Onetangi: Where Beach Days Meet Wine Country

Nestled on the northern coast of Waiheke Island, Onetangi is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its name, meaning "weeping sands" in Māori, harks back to a significant battle in 1821 during the Musket Wars. Today, Onetangi invites visitors to relax on its expansive beach, explore local vineyards, and immerse themselves in the island's unique charm.

Beachside Bliss

Onetangi Beach, the island's longest stretch of golden sand, offers a serene setting for swimming, sunbathing, and beachside walks. The gentle waves make it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, while the wide shoreline is perfect for beach games or simply unwinding under the sun. You might spot local families playing cricket, travellers lounging with a book, or even a yoga session in progress as the sun rises over the Hauraki Gulf.

During low tide, the beach reveals tidal pools and interesting shells, making it a great place for kids to explore. And for those who love long walks, the beach stretches far enough for a satisfying stroll with plenty of photo ops along the way.

Culinary Delights

Onetangi boasts some of Waiheke's finest dining experiences:

• Three Seven Two: An award-winning restaurant known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes and creative cocktails.

• Ki Māha: Stylish dining with ocean views, ideal for a romantic dinner or special celebration.

• Charlie Farley’s: A casual beach bar offering relaxed food, beers, cocktails, and live music weekends.

Whether you’re after a long lunch or an afternoon glass of wine with your toes in the sand, Onetangi’s beachfront dining is some of the best on the island.

Vineyard Ventures

Wine lovers will be in their element with a variety of vineyards just minutes from the beach:

• Stonyridge Vineyard: A renowned pioneer of Waiheke wine, specialising in Bordeaux-style reds. The vineyard's lush setting and Mediterranean-inspired menu make it a sought-after destination for wine and food lovers alike.

• Tantalus Estate: Combining a refined cellar door experience with craft beer from Alibi Brewing Co., a restaurant, and native bush surroundings, Tantalus offers a full day of indulgence in a beautifully designed space.

• Te Motu: This family-owned vineyard focuses on age-worthy reds and offers an exceptional dining experience at The Shed, where seasonal produce is served in a relaxed, rustic atmosphere.

• Casita Miro: A vibrant spot known for Spanish-style cuisine, tile art installations, and a terraced lawn setting, Casita Miro provides a colourful, flavourful experience.

• Obsidian Wines: Tucked into a quiet valley, Obsidian is celebrated for its balanced reds and elegant whites. The vineyard offers tastings in a peaceful outdoor garden.

• SOHO Family Vineyards: Known for its bold branding and expressive wines, SOHO provides guided tastings and relaxed vibes close to the Onetangi strip.

• Postage Stamp Wines: A boutique label that partners with small Waiheke growers, Postage Stamp showcases limited-release wines from different corners of the island.

• The Heke: Home to Waiheke Whisky and a brewery, The Heke is a relaxed, family-friendly venue that pairs local spirits and brews with a broad food menu and sprawling lawn.

These vineyards offer not just wine but dining, art, events, and stunning rural views. Many are connected by bike-friendly routes, and some offer vineyard-to-vineyard walking trails.

Adventure & Activities

Looking to raise your heart rate? Book in with EcoZip Adventures, where you can soar over native bush on three giant ziplines before enjoying a guided nature walk back to base. The experience is family-friendly and combines thrill with environmental education.

Back at sea level, you can rent boogie boards, beach cabanas, and more from Waiheke Beach Rentals, located right off the beach. They also provide E-Ride electric bikes, making it easy to explore surrounding vineyards and scenic viewpoints without a car.

Cultural Insight

Just up the hill, the Museum of Waiheke offers a deep dive into the island’s past, including exhibitions on early settler life, farming, and the local maritime history. The site features relocated historical buildings, including a schoolhouse and jail, providing an immersive step back in time.

Stay by the Sea

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation:

• Onetangi Beach Apartments: Offering studios to two-bedroom options, many with sea views and kitchenettes.

• Onetangi Beachfront Apartments: A boutique complex of six well-appointed units right on the sand—perfect for couples, families, or a group escape.

With cafes, rentals, and the beach on your doorstep, staying in Onetangi means you can slip into island life the moment you arrive.

Local Tip

Oneroa is perfect for art, shopping, and casual dining. Onetangi, meanwhile, is for barefoot mornings, long wine-filled lunches, and evenings watching the sun dip below the hills. For the ultimate Waiheke experience, spend a few days in each.

Whether you're seeking beach time, fine wine, culture, or outdoor fun, Onetangi offers a complete Waiheke Island experience that's hard to beat.