Waiheke Island

This is one of our favourite places in New Zealand. Waiheke Island is only a short ferry trip from Auckland - but it is a different lifestyle altogether. It is home to artists, creative types, escapees from Auckland, wineries and olive plantations, beautiful beaches. The Island is 9324 hectares, and has a resident population of 8,730 people.
 There is a myriad of managed holiday rentals to choose from.
We stayed in Nikau Cottage in Onetangi. It was the cutest little chalet set in the bush, with lots of lovely arty touches.

Nikau Cottage - Onetangi, Waiheke Island

Nikau Cottage

Shell Mirror - Nikau Cottage, Onetangi

One of our favourite beaches is Man O War Bay - and there just happens to be  a winery there. 

There are some great characters living on Waiheke, it was where the hippies lived decades ago - and some are still there.

Waiheke locals

Oneroa is a small township, plus there are scattered stores and eateries over the Island.

Oneroa, Waiheke Island