Getting Around Waiheke Island

Whether you’re here for a day trip, a weekend escape, or a longer island retreat, getting around Waiheke is part of the adventure. From coastal roads and rolling hills to hidden coves and charming villages, the journey between stops is just as rewarding as the destinations themselves.

Luckily, Waiheke offers a wide range of transport options to suit every style, budget, and group size — from eco-conscious e-bike hire to wine tour shuttles, public buses, and private cars. Here's your full guide to navigating the island smoothly.

Public Bus Service: Easy, Affordable & Now Accepting Credit Cards

Waiheke’s public bus network is operated by Auckland Transport (AT) and is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to explore the island.

Why choose the bus?

• Routes connect key destinations like Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Oneroa Village, Ostend Market, Palm Beach, Onetangi, and Rocky Bay.

• Buses run approximately every 15–30 minutes during the day and align with ferry arrivals and departures.

• It’s a great option for day trippers or visitors without a rental car.

• You can now tap your credit or debit card directly on the bus — no need for an AT HOP card!

Quick Tips:

• Simply tap your Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, or Google Pay when boarding — no paper tickets or cards needed.

• Children under 5 ride free.

• Download the AT Mobile App to see real-time bus locations and plan your route.

• Most buses are modern and air-conditioned, with friendly drivers who know the island well.

Popular Routes:

• Route 50A/50B: Matiatia Wharf → Oneroa → Ostend → Onetangi Beach

• Route 502: Rocky Bay → Palm Beach → Oneroa

• Route 503: Onetangi Loop including Waiheke High School and more rural stops

Bus passes are no longer required — just tap and ride. For longer stays or multiple stops, this is an ideal way to travel affordably and sustainably.

Car & Van Rentals: The Freedom to Roam

If you want the flexibility to stop at scenic lookouts, visit multiple vineyards in one day, or explore the far reaches of the island like Man O’ War Bay, renting a vehicle is a great choice.

Available Rental Options:

• Compact cars – Ideal for couples or solo travellers

• SUVs & 4WDs – Great for rugged areas and gravel roads

• Vans & MPVs – Perfect for families and groups

• Luxury rentals – For those seeking style and comfort

• Scooters – Fun and easy for short-distance exploring

Local Rental Companies:

• Waiheke Car Rental – Pick up near Matiatia or Kennedy Point, with a wide fleet and reliable service.

• Waiheke Auto Rentals – Known for competitive pricing and a straightforward booking process.

• Waiheke Rental Cars – Offers cars for all budgets and is conveniently located for ferry travellers.

Driving Tips:

• Waiheke roads are sealed but narrow and often winding.

• Keep to the left-hand side, and always drive cautiously.

• Parking is free in most areas, but Oneroa and busy beaches may require a short walk from your car.

• No petrol stations near Matiatia — top up in Ostend.

E-Bike Hire: Eco-Friendly & Scenic

Waiheke’s hilly terrain makes traditional cycling a challenge — but with an e-bike, it’s a breeze. Electric bikes allow you to cruise between beaches, vineyards, and lookout points with minimal effort, making it a popular option for active travellers.

Why Choose an E-Bike?

• Enjoy sweat-free hills with pedal assist

• Great for accessing scenic backroads and coastal tracks

• Stop wherever you like — no parking stress

• A sustainable and fun way to explore

Where to Hire:

• eRide Waiheke – Offers high-quality electric bikes for full or half-day hire, with helmet, lock, maps, and local advice included.
  They also offer private guided e-bike tours, ideal for groups, team-building events, or those who want a deeper island experience.

You can ride from Matiatia Wharf to Onetangi Beach, stopping at vineyards, olive groves, and art galleries along the way.

Tip: Always check if your accommodation has bike storage or charging facilities if you're hiring overnight.

Taxis & On-Demand Transport

If you're looking for a simple way to get from A to B — especially at night or after a long lunch — taxis are available island-wide. They’re particularly useful for short trips between vineyards or from your accommodation to a restaurant.

Local Providers:

• Waiheke Taxis – Operating 7 days a week with a fleet of vans and cars. Pre-booking recommended, especially on weekends.

• Easy Transport Waiheke – Friendly and reliable private service with group transport options.

• Smart Taxis Waiheke – Responsive service, often available for last-minute pickups.

Note: Waiheke does not currently have rideshare services like Uber or Ola. All taxis are local providers, and it’s best to book ahead during busy seasons.

Private Shuttles & Group Charters

Travelling as a group? Hosting a wedding, event, or team getaway? Booking a private shuttle is often more convenient (and cost-effective) than coordinating multiple taxis or relying on public buses.

Group-Friendly Options:

• Heke Bus – Hourly private charters, ideal for winery days, weddings, or events.

• Waiheke Shuttles – Air-conditioned group buses with flexible itineraries and competitive rates.

• Waiheke Transport – The island’s largest fleet, with options for 6 to 50 passengers. Great for conferences and large groups.

Many tour operators can customise routes that include wine tastings, beach stops, scenic lookouts, or even art galleries — all in one day.

Walking: For the Slow Travel Enthusiast

If you’re based in Oneroa or arriving for a short day trip, you’ll find a surprising amount of shops, beaches, and viewpoints accessible by foot.

Great Walkable Areas:

• Oneroa Village – From the ferry, a scenic 15–20 minute walk brings you to the heart of shops, galleries, cafés, and art trails.

• Art Walk Loop – Download the Waiheke Art Map and explore a series of galleries, sculpture installations, and open studios on foot.

• Beach Walks – Little Oneroa to Oneroa Beach, or Palm Beach to Little Palm Beach, are peaceful and beautiful short hikes.

Walking is perfect if you plan to stay in one area for lunch, a swim, and a gallery visit — or if you’re arriving car-free and want to keep it simple.

Water Transport & Boat Transfers

While not part of getting around Waiheke, it’s worth noting how many options there are for getting to Waiheke — and for exploring by water once you’re here.

• Fullers360 Ferries – Regular passenger ferries from downtown Auckland (Matiatia terminal) and from Half Moon Bay to Kennedy Point.

• Island Direct – A newer fast ferry service with additional sailings and group transport options.

• SeaLink – The only vehicle ferry to Waiheke (arrives at Kennedy Point).

• Water Taxis – Private water transport available for special events or custom pickups from Auckland and nearby islands.

• Boat Charters – Want to arrive in style? Book a charter with Foxy Lady or Aqua Charter for a scenic entrance.

If you're planning a dinner on the island or visiting for a half-day event, ferries and water taxis can often be timed around your schedule — especially if you're a group.

Which Option is Best for You?

Final Tips for Getting Around

• Tap & Ride: No AT HOP card? No problem. Just tap your credit/debit card or mobile wallet on the bus.

• Book ahead in summer: Rental cars, bikes, and taxis are in high demand from December to March.

• Be patient: Waiheke is laid-back by nature — allow extra time for pickups and transport, especially around events.

• Ask locals: Need help choosing a route or the fastest way to your destination? Waiheke locals are famously friendly and happy to point you in the right direction.

Need help planning your visit?
Check out our Hires & Charters page for detailed listings or reach out to our team — we’re happy to help you map your day.