Getting around Waiheke
There are so many things to see and do on the island and just as many ways to get around Waiheke including public transport, taxi services, bike rentals and tour groups. Regular bus services provide transport to the main areas on the island and all routes start at Matiatia Wharf. A new route has recently been added that also services the Sealink ferry at Kennedy Point.
Private Tours with Waiheke Freedom Tours
We think the best way to see the island is on one of our private tours. What sets Freedom Tours apart? Our luxury 4WD tour whisks you away from the crowds to the stunning less accessible parts of the island the larger corporate bus tours can’t reach, including the rugged dirt roads with incredible views across the Hauraki Gulf.
As our name suggests we specialise in tailored private tours so just let us know if there are particular places that you would like to visit and we will craft a tour just for you! Simply book one of our suggested itineraries or contact us to find out more.
Waiheke by Bus
The most economical way to get around the main areas of the island is by bus. There are regular services from Matiatia Wharf to the Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi. Although public transport is a great way to get around, you are restricted to the main bus route and locations. Also, a lot of your time will be spent waiting for buses that can get hot and crowded. For timetables check here https://at.govt.nz/pttimetables
Taxi Services
If you want to get to your accommodation from the ferry terminal or to a specific venue or vineyard, then taking a taxi is a quick and convenient solution. You can either pre-book or just grab one from outside Matiatia Wharf.
Taxi rates are quite expensive however, for example, Onetangi Beach is approx. $45, Batch Winery $55 and Poderi Crisci $75. So if you want to see more of the island it’s best to book a tour or rent a vehicle.
Waiheke Island Taxis – Call (09) 372 4111
Waiheke Executive Transport – Call (09) 372 0097
Waicabs – Call 0800 924 222
Waiheke Car Rentals
If you are staying on the island for any length of time, renting a car could be a great way of exploring the island in your own time.
Cars can be rented through Waiheke Auto Rentals and Waiheke Rental Cars.
Bicycle and scooter hire
Mountain bikes, electric bikes and scooters are available to rent and a great way of getting around the island:
eCycles & Bikes&barbers – 022 050 2233
Island Scoot – 21061 5997
Waiheke Bike Hire – 09 372 7937
Tour Companies
There are lots of options for taking a tour on the island. The most popular are group wine tours. There are also walking tours, cycling tours and art/culture tours available.
The main tour operators are:
Ananda Tours – 09 372 7530
Waihehe Island Wine Tours – 09 3722140
Waiheke Wine Tours – 09 3727342
Waivino Tours – 021 471 666
Walking By Nature – 021 669 722
Waiheke Horse Tours – 021 438 549
