Events on Waiheke
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.
Explore Waiheke either on foot or by sea.
In January, The Wharf to Wharf run covers tracks from Orapiu t
o Matiatia. It happens in the peak of summer’s heat and charms hundreds of holiday goers and locals alike. It’s no small feat to complete this 25-kilometer trek and it’s widely considered as being one of the country's most difficult runs, with duration of around an hour and a half. The difficulty of this run is mostly because of the terrain you find yourself running against, which has a tad amount of hills. But rest assured, you can also watch and take in the intensity from the sidelines cheering participants on.
A fun family day out at the Onetangi Beach Races
A fantastic event for the whole family is the Onetangi Beach Races. In February each year, this age-old tradition takes place with races from a variety of vehicles, all ready to hoon across the beach. These races certainly make use of
Onetangi’s beautiful sandy beach that stretches 2 kilometers in length. This event is for the adventurous amongst us who want to participate in fun Waiheke activities like horse racing, tractor racing, and kids' karts. On the other hand, you might just want to get snug and watch the event gloriously unfold- that will still be just as exciting. The Onetangi Beach Races make for some truly exhilarating memories for the whole family along this marvelous beach. It’s so great that the
Onetangi Beach Races have been going on for so long one might say it’s woven into the fabric of the island’s history.
Onetangi Beach Races
Ponder shapes and figures with the Sculpture on the Gulf Waiheke Island festival.
Every second year around March, you will be greeted with an array of artistic sculptures that pop up over the island. Stretched across 2 km of headland, you will see varying and unique displays of art, made possible by a collection of talented artists. The artists are motivated by the confines and inspiration of the island itself. This makes for a very special experience for the spectator to notice the artist’s personal interpretation of the environment. It's very cool to see how the artists can adapt their vision to the parameters of the island’s features. But of course, with art it’s best if you experience the finished pieces yourself.
Admire all the yachts from afar, or perhaps- find yourself in one.
In March every year, there is a truly exciting race around the island that takes place on Waiheke. There are trophies up for grabs, which is extremely super. In order to compete in the yacht race you will need to be a member of Yachting New Zealand, so if you haven't already made sure you get your membership sorted. According to the conditions, the direction you start with is chosen on the day of sailing (this is to do with the tides mainly and wind impact). If sailing is not for you, simply enjoy the yachts from afar as you unpack your picnic blanket and gaze at the sea from Onetatangi’s golden sands.
Do not miss the Wine and Food Festival!
Speaking of food, this brings us to the Wine and Food Festival happening in April.
The festival will have you exploring 10+ vineyards and some of the best food eateries that Waiheke has to offer. You will also have an artistic experience in the form of live art and music to keep you entertained while you savor that cheese board.
You can also nab some special offers at selected restaurants just by showing your buy-in ticket, it’s nice and simple! To keep you hopping around the island at ease, you will have shuttles easily accessible while you navigate the island and indulge in the wonderful food and wine.
So, you are a Jazz fan?
If you're into music you will find the Waiheke Jazz Festival over Easter weekend in April.
Take in the sweet sounds of jazz while you hop around the island’s venues, it’s a music lover's dream. The lineup changes each year but you are guaranteed to be set for some lovely acoustics as you sip on Waiheke’s finest wine and nibbles.
Explore the island with the Waiheke Walking Festival.
In November, you can experience 50 guided walks over 11 days. If you browse through the Waiheke Walking Festival you will be amazed at how they have thought of a walk for every interest. From the foodie walk to the conservation and night sky walk- you’ll be spoiled for choice in new and fun ways to view and explore the island. The walks are paired with unique Waiheke things to do, so you can look at the stars or grab a bite to eat while you get to know the island.
All year round catch a film at the Waiheke Island Community Cinema.
In case you want your fix of cinema and have tired from the more intense Waiheke activities and events on the island, why not head to the movies for a quiet escape? The Waiheke Island Community Cinema has been run by some devout cinema lovers for over 14 years. It is run by a trust and the nuts and bolts of the cinema are brought together by mainly volunteers.
Another delightful fact is that the cinema always prioritizes local movies over the big blockbusters, so you will not only support local talent, but you will also be in for hidden gems for sure.
Find some genuine souvenir treasures at Ostend Markets
If you happen to be in Ostend, make sure to tune in on any Saturday at around 8am as you will be in for a real treat. Walk along Belgium Street and you’ll be greeted with Waiheke’s best coffee, scones, fresh bread, and plenty of produce to use for your picnic lunches. There are so many wonderful, unique stalls to explore and you might even unearth some lovely keep-safe souvenirs so you can remember your time on the island. Find everything from used books and clothes right through to little crystals and nick nacks to take for the road.