Where?

Waiheke Island, New Zealand

Why now?

Just a 35-minute ferry ride away from the bright lights of
Auckland, Waiheke Island is home to dozens of wineries, a thriving
community of artists and stretches of unspoiled beaches. Here you
can sit down to afternoon tea or enjoy a glass of cream-coloured
chardonnay against the backdrop of New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf.
Oneroa is the island’s largest village and hosts restaurants and
cafés as well as huddles of art galleries and boutiques selling
locally made crafts. And although Waiheke’s mentality encourages a
laid-back approach to life, thrill-seekers can still get their
adrenaline fix on a zip line tour that flies high above the
vineyards.

When to go

Waiheke is blessed with its own warm and dry sub-tropical
micro-climate, so it’s the perfect break all year round.

Who to take with you

Your low-maintenance friend.

Most likely to bump into

Artists and bohemians (reminders of the island’s recent past as
a hippie commune).

Don’t miss

Boutique wineries (Batch Winery, Mudbrick Vineyard and Cable Bay
are highly recommended) and oysters from Te Matuku Bay. If you’re
looking for a more high-octane experience, try zip lining above the
vineyards. Water sports fanatics can head to one of the island’s
beautiful beaches for kite surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding,
sailing and some of the best diving in the South Pacific.

Essentials you need to bring with you

Sensible shoes, a waterproof camera and your appetite.

How to get there

Chug downriver on the 35-minute ferry from Auckland.