How to get to Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is 17.7 km from Downtown Auckland, around 40 to 45 minutes by ferry from Piers 11 and 12 at the ferry terminal on Quay Street. You can travel on the Waiheke Walk-up service with a Standard or Priority ticket, or book Reserve, a dedicated ferry service with its own vessel.
Compare the three Waiheke ferry tickets before you book.
What to do on the island
Vineyards
Food
Beaches
Walking tracks
Shopping
How to get around the island
Hire a private vehicle and explore at your own pace; check out our Waiheke Island car hire.
Make use of the Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus, a flexible and convenient way to see Waiheke your way. The bus meets each ferry on arrival every weekday and stops at 15 stops around the island including popular vineyards, beaches and restaurants.
Public transport is available on the island and most services connect with ferry arrival and departure times.
Hit the pedals and explore Waiheke Island on a mountain bike or e-bike. Cycle to cafés, past vineyards, or on rugged coastal tracks. Check out Waiheke bike and e-bike hire.
Experiences on the island
Waiheke Island
Eastern Explorer Long Lunch
Discover Waiheke Island's best kept secret. This is Waiheke's lesser known, awe-inspiring side, with a blend of dramatic views, adventurous tastes, and rich history all packaged into a laid-back experience.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Eastern Explorer Bus
Discover Waiheke Islands best kept secret. This is Waiheke’s lesser known, awe-inspiring side, with a blend of dramatic views, adventurous tastes, and rich history all packaged into an unforgettable experience.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Western Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Waiheke’s world-famous vineyards, beaches, and villages with the easiest way to explore at your own pace.
Waiheke Island
Taste of Waiheke
Looking for the ultimate day out on Waiheke Island? The Taste of Waiheke tour ticks all the boxes with a vineyard lunch and a variety of tastings at the best spots on the island.
Waiheke Island
Wine and Dine
Enjoy return ferry tickets, a tour of Waiheke Island and an iconic winery experience as part of this popular food and wine package.
Waiheke Island
Vineyard Explorer
Experience three of Waiheke Island’s best wineries and take a tour of the island with the Fullers360’s Vineyard Explorer package.
Waiheke Island
Zip, Wine and Dine
Take the ultimate day trip to Waiheke Island on the Zip, Wine and Dine package with the combination of the iconic Ecozip Adventure tour and our popular Taste of Waiheke tour.
Waiheke Island
Ferry and Car hire
Fullers360’s Ferry and Car Hire provides you with the flexibility to explore Waiheke Island end to end.
Waiheke Island
Man O' War shuttle bus
Our weekend transfer service connects Matiatia with Waiheke’s eastern end, giving you a simple, reliable way to plan your day.
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Sea, Land and Sky
Experience the gorgeous Waiheke Island by ferry, bus and a scenic plane as part of Fullers360’s premier experience package.
Waiheke Island
Ferry and e-Bike hire
With expansive vistas at every turn, Waiheke Island is an e-bikers dream. Hit the pedals and cycle between the many vineyards on the island, stop at cafés and boutique shops, enjoy a pit stop at the beach or get adventurous and cycle one of the islands rugged coastal tracks.
Waiheke Island
EcoZip Adventure Tour
Fly on three separate ziplines high above a vineyard and lush forest canopies, taking in breath-taking views over the Hauraki Gulf and back to the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island?
The Fullers360 ferry from Downtown Auckland (Piers 11 & 12) to Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. Some services stop via Devonport and take around 10 minutes longer.
Q: How much does the Waiheke Island ferry cost?
Adult return fares start at $65 with a Standard walk-up ticket. Priority, which lets you book your sailing time and board first, is $75. Reserve, a separate ferry service, is $104. Compare all three Waiheke ferry tickets to see which suits your day.
Q: How often does the Waiheke Island ferry run?
Fullers360 runs up to 22 ferry services per day to Waiheke Island on peak days. On weekdays, sailings depart from 6:00 am through to 11:45 pm. Weekend and public holiday services run from 7:00 am. Sailings are available 7 days a week, year-round.
Q: Where does the Waiheke Island ferry depart from in Auckland?
Fullers360 ferries to Waiheke Island depart from Piers 11 & 12 at the Downtown Ferry Terminal, 99 Quay Street, Auckland CBD. The terminal is a short walk from Britomart train station and the city centre.
Q: Can I take a bike on the Waiheke Island ferry?
Yes, bikes and scooters are welcome on Fullers360 ferries to Waiheke Island, subject to availability and vessel capacity. We recommend checking the travel information page for current conditions before travelling.
Q: Is there a cheaper way to travel to Waiheke Island regularly?
Yes. Fullers360 offers commuter passes and the Waiheke Weekly Pass for regular travellers, 8 or 10 trips in a 14-day window, available in the Fullers360 app, starting from $129. Monthly and annual passes are also available for daily commuters.
Q: Who operates the Waiheke Island ferry?
Fullers360 is the ferry operator between Downtown Auckland and Waiheke Island. Fullers360 has been operating Hauraki Gulf ferry services for over 40 years and holds Qualmark Gold accreditation.
Q: Do I need to book in advance for the Waiheke ferry?
Walk-up tickets are available and valid for one year from purchase.
Hauraki Gulf destinations
New Zealand's largest and most diverse city, Auckland is a bustling hub for outstanding food, shopping, and entertainment.
Rangitoto’s rugged beauty is pure adventure. Just off Auckland’s coast, this volcanic icon invites you to hike to the summit for lava fields, native bush, and seriously epic views.
A world away from the western end of the island, visit the east of Waiheke Island for its untouched beauty, picturesque views and mouth-watering vineyards.
Travel with us
Understanding our Waiheke ferry fares
FAQ's
Accessible travel
Terms and conditions
Travel to all destinations is subject to Fullers360 Terms and Conditions and Code of Conduct.
