"Waiheke Island" Top 5 Page for this destination Waiheke Island by kiwi


Waiheke Island Travel Guide: 60 reviews and 141 photos

Waiheke is a special mix of artists, environmentalists, capitalists and vintners, escapists, beneficiaries, and of course mainland holidaymakers. Most trying to get away from something, although at first glance, I cannot think what they are getting away from as it was surprisingly similar to many suburbs of Auckland.

But an island is an island, and this one is special! Situated 20 kms of the coast of Auckland in the “Hauraki Gulf”, it has 96 kms of coastline of it’s own. I was in awe at the number of little bays and beaches, inlets and harbours, truly it’s prize asset.
Approx 92sq/kms, Waiheke is 25kms long.


These small, often individualised, holiday houses are known as 'baches'. It's short for "Bachelor", refering to single man's quarters. Adapted to describing the small, humble holiday houses found all around the coasts of New Zealand. This one is particularly attractive, looking great with the date palm in behind.

Another common site occurring over recent years is the vineyards. Apparently the climate suits and more and more are appearing.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:Lots of bays, gorgeous views, Warmer climate.
  • Cons:Ruled by the ferry times; "loose" holidaymakers.
  • In a nutshell:A Kiwi version of the Mediterranean.
  • Last visit to Waiheke Island: Apr 2003
  • Intro Updated Aug 20, 2008
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Reviews (20)

Comments (52)

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  • BruceDunning's Profile Photo
    BruceDunning Aug 19, 2009 at 1:23 PM Report Abuse

    You hiking and going through the nature looks appealing. Even though it is far away form me, I hope to get that way someday. In meantime, I will read your comments and look at the pictures.

  • freespirit1's Profile Photo
    freespirit1 May 12, 2009 at 12:51 AM Report Abuse

    Ah to be sitting in front of the fire listening to the waves crashing now.

  • Yaqui's Profile Photo
    Yaqui Nov 8, 2008 at 6:05 PM Report Abuse

    Wonderful page fills with great tips and advice! Your photographs are wonderful too! Great page and thank you for sharing your wonderful travels!

  • Jim_Eliason's Profile Photo
    Jim_Eliason Aug 19, 2008 at 3:27 AM Report Abuse

    Nice tips Pam!

  • JVT's Profile Photo
    JVT Jun 28, 2008 at 4:10 PM Report Abuse

    Loved to read about Waiheke Island, which I've visited 2 years ago. I wouldn't descibe it as Mediterranean, though! That special Pacific Ocean turquoise-blue sea was what struck me most. I can't wait to read more of your pages! Thanks!

  • angiebabe's Profile Photo
    angiebabe Sep 26, 2007 at 5:11 PM Report Abuse

    nice to see your tips, keeps the kiwi thing in tune, i need some kumara chips now though!

  • mvtouring's Profile Photo
    mvtouring Feb 14, 2007 at 12:49 AM Report Abuse

    Fantastic tips and photo's. Saw a programme on the island and it was great ;-)

  • Freebeacher's Profile Photo
    Freebeacher Oct 14, 2006 at 9:20 PM Report Abuse

    Waiheke looks like a place I want to be. But..how do locals afford the ferry? I read $25 return!? Going to Auckland is big bucks.

  • Kate-Me's Profile Photo
    Kate-Me Aug 31, 2006 at 9:19 PM Report Abuse

    Another great spot! Might have to add this one to my "to do list" as well! Thanks Pam.

  • skywalkerbeth's Profile Photo
    skywalkerbeth May 17, 2006 at 3:19 PM Report Abuse

    A beautiful house on Waiheke was spotlighted on HGTV - Extreme Homes - wow!

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