Waiheke Island in Review
Only 35 minutes from Auckland by ferry lays Waiheke Island, a tropical paradise in the Hauraki Gulf and a magical New Zealand experience. Visitors are enthralled by the beaches’ fine sands and natural beauty and like to spend time here with family, kids and friends. The calm waters make this an ideal spot for swimming, relaxing and sunbathing.
Soft adventure such as horse riding, hiking or diving and romantic, secluded beaches lure many honeymooners and couples who choose Waiheke Island as their perfect wedding destination.
Inland, you will discover the world’s most exclusive vineyards, producing top quality wines and hosting an annual wine festival. Waiheke's climate has proven to be well suited to growing Bordeaux wine-type grapes, though some Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc varieties are also considered to be good. The “Island of Wine” is also the stage of the Easter Waiheke Jazz Festival. For three days, Jazz tunes are heard through the beautiful vineyards and weekend trippers from around the country join international visitors in this festive atmosphere.
Accommodation is widely available for all budgets, from luxury boutique resorts to backpacker hostels, although you wouldn’t be the first to fall in love with the sound of nature and tropical island pace and stay forever.
From our editor T. Ireland – Sydney