Waiheke Island walkways

Image of Waiheke Island

Discover the uniqueness that is Waiheke.
Unspoiled sandy beaches, lush native bush,
fabulous views, and the island's best walkways.

Just waiting to be explored.

Free summer guided walks

Auckland City Council is providing free guided walks on Waiheke Island every Wednesday, from the beginning of December 2009 through to the end of February 2010 (except Wednesday 30 December). No bookings required.

Catch the 10am Fullers ferry from Auckland's ferry building to Waiheke Island. A professional guide will meet you at the Matiatia Ferry Terminal on Waiheke with a sign saying 'Free guided walks'.

You'll need to be fairly fit. Each walk is approximately 1 to 2 hours and will usually include a mix of coastal, bush and hill tracks. There will be a different route each week. All walks are suitable for dogs.

The walks will take place rain or shine, there is no rain date.

Think Waiheke Island and the words sunshine, sandy beaches, vineyards and ferries all spring immediately to mind. But Waiheke is much more than this. It is an island begging to be explored. Auckland City Council's vast network of walkways makes this a pleasure.

Whether it is the quiet solitude and unique fragrance of the native bush or the stunning views from cliff-tops and headlands which appeals, Waiheke's walkways offer a diversity and tranquillity rarely found so close to the city. There are many areas of historic interest and large tracts of reserve land. The numerous native wood pigeons are fascinating to observe and beautiful in flight. This information details of the island's major walkways, and their side trips, which can either shorten or lengthen the walk, according to preference.

While Waiheke Island is generally sunnier and warmer than Auckland, it is always advisable to carry warm clothing, use sunscreen, wear a sunhat and sensible walking shoes, and take plenty of liquids. Many of the island's roads are narrow and winding so care should be taken when walking on these.

Updated June 2009