Walk Waiheke

Discover the Island's stunning walkways - no excuses!

Pull up those socks, lace up those boots, fill up your water bottle and pack a little scroggin… Waiheke and its walkways are begging to be explored!

Experience the contrast of sandy beaches and native bush lying side by side; appreciate spectacular views over the Hauraki Gulf, and the countless historic sites scattered through the island, many of which can only be accessed by foot. Waiheke is also idyllic for spotting some of New Zealand's rare native bird species, so make sure you remember your binoculars!

Whether it is an energetic power walk or a laid back stroll, Waiheke Island has walking options for everyone.

Choose from one of four walking tracks highlighted below, or read more information on available tracks on Waiheke.

Option 1 - Matiatia, Church Bay, Oneroa loop (southern walk)

One of the most picturesque points of Waiheke Island, this walk is ideal for taking in the best sights of Matiatia Bay. Its close proximity to the ferry terminal makes this a rather convenient option also.

Along this walk you'll enjoy stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf, a variety of historic sites and get a good feel for the island's native flora and fauna. A stop at Cable Bay Vineyard (12 Nick Johnston Drive) could also be included in the itinerary, where you can enjoy premium Waiheke wine.

Option 2 - Matiatia, Owhanake, Oneroa

Stepping off the ferry at Matiatia you can immediately begin this scenic walk, which follows the coast line and ventures through the Matietie Historic Reserve and onto Cable Bay, Owhanake Bay, Island Bay and Oneroa Bay.

En route is the small village of Oneroa where numerous cafés, shops and amenities are available for those wanting to take a break from nature. Whether it's time for a sandwich or a cup of coffee, Oneroa is the ideal place to recharge the batteries before you complete the rest of your walk back to Matiatia.

For your convenience buses number 1, 2 and 3 all travel through Oneroa and either back to Matiatia or, in the other direction, towards Onetangi and Rocky Bay.

Option 3 - Rocky Bay (featuring Whakanewha Regional Park)

Catch bus number 2 or 3 from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal, headed to Rocky Bay. As you step off at the last stop, your exploration begins in the Southern Bays of Waiheke.

The 2700 hectare Whakanewha Regional Park is a prominent feature of the walk, taking you through mature native bush to the cascades and is an ideal setting to view some of New Zealand's rare native bird species. A number of Maori archaeological sites also exist throughout the park.

You can, if you choose, set up camp in the Regional Park DOC campgrounds, and continue your adventure the following day. On completing the walk you'll arrive back at Rocky Bay, where again you can catch bus number 2 or 3 back to Matiatia.

Option 4 - Onetangi

This walk takes in the best of Onetangi and its surrounding scenery.

Start by catching the Onetangi bus from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal, dropping you at The Strand where this track begins.

If you love the sounds and sights of the outdoors, this walk is for you! On this track you'll have the option to walk through a number of scenic reserves, giving you a chance to view unique bird and plant life.

Also along the way is stunning Onetangi Beach; Waiheke's biggest beach. This makes for an ideal rest spot to enjoy a packed lunch and simply soak in the sun!

To Book

You can book tickets to Waiheke online or call 09 367 9111