10 fun things to do without a car on Waiheke Island
Looking for exciting adventures on Waiheke Island without the need for a car? Great news!
Explore our comprehensive guide to the best activities for car-free travelers. From wine tasting at renowned vineyards to beach hopping along pristine shores, we've got you covered. Uncover hidden gems like scenic walking trails, vibrant art galleries, and culinary delights at local cafes and restaurants. Dive into cultural experiences, olive grove tours, and thrilling outdoor pursuits like kayaking and paddleboarding. Don't miss out on the ultimate Waiheke Island experience – start planning your car-free adventure today!
We hear people ask questions such as:
How to get around on Waiheke Island
How to pay for a bus on Waiheke Island?
Do you need a hop card for Waiheke bus?
Can you use a gold card on Waiheke buses?
Is Uber available on Waiheke?
Waiheke Island offers plenty of activities even if you don't have a car. Here are some ideas:
1. Explore Vineyards, Breweries and Distilleries: Waiheke is famous for its wineries, and newer options including our own whisky distillery on Waiheke Island, and brewery visits. Some vineyards are within walking or biking distance from the ferry terminal. You can join wine tours, choose the Hop on Hop Off bus option, or simply wander through the vineyards, tasting wines along the way.
2. Beach Hopping: Waiheke has numerous beautiful beaches. You can take a bus or walk to beaches like Oneroa Beach, Palm Beach, and Onetangi Beach for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the coastal views. Most beaches have playgrounds, and many have free BBQ’s to use -the best playgrounds are at Little Oneroa Beach and Palm Beach.
3. Walking and Hiking Trails: There are various walking and hiking trails across the island that showcase its natural beauty. The Te Ara Hura coastal walk offers stunning views of the coastline, and the Matiatia Headland Track provides panoramic vistas of the Hauraki Gulf.
4. Art Galleries and Studios: Waiheke Island has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries and studios to explore. You can visit places like the Waiheke Community Art Gallery or take a stroll through the streets of Oneroa to discover local artists' works.
5. Cafes and Restaurants: Waiheke has a diverse range of cafes and restaurants offering delicious cuisine. Spend some time exploring the culinary scene, from beachside cafes to fine dining establishments.
6. Olive Grove Tours: In addition to vineyards, Waiheke is also known for its olive groves. You can join olive grove tours to learn about olive cultivation and taste different varieties of olive oil.
7. Cultural Experiences: Visit places like the Waiheke Museum and Historic Village to learn about the island's history and culture. You can also attend local events or festivals if any are happening during your visit.
8. Bike Rentals: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. There are bike rental shops near the ferry terminal, and Waiheke's relatively small size makes it easy to get around on two wheels.
9. Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the coastline and hidden coves by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Several operators offer guided tours or equipment rentals for independent exploration.
10. Relax and Enjoy the Views: Sometimes, the best thing to do on Waiheke Island is simply to relax and soak in the stunning views. Find a peaceful spot overlooking the ocean or vineyards and unwind amidst nature's beauty.
You can use the local bus service which is regular, modern and good value - at present you still need a HOP CARD to use the bus - they don’t take cash or eftpos. You can get a HOP Card at the ferry terminal in Auckland or here on Waiheke Island when you get off the ferry. You can buy a Hop ON Hop OFF bus ticket with your ferry ticket or on its own if you come on a a different waiheke ferry timetable or company.
If you prefer to have a car here you can rent a car on Waiheke Island from GoRentals, or Waiheke Car Rentals.
For more on How to get to Waiheke Island and what to do when you are here, click to our thorough blog post on this.
We can’t wait to see you here at The Heke for lunch, dinner, whisky and beer tastings, and gin flights too! You can book here to come and see us.
