Why Waiheke Island in New Zealand is a Must-See

August 11, 2016
Wetravel Story Writer
2 min read
Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is situated 30 minutes from Auckland, New-Zealand, by ferry, in the Hauraki Gulf and is a great place if you love hiking. There are plenty of tracks you can follow, for a day (or more!) full of discoveries and great views.

Waiheke Island

You can rent a car or a bike when you arrive there, but some roads are accessible only by foot, and of course they are the most beautiful. For today's post, I invite you to follow me as I spent two days there, first walking south, and then walking north on the steep paths.

Waiheke Island

Two Days on Waiheke Island

As you can see, the first day the weather was a bit moody, but the landscape still looks amazing. We walked a lot, up and down the hills, to secret beaches hidden behind holes in caves. It was our first time there, so we were a bit surprised by the difficulty. But even if you're not very fit, if you walk at your own pace, you will be able to do it.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island 2

You might also say hello to some cows peacefully chewing grass with a great view!

Waiheke Island

Waiheke island is nicknamed "Island of wine," because winegrowers have mastered the maritime climate and soil structures to produce red and white wines. You will walk near the vineyard and maybe, if you're lucky, will be able to visit one and taste some!

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

The second day, the weather was much better (and warmer); we decided to walk north, to see a different landscape, and honestly, what can I say? I'll let the pictures speak for themselves!

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island

The hike was as hard as the first day, and as steep, but once at the top, the views were amazing. We decided to spend some time at the beach to chill and cool down, and this time we went back to the village a bit earlier to enjoy it.

Tips for Waiheke Island:

    • When you arrive on the island, take a map at the visitor center. There are not a lot of hiking paths, but you will want to know where you are and where the next bathroom is.

Waiheke Island

    • Anticipate your needs. Take an extra jacket, food and water in your backpack. Sometimes you'll walk for some time in the middle of nature with nothing nearby! Of course, don't wear flip flops, take your best sneakers (but not the best looking, you might ruin them!)

Waiheke Island

    • At the end of your walk, you can either come back to the village by bus, or walk back to the ferry if you have time. Check the time table at the visitor center so you don't miss the last one!

Waiheke Island