What to do on Waiheke Island during Easter Holidays

Start your day at Arcadia Waiheke, just a minute’s walk from Palm Beach, Arcadia offers a serene setting for starting your day. The restaurant provides a laid-back and friendly service style, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal in a cozy environment. Arcadia’s breakfast menu is served from 9am to 11:45am and features a variety of options. They focus on using fresh, quality produce to create delicious meals that are both simple and satisfying.

For a French twist, head to Café Bisou, a charming affair that transports you straight to the heart of France. Indulge in traditional Brittany recipes with their signature galettes, or for those with a sweet tooth, the made-to-order crepes offer a delightful start to the day. Choose from classic lemon & sugar to decadent chocolate or banana & maple syrup.

For a taste of Italy, visit Fenice Restaurant in Oneroa Village. Fenice’s entrance is adorned with flowers, and the interior features a cozy fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Expect to find a variety of options, from homemade granola with seeds and dried fruit to classic bacon and eggs on ciabatta. For those who prefer something lighter, there are options like croissants with butter and jam or honey.

Visit Eclectic Boutique, where sustainability meets style. Located at the heart of the island, this boutique stands out with its vibrant selection of clothing, accessories, and giftware. With a focus on sustainability, quality fabrics, and good design, Eclectic Boutique offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

Surfers and streetwear enthusiasts will find their haven at Out There Surf, this iconic shop in the heart of Ostend offers a wide range of surf, skate, and sports equipment, along with a large selection of fashion and beach clothing from the world’s leading brands.

Immerse yourself in the island’s musical culture at The Waiheke Homes Waiheke Jazz Festival. Showcasing a stellar lineup of local and international jazz artists. The 2024 festival promises an eclectic mix of performances, including iconic New Zealand acts like Greg Johnson and Nairobi Trio, alongside dynamic bands such as White Chapel Jak and Crash Bandihoot. With a range of venues across the island, the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere where music lovers can enjoy everything from spontaneous improvisation to skillfully crafted original compositions. It’s a perfect blend of artistry and island charm, set against the backdrop of Waiheke’s stunning natural beauty

Explore the island’s renowned vineyards with Waiheke Wine Tours for a scenic and amazing day. With a variety of tour options, including daily, private, and corporate tours, guests can indulge in premium wine tastings at award-winning vineyards. The tours are led by passionate local guides who share their extensive knowledge and island stories, making each experience both educational and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a day tripper seeking a half or full day wine tour, The Wine Tasting Company has you covered. Explore one of the world’s top wine regions, complete with unparalleled views, award-winning wines, and mouth-watering cuisine. Their personalized, tailored itineraries and shared group tours cater to every traveler’s preferences.

Located in the perfect spot at Palm Beach, the team at Watsup Waiheke offer a full range of water sport gear, available for hire, including SUPs, kayaks, surfboards, bodyboards, and snorkeling equipment. They also offer a giant 17ft long SUP that can accommodate up to 8 adults!

Or maybe you fancy flying high in the sky with Waiheke Wings, experiencing panoramic views of the island’s coastline, vineyards, and pristine beaches.

With many amazing walking trails on the island, Terra and Tide offer guided walks and outdoor adventures on Waiheke Island. Their walks are designed for those who want to connect with nature, experience healing through outdoor exploration, and learn more about the environment.

Located amidst the island’s natural beauty, Wild on Waiheke offers activities such as archery, clay bird shooting, and laser clay bird shooting. If you’re seeking outdoor thrills and a touch of adventure, Wild on Waiheke is the place to be!

Exploring the historic side of Waiheke Island is a must-do when you visit. Stony Batter Tunnels dates back to World War II and features a network of tunnels and gun emplacements. Visitors can explore this fascinating piece of history while enjoying stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf. It’s a must-visit destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Head to the best views on the island at Batch Winery. With its boutique wines and sharing-style dinners, complemented by panoramic views that are as exquisite as the dishes emerging from their Josper charcoal oven.

Vino Vino offers a delightful fusion of Argentinian and New Zealand cuisines, where the steak and seafood are as highly praised as the scenic vistas from the restaurant. Under the expert guidance of award-winning Argentine-Kiwi chef Connie Aldao, guests are treated to a menu that features the best of steakhouse and seafood cuisine, complemented by a fine selection of regional wines and signature cocktails.

If you're feeling like a casual yet vibrant atmosphere then head to The Heke for a hearty meal after a day of exploration. Surrounded by four acres of lush gardens, it’s a place where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while savoring locally brewed beer and award-winning whisky. The restaurant’s chefs are known for preparing delicious meals over wood fires, adding a rustic charm to the dining experience.

Easter on Waiheke Island is a time of vibrant festivities and a plethora of activities that cater to all tastes. The island comes alive with a festive atmosphere, offering a mix of cultural events, live music, and local art displays. Visitors and locals can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the island, enjoy the local culinary delights, or partake in the various outdoor experiences.

What an ideal destination for an Easter getaway!