How to get around Waiheke Island

There’s no need to travel far to feel a world away, immersed in tranquillity. From downtown Auckland, you can simply go on a ferry and, in less than one hour, find yourself in a holiday paradise. So now that you’re planning your journey, let’s learn a bit more about how to get around Waiheke Island.

Waiheke is a place for you to reconnect with life and nature, the perfect getaway for couples or a group of friends who need some space from their daily routine.

It’s an island full of nature, beaches, art and culture, which you can easily explore by car, bike and other ways of transportation. So, throughout this text, we intend to help you find the best way for you to get around Waiheke. Carry on reading!

Getting to Waiheke Island

Before sharing a few options of how to get around Waiheke Island, you might be interested to know it’s quite easy to actually arrive here. Here are four possibilities:

Passenger ferry from Auckland Downtown

This is possibly one of the easiest ways to get to Waiheke Island. The journey on the Fullers Ferry takes about 35 minutes. The timetable can be checked on their website and booking via Direct Ferries help travellers to secure a ticket at their preferred time.

Car Ferry from Half Moon Bay and Wynyard Quarter, Auckland City

The car ferry is also a great way to reach the island, as you may comfortably come sitting in your own vehicle. This service is provided by Sealink, in a journey that takes about 45 minutes. If you prefer taking the passenger ferry, you can rent a car once you get to the island.

Private Water Taxi from Auckland Downtown

To make your holiday more exclusive, you may want to check the private water taxi service offered by companies such as Auckland Sea Shuttles. This is a great way to make your own schedule, as you can book your transportation to suit your convenience.

Helicopter

Not only does a helicopter flight is the fastest way to get to Waiheke, but also it shares with you amazing views all along the way.

You can find more information about it upon your booking, and the Omana team can send you more details once you have booked your stay with us.

8 ways to get around Waiheke Island

Now that you know a bit more about how to get to the island, we shall move on to the options for you to get around Waiheke and make the most of your holiday.

1. By car

Driving around the island is definitely a great way to explore its gems, such as wineries that are all around Waiheke, and far from Oneroa Village.

You may wish to come in your own car, taking the car ferry, which is a tremendous convenient option. On the other hand, it’s quite easy to rent a car the moment you reach the island, from Matiatia Wharf.

Bear in mind that the roads tend to be narrow and winding, but that is far from being an issue. This is just a reminder to slow down, as you are supposed to do once you arrive at this marvellous and peaceful piece of land.

It’s good to point out that we do offer parking in our luxury villas.

2. Private driver service

Hiring a private driver is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to explore Waiheke Island. Upon your booking with us, you will find more information about this service.

3. Taxi and executive transport

With a taxi or executive transport around Waiheke you can literally sit back and relax. This is quite convenient for couples on a honeymoon, group tours and guests with special mobility requirements.

There are different providers of this service, such as Island Taxis and Waiheke Executive Transport.

4. Bike around Waiheke

What a joy it’s to explore Waiheke on a bike! If you’re already used to cycling, you can bring your own bike on the ferry. If not, there are a number of bike hire services available.

Experienced cyclists and beginners are welcome to get around Waiheke on a bike, but have in mind that the roads can be narrow, as well as there are many hills – which is, at the same time, wonderful to help us all to stay healthy.

5. Scooter and Segway

There are tours for you to get around Waiheke on a scooter or Segway, which can be ultimate fun for either a couple or a small group of friends. You may need to share the road with cars, but no one on this island needs to be in a rush, right? So let’s all follow the rules and be respectful of each other.

6. Horse tours

Filled with beautiful views, the horse tours are one of the best choices to feel connected with nature whilst you get around Waiheke.

Guests can go on rides on beaches and even plan a strategic stop at the vineyards.

7. Kayak or SUP

There are quite a number of ways to get around Waiheke Island, but let’s not forget the ocean itself is a gift for our visitors. So why explore it well during your stay?

From boats to kayak or stand-up paddle hire, once you find your way on the sea, you might be greeted by lovely dolphins and even orcas.

8. Hiking

Walking is one of the most pleasurable activities to get around Waiheke. Hiking is a great opportunity to discover stunning views and breathtaking beaches. Waihekeans are so fond of walking that they even created a Walking Festival.

Find what suits you best

When planning your trip, consider the most convenient way for you to get to know the island, relax and enjoy. At the same time, open yourself to new experiences that will make you carry memories for life. Which of the examples above you haven’t tried yet?

It’s amazing to have so many options, and no matter how you choose to get around Waiheke, we are certain that you’ll find pure joy, tranquillity and relaxation during your stay.