Auckland
- Waiheke Island
22 km (14 miles)
Approximately 0.75 hour
Road Conditions: By Sea
Auckland is situated between two enormous harbours and dotted with 48 extinct volcanic cones. It’s regularly named one of the best places in the world to live. In the Hauraki Gulf, to the east of the city, there are several beautiful islands for travellers to visit - Waiheke is an all-year-round favourite.
The ferry link between Auckland and Waiheke Island comes in two forms. Fast passenger ferries travel from Auckland’s central business district to Matiatia Bay in just 30 minutes. Vehicular ferries operate between Half Moon Bay marina in east Auckland and Kennedy Point.
Waiheke is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. There's a good choice of accommodation - from luxury retreats to backpacker hostels. Visits to vineyards, art studios and cafes will keep you busy, or you could simply find a perfect beach and make relaxation your top priority. Waiheke’s also a great place for horse riding, golf and sea kayaking. Transport options include bus, taxi, rental car and motorcycle.
Scenic Highlights
Auckland's volcanic cones
Climb green volcanic cones in the heart of a large city to peer into deep craters and explore ancient Maori earthworks. Look out over the harbours, islands and beyond.
Devonport & North Head
Discover colonial cottages, stately waterfront homes and World War II defences that run deep into a volcanic cone.
Hunua Ranges
Enjoy nature walks, mountain biking, fishing and camping in the largest mainland forest within the Auckland region.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Learn about plants from New Zealand and around the world. This beautiful garden offers 64 hectares of cleverly themed displays.
Tamaki Drive and beaches
Enjoy on-street cafes, park-like picnic areas and safe sandy beaches just minutes from Auckland's central business district.
Parnell Historic Walk
Explore the historic houses and buildings of Parnell, New Zealand's first suburb. Be tempted by great cafes and specialty shops along the way.
Coast to Coast Walk
Walk across New Zealand in one day. This 16 kilometre walkway explores parks, volcanic cones and historic suburbs across the Auckland isthmus.
Long Bay Regional Park
Pack a picnic and head for a waterfront park just 20 kilometres from the city centre. Relax on the long sandy beach or hike along the headland.
Auckland Domain
Fly a kite, feed ducks, walk through native forest or follow a trail of outdoor sculptures in this magnificent inner city park.
Auckland's North Shore beaches
Dip your toes into the North Shore's beachy lifestyle. A series of sandy bays stretches from Cheltenham to Torbay.
Motu Manawa (Pollen Island) Marine Reserve, Waitemata Harbour
A haven for wading and sea birds, you can see this marine reserve from Auckland's northwestern motorway.
Te Matuku Marine Reserve
Paddle a sea kayak around Te Matuku Marine Reserve on Waiheke Island. Watch birds and enjoy the tranquility.
Motuihe Island
Visit a picturesque island that is becoming a new wildlife sanctuary. Enjoy walks, beautiful sandy beaches and glimpses of the island's intriguing history.
Rangitoto Island
Cross the harbour on a ferry to step onto an alien volcanic landscape. Explore native forests and lava caves on the way to panoramic views from the edge of the summit crater.
Waiheke Island
Cruise out of Auckland harbour to explore a beautiful island with vineyards, cafes, beaches and hiking trails.
Waitakere Ranges
In half an hour you can leave the city behind to explore a vast forest park with waterfalls, rivers, giant kauri trees and wild ocean beaches.
Activities
Auckland
Arts & Crafts (7),
Sailing (9),
Wineries (6)
Tour and Sightseeing
Auckland
Arts & Crafts (1),
Wineries (13)
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