Close to the city of Auckland is an idyllic island paradise favoured by international travellers and celebrities. It offers guests a memorable getaway in one of New Zealand’s most sought after locations. Well known for its white sandy beaches, magnificent wineries and laid back lifestyle, Waiheke Island provides visitors with a treasure trove of discoveries.
Helicopter services to the Island are able to deliver you from Auckland Airport in just 12 minutes. However, you may choose to travel by ferry from the Ferry Terminal in downtown Auckland. This service provides a pleasant 40-minute boat trip through the Hauraki Gulf with arrival into picturesque Matiatia Bay.
Waiheke Island attracts a diverse group of creative and interesting people. Bush clad roads meander around the undulating hills of the island revealing its natural beauty and offering breath taking views of the majestic coastline. From humble beach homes to lavish villas, the overall feeling here is relaxed and informal
Read about how villas are the safe travel option for the future here.
Summer is a great time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Waiheke which include popular Oneroa Bay, my personal favourite Palm Beach and the long shoreline at Onetangi. All the beaches offer safe swimming and water sports or simply choose to picnic and relax. For the more adventurous there are chartered yachts available to further explore the coastline. There are also guided island walks where you can connect with nature. A flying fox dual zipline takes visitors on an exhilarating ride through native forest.
Gourmet Dining Experiences
Renowned for boutique wineries and award-winning restaurants, specialized tours for this are popular. A favourite is the Mud Brick Winery and Restaurant which is a must visit. The restaurant and store sits proudly atop a hill with unparalleled island and ocean views towards the cityscape of Auckland. It is well known for its tasteful selection of wine and fabulous food. Set amongst delightful gardens, this idyllic location revels in magnificent sunsets.
Waiheke is a well known cultural haven for artists and sculptors with unique art galleries and artistic sculpture trails. Locals adore their laid back island lifestyle and embrace the natural environment away from the pressures of city living. A variety of shopping includes fashionable boutiques in the charming township of Oneroa. My favourite stop is the Little Island Grocer deli store where you can purchase local and exotic foods and fresh organic produce.
There is a selection of world class restaurants on the island offering fine dining. Top-quality venues include:
- The internationally acclaimed Tantalus Estate Restaurant
- Multi award-winning Three Seven Two
- Popular Stoney Ridge Vineyard
- Italian dining at Poderi Crisci
- Mudbrick Winery and Restaurant.
However when staying at a Villa Getaways luxury villa, we can arrange for the services of a private chef to take care of your catering needs if desired. Of course you can also order gourmet meals to be delivered to your villa.
Special Events
Waiheke Island is a popular destination for weddings and special occasions. Our Villa Getaways villas are perfect venues for family or friends holidaying together, special events and corporate retreats. The following is a sampling of some of the villas available offering idyllic island escapes with more to choose from on our website.
Villa 6116
This impressive villa with tennis court and swimming pool, provides everything you need for a luxury villa vacation.
Villa 6105
Outstanding views over the bay and beyond are enjoyed from the elevated position of this prestigious villa.
Villa 6101
A top pick from Lady Gaga, this exclusive villa features an eclectic collection of Polynesian art and provides a magical island escape.
Villa 6148
This exceptional high end villa is located in a secluded paradise with its own private beach access.
Enquire now and plan your next luxury Villa Getaway.