Things To Do In Waiheke Island

1. Bird Watching

There are many other pest-free bird sanctuaries in the Hauraki Gulf, but did you know that Waiheke Island has its own collection of unique native New Zealand bird species! On the island, you can witness kaka birds, gray warblers, kereru, tui, kingfisher, New Zealand dotterel, fantail, and even blue penguins. For the best possibilities of observing birds, we recommend going for a stroll away from the towns.

2. Admire the Art

On Waiheke Island, you can fully immerse yourself in the arts! Alison Park has art galleries and stunning sculptures you can easily spend hours admiring. The Waiheke Community Art Gallery, Toi Gallery, Kauri Art Studio, and the Red Shed Art Gallery are among the other art galleries worth seeing.

3. Go Ziplining

Ziplining (or flying fox, as kiwis say) is something everyone has to experience in their life.

As you fly through the bushes on three massive ziplines, get a new view of Waiheke Island. Ecozip Adventures gives you both ziplining through and above native trees and vineyards, and a peaceful stroll back up to camp where you get to learn about the ecosystem.

4. Cycle Waiheke

Waiheke island has so much to explore, and for the more daring, you can rent a bike to explore it on the next level! The Onetangi Sports Park has grade 1-4 trails that everyone can enjoy no matter your skill level. Waiheke has a lot of hills, so if you're not up for the effort, consider trading up for an electric bike.

5. Kayak

Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding are excellent ways to explore the Waiheke Island shoreline if you're feeling brave. To discover the island's hidden jewels, either hire your gear from Matiatia Wharf, Oneroa, or Onetangi Beach, or take a guided excursion with Hekerua Lodge. It's all about going out on the water on the island! This activity can be done by yourself, or in groups of 2, 3, 5 and above!

6. Oneroa Beach

Waiheke Island is known for its abundance of beautiful beaches. Although there are other beaches on Waiheke Island, Oneroa Beach is the most accessible if you are only coming for the day. The passenger ferry arrives at Matiatia Wharf, which is about a 30-minute walk away.

If its a nice day and you have nothing to do, Oneroa beach is the place to go. You might even become a returning visitor.

For a local tip, a trip around the beach’s eastern end will reward you with spectacular views of Oneroa Beach.

7. Whakanewha National Park

This park is a stunning coastal native woodland with a vast network of walking trails to explore. You'll witness some amazing flora and wildlife, as well as some beautiful New Zealand birds including tui, piwakawaka, and kereru. There are also traditional Maori Pa and European villages, as well as a camping place for those who want to stay longer.

If you enjoy the great outdoors, Whakanewha National Park should be at the top of your Waiheke to-do list!