Image Credit:A golden eve, Waiheke Island, 1890, Newcastle, by Alfred Sharpe. Purchased 1998 with New Zealand Lottery Grants Board funds. Te Papa (1998-0035-1).jpg
Waiheke Island is an island of 92 Square Kilometres with a population of 8,000. Lying 17 kilometres from downtown Auckland the 35 minute ferry journey leaves on the hour from the Ferry Quay and cruises at speed across to Matiatia, Waiheke’s Ferry terminal.
Getting to Waiheke is usually by ferry from downtown Auckland. Alternatively there is also a ferry service from Half Moon Bay, in Eastern Auckland, and chartered flights or a helicopter ride from mainland airports to the small island airport. Waiheke is generally warmer than Auckland and has a drier climate, considered Mediterranean, which makes it great for enjoying delightful beaches and numerous outdoor activities such as swimming, cycling or kayaking. Rental of kayaks, mountain bikes, scooters and cars is possible at Matiatia – although in mid summer it is important to book these ahead. Guided tours are also available by booking ahead. Buses to the populated areas of the island coincide with the arrival of the ferries.
The other benefit of this climate is horticultural, and some of Waiheke’s wines and olive oil have received high acclaim in both local and international competitions. Wine tours are now firmly established. The limited land space and real estate prices means that wine production is focused on quality not quantity and securing large amounts is nearly impossible, however sampling the produce on the island is to be recommended and many vineyards also provide food and entertainment.
Some of the more recognised Vineyards are Goldwater, Stonyridge, Mudbrick, Peninsula Estate, Passage Rock and Kennedy Point. An annual wine festival and a jazz festival are very popular. On arriving at Waiheke’s ferry terminal you will see a colourful mural identifying Waiheke as a G.E. free zone, this is perhaps the first hint of Waiheke’s alternative lifestylers, their legacy is the surviving arts and crafts community.
There are many ways to enjoy the arts and crafts of the island, some are seasonal, such as the sculpture walk "Sculpture on the Gulf" exhibition which is held every second year. There are traditional galleries and many artist studios open to visit.
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