek
If you fancy seeing some of Waiheke’s superb coastlines, then the Matiatia to Owhanaka Loop might be the perfect hike for you. This walk will take around two-to-three hours to complete, but after finishing it, you would have seen a huge amount of Waiheke. This walk is also great because you can start right at the old Matiatia Wharf, making it quite accessible for a first walk upon leaving or entering Waiheke.
Travel along this stunning stretch of land and you will be gifted with magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf as well as Waiheke itself. You might also want to take a look at the World War 2 pillboxes, which are located on Delamore Drive. Since it’s a decent walk, rest a while at Owhanake Bay- there are plenty of picnic tables to eat your lunch on. This track will also take you through Oneroa, so you can grab some food or find some bargains here on your way.
Have coastal views, but with a quicker runtime- It’s the ‘Waiheke Island Short Loop’
If you want to cover quite a bit of ground, but still have a small walk, then the Waiheke Island Short Loop could be your next trip. This roughly one-and-a-half walk is for ‘moderate’ hikers and has an elevation of 147 meters. You can even bring your dog on this one and boy they will love you for it with all the fresh smells and sights to explore. Around 5.5km in length, expect to see lavish views of the Hauraki Gulf on this one. It’s also worth noting to check the tides when you do decide to go on this walk. This is mainly because it can be tricky navigating around the Matatia Ferry, with your feet potentially getting wet. This is a great shorter walk, but it’s worth noting that there are hills in some sections.
Soak in the stunning vistas on the Onetangi Beach to Man O War Bay
This walk will have you starting at the very popular Waiheke spot of Onetangi and it will take you on a 14.3-kilometer journey through some of the island’s most picturesque sights. It actually is a component of the Te Ara Hura trail–yes that’s the big 100km hefty adventure that traverses the whole island. For those ready for the challenge, this could also be your next big hike. But back to this walk–yes the views are one to behold! Expect peaceful farm views and ripe vineyards to make your eyes dance. If you want to indulge in some lovely wine, then why not stop at the Man O’ War Winery for a sip of Pinot Gris or two? Your feet will cover grounds from the beach, suburbs, and gravel roads all the way to vineyards. There’s a nice sense of variation in this hike. You can find your way back to your starting point by catching the shuttle bus that runs from Man’ O War winery back to Onetangi. It clocks in at around three and a half hours long, so make sure you have a good pack with you. Get ready, that Waiheke fresh air is just waiting for you.
Get acquainted with ‘Oneroa’s Beach Coastal Track’
If you would like to find yourself amongst the waves and sand, then Oneroa Beach Coastal Track is definitely a good pick. The track itself is around 4km in length and will take the average person around one hour to finish. It’s also a great little walk to bring your dog as well.
Find a ‘moderate’ walk in Kuakarau and Hitapa Bay
If you are seeking to set on a slightly challenging walk then do try this trek. Kuakarau and Hitapa Bay will take you around the 1 hour and a half mark. Expect to trace across rocky coastlines and be ready for hills and valleys. Similar to other treks on this hike-heavy island there will be other tracks that can connect to this particular one if you so desire to have an extra-long hike. You could always take the Margaret Reeve Lane route and connect to Kauakarau Forest, which will add another hour to your journey.
A quick walk, close to Surfdale shops
The Esplanade Path is a great and quick walk that stretches from Blackpool beach to Surfdale Beach, tracing along the esplanade. It’s nice and easy, mostly flat, and you can also bike the trail if you choose to. You won’t see a lot of cars on the gravel road, making the road safe and accessible. You can even go fishing at the beaches. But if this is not your thing, then bird watching could be more your cup of tea. So listen out for some bird songs as you stroll across the track. When you get to Surfdale Beach you will be greeted with a lot of action on the water, including kite surfing on a good day. Check out the shops and cafes for a break from your walk.
Whether you want to get acquainted with the many coastlines of this wonderful island, or get shaded by the forest (or both) - there’s definitely a walk for you to find your stride with. Scout waterfalls, Taraire trees, golden sandy beaches, and pristine vineyards while you revel in the mysterious ancient forests. There are many landscapes to tick off your hiking list and certainly many scenic images to be snapped. So put those hiking boots on and ready yourself with your greatest scroggin mix- let’s go.