about waiheke island

The jewel in the hauraki gulf

Just 35 minutes from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is internationally regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, and has just been named number 5 in Lonely Planet's Top 10 list of destinations to visit in 2016. Often referred to as the Jewel in the Hauraki Gulf or the Playground of the Gods, Waiheke Island is the perfect mix of beauty, wilderness, vibrance and relaxed seclusion. 

The island's unique stunning landscapes blend intimate rocky coves, sweeping white sandy beaches and rolling hills clad in native bush and vineyards, and it attract backpackers and billionaires alike, who travel from all over the world to do the same thing...relax, enjoy and watch the world go by.

Packed with a rich history which weaves together the Maori heritage of the past with the modern day present, it has a fantastically diverse community made up of holiday makers, artists, craftspeople, eccentric locals and famous artisan food & wine producers. However, it is for our gorgeous scenery, including over 100kms of hiking tracks that Waiheke is perhaps best known for. At iWalkWaiheke we showcase the very best the island has to offer in the best way possible…by foot!