HOW TO TRAVEL TO WAIHEKE ISLAND

Getting to Waiheke Island

Your Waiheke adventure begins with a scenic ferry journey across Auckland’s beautiful Hauraki Gulf!

Waiheke Wine Tours is based on Waiheke Island, approximately 35–45 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland. Two ferry operators connect Auckland with Matiatia Ferry Terminal, where your unforgettable island experience begins.

Island Direct — Pre-Booked Ferry Service

Adult return: NZ$64 | One-way: NZ$32

A great choice for a comfortable, pre-booked journey to Waiheke Island.

Island Direct offers a convenient ferry service with advance online bookings, helping you plan your journey around your scheduled wine tour.

• Departure: Pier 13, Downtown Ferry Terminal, Auckland.
• Arrival: Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Waiheke Island.
• Journey time: Approximately 35–40 minutes.
• Bookings: Reserve your preferred sailing online in advance.
• Additional benefits: No booking fees and onboard refreshments available for purchase.

View Island Direct Timetables & Book Tickets

Fullers360 — Standard, Priority & Reserve Ferry Services

Fullers360 operates frequent ferry services between downtown Auckland and Matiatia Wharf, with several ticket options to suit your travel plans.

• Departure: Piers 11–12, Downtown Ferry Terminal, Auckland, for regular Waiheke services.
• Arrival: Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Waiheke Island.
• Journey time: Approximately 40–50 minutes, depending on the sailing.

Standard Walk-Up Ferry

Adult return: NZ$65 | One-way: NZ$32.50

A flexible option for travellers who prefer not to commit to a specific departure time.

Standard Walk-Up tickets allow you to travel on the next available sailing, subject to capacity.

During weekends, public holidays and the busy summer season, we recommend arriving at least 60 minutes before departure to allow time for queues and boarding.

Priority Ferry — Skip the Standard Boarding Queue!

Adult return: NZ$75 | One-way: NZ$37.50

Want a smoother journey with less waiting? Fullers360 now offers a Priority Lane, allowing you to reserve your preferred sailing and board ahead of Standard Walk-Up passengers.

With a Priority Ticket, you’ll enjoy:

• A pre-booked ferry departure.
• Access to the dedicated Priority Lane at Downtown Auckland and Matiatia.
• Priority boarding ahead of the Standard Walk-Up queue.
• First choice of available seating.

Important: Arrive 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure. The Priority Lane closes 10 minutes before sailing.

Our recommendation: If you’re joining one of our scheduled Waiheke Wine Tours, the Priority Ferry is an excellent choice for a more convenient, organised journey.

Waiheke Reserve — Premium Ferry Experience

Adult return: NZ$104 | One-way: NZ$60

Fullers360 also offers Waiheke Reserve, a dedicated ferry service with bookable departures and guaranteed seating.

View Fullers360 Timetables, Priority Tickets & Fares

Where to Meet Your Waiheke Wine Tours Guide

Upon arrival at Matiatia Ferry Terminal, your friendly Waiheke Wine Tours guide will be waiting to welcome you and begin your island adventure!

Can’t find your tour guide? No worries!

Simply make your way to the Māori bronze statue at Matiatia Ferry Terminal, our designated meeting point. Your guide will meet you there.

Please arrive at the time specified in your booking confirmation, as meeting times vary depending on your chosen tour.

Helpful Tips for Your Journey

• Book early: Ferry services can be particularly busy during summer, weekends and public holidays.
• Choose the right ticket: Island Direct and Fullers360 Priority offer pre-booked travel options, while Fullers360 Standard Walk-Up provides greater flexibility.
• Allow sufficient time: Plan to arrive on Waiheke before your scheduled tour meeting time.
• Check your booking confirmation: Your tour’s meeting time and important arrival instructions will be included.
• Ferry tickets: Ferry fares are not included in all shared wine tours.

Explore award-winning vineyards, indulge in exceptional local wines, enjoy gourmet dining and discover breathtaking coastal scenery with Waiheke Wine Tours.

We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful island!