Adventure

Waiheke Island Activities

The scenic charms of Waiheke Island are best explored on foot. Walkways around the island offer stunning views, serene native bush and reserves, and charming villages, all just waiting to be discovered.

Whakanewha Regional Park, located on the south side of the island, provides a coastal forest habitat to many rare birds and plants. Steeped in Maori and European history, Whakanewha is an ideal picnic and camping spot for visitors.

Waiheke Island is a creative haven for local and internationally-renowned artists. Sightseers can visit local studios and galleries, with paintings, sculptures, jewellery, carvings and pottery available for purchase. The Waiheke Community Art Gallery hosts an array of innovative exhibitions annually, and the art shop boasts some of New Zealand’s finest glassware and pottery.

Waiheke is also a sanctuary for those seeking relaxation and self-discovery, with the Waiheke Wellbeing Collective offering holistic and spiritual therapies, including yoga, massage, counselling and healing arts.

The Waiheke Market is a local institution after nearly 25, with locals selling gourmet foods and homemade crafts, as well as health and relaxation services and live entertainment on offer. The market is held every Saturday morning between 8:30am and 12:30pm at the Ostend Reserve and Hall.

Scenic sailing adventures and flights are also available, and windsurfing, mountain-biking, horse riding and sea-kayaking.