Waiheke Island

Kia Ora,

This adventure took place a little closer to home than some of my other adventures- though it was definitely an overdue adventure. Me, Dannii, Ella and Tommy hopped on an early morning ferry to the very beautiful Waiheke Island, a 40 minute crossing from Auckland’s docks. We were making the most of what could be the near-end of summer sun- the perfect weather for the wine-cultured island.

Watching the distinctive skyline of Auckland fade away we passed by a couple of smaller islands before reaching Waiheke. At docking we walked over to Oneroa, one of a few villages on the island. There was a no real presence of Auckland here, instead it was a beautiful, untouched coastal village. And as the island is not sheltered from the Pacific Ocean, the sea breeze felt so refreshing!

After taking in some of the views over the ocean, we moved on to Onetangi and did a small bush walk. We spied a lot of Tui’s and heard plenty of other birds. We were all pretty hungry after this so parked ourselves at a café with a sea view and ate very well!

Then we partook in Waiheke Islands greatest attraction, wine tasting! We visited just one of the 17 vineyards on the island, because it was as far as we were willing to walk. The chosen vineyard: Obsidian. We got a little lesson in how the vineyard produces their wine and all pretended to look a little sophisticated and knowledgeable. We bought the Pinot Grois (2013) vintage which accompanied us for the rest of the day on the beach!

As obligated, we swam at the beach, worked on a tan and just talked nonsense! And this saw our day out until we were ready to go home via the ferry. A very relaxed day on beautiful Waiheke.

Kia Ora,

Ben