This International Friendship Day (July 30th), trade your group chat for a group getaway and set sail for a soul-warming winter adventure on Waiheke Island. Think vineyard strolls, artsy finds, a long lunch, and golden hour toasts with your best friends. With Fullers360, it couldn’t be easier to plan a day your friends will talk about for years.
Set sail
The day begins on the 10am sailing from Auckland’s Downtown Ferry Terminal. As you step aboard the Fullers360 ferry and find a window seat, you’ll watch the city skyline dissolve behind you, giving way to the glassy calm of the Hauraki Gulf.
There’s a quiet magic in that 40-minute ride - enough time to sip a coffee from the onboard café, chat about the day ahead, and feel the anticipation build.
Coffee and creativity in Oneroa Village
Once you dock at Matiatia, it’s a short ride to the charming village of Oneroa.
First stop: Akito Café - a bright, plant-based café known for its vibrant, seasonal plates and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re into turmeric tofu scramble or vegan pancakes with poached pear, everything comes with a side of friendly locals and cosy warmth. Pair it with a creamy oat flat white or their cacao maca smoothie.
From there, let the morning unfold with a gentle stroll through Oneroa’s arty lanes. Pop into Toi Gallery, a local gem filled with New Zealand artworks, then wander to the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, where the rotating exhibitions and Sculpture Garden invite slow, meaningful exploration.
Long lunch with a view at Batch Winery
By midday, your group is ready for something more indulgent. Head to Batch Winery, nestled on a breezy coastal ridge that overlooks the island. It’s laid-back yet polished, with winter sunlight streaming through large windows and a menu designed for sharing.
Order from a rotating seasonal menu and pair with a “Gulf Breeze” cocktail - a citrusy, herbaceous favourite - or explore their curated wine flights, featuring small-batch vintage releases you won’t find elsewhere.
Tip: Take out even more planning with our Waiheke Wine and Dine tour inclusive of a set multi-course lunch and a glass of wine from their set menu at Batch Winery.
After your meal, stretch your legs with a peaceful wander along the nearby Nikau Estate bush trail - a gentle native forest loop filled with birdsong, perfect for walking off lunch and soaking in the stillness.
Golden hour at Mudbrick Vineyard
As the afternoon light softens, make your way to Mudbrick Vineyard, one of Waiheke’s most iconic and romantic settings. Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Mudbrick is a feast for the senses - lavender-edged paths, warm stone walls, and crackling fireplaces that welcome you in from the chill.
Settle in for a wine tasting or toast the day with a glass of Francesca Rosé as the sky turns golden. Their Archive Bar & Bistro offers an intimate setting for this final chapter -share a few small plates or simply sip and savour the view.
Tip: Book ahead and request a west-facing table around 4:30pm - the light show is pure magic.
“That view from Mudbrick at sunset?! Unreal. Best day trip we’ve ever done.” – Google review, July 2024
Back to the city
As dusk settles, catch your return ferry to Auckland (check the ferry timetables). Take a final look back at Waiheke’s sparkling lights as you talk about your highlights - perhaps even your next friendship focused escape.
Book your Fullers360 ferry now
How to get to Waiheke Island
Ferries depart from Auckland CBD (Downtown Ferry Terminal) and Devonport.
Booking
- Book your ferry online, via fullers.co.nz
- At the Eastern Heritage ticket office located along Quay Street (Auckland departures only),
- At Self-service kiosks, located at both Auckland and Devonport wharfs.
Morning sailings: Typically from around 6:30 am to midday.
Return options: Range into the evening, check our timetable.
Getting around the island
Western Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off bus
The Western Explorer bus lets you hop between vineyards, beaches, galleries, and Oneroa. It departs from right outside Matiatia Ferry terminal.
- In winter, buses run every hour.
- Please plan your trip ahead of time when travelling on the Western Explorer Bus to make the most of your activities on the island.
- Find more information on this brochure.
Car hire at Waiheke GO Rentals
Get a bit more flexibility with your travel by hiring a car to cruise around the island.
Even better, bundle up your ferry travel with your on-island transport with our Ferry and Car Hire package.
FAQ
Q: When is International Friendship Day?
A: In 2025, it falls on Saturday 30 July - though you can celebrate any day who say.
Q: Can I do this tour in winter?
A: Absolutely! This itinerary has been planned for winter. Vineyards stay open, the ferry runs year-round, and there’s a certain crisp air charm when the crowds are smaller.
Q: Do I need to book vineyard tastings?
A: Weekends and holidays - yes, best to book ahead. During weekdays or off-peak, walk-ins are often fine.
Q: Are there dietary options available?
A: Yes - most venues offer gluten free, vegetarian, and pescatarian options. When booking through our website, just include your dietary requirements at the checkout.
Q: Is Waiheke wheelchair/pram friendly?
A: Oneroa Village and major vineyards usually are, but the coastal path and hidden tracks are unsuitable. We recommend checking with the venue directly for accessibility details.
What other travellers say
“Our Girls’ Waiheke trip with Fullers360 was everything we hoped for...great wine, easy travel, no surprises. Still talking about that sunrise ferry!” – @sarah.and.liz on Instagram*
“Mudbrick’s courtyard lunch was the highlight. Wine, views and a live acoustic pianist – ♡” – Facebook review from Fullers360 page
“Loved seeing the secret bay and finding those WWII bunkers...we felt like we’d discovered a private island.” – @kiwisgetoutdoor on Instagram**
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