Rocky Bay Reminiscences

Omiha Memorial Hall, Rocky Bay

The old Waiheke is alive and well in Rocky Bay. Untainted by progress, development or the 'latte' set, this is where it all happens. Join the locals and hear the real Waiheke story. Tea and cakes may well be available at the start or finish of this walk in the iconic Rocky Bay (Omiha) Hall. Thursday 3 November, start time 1.30pm at the bus stop Rocky Bay. If you are coming from Auckland catch … [Read more...]

Te Whau Coast to Coast

Te Whau has two great assets - a world-class restaurant and unspoilt coastal walkway. Join Janine James on this two hour walk, you will love the seclusion and maybe hate the hills! Book direct with Te Whau Restaurant if you want a long lunch 09 372 7191 or bring your sammies if you are linking this walk to 'Rocky Bay Reminiscences' in the afternoon. Thursday 3 November, start time 10.30am at the … [Read more...]

Snap and Stride, Photography Walk

Explore Oneroa through the eye of your camera lens. Local photographer and walking guide, Janine James (aka Dora the Explorer), will show you some of her favourite photo opportunities - mainly 'close-ups'. If you have a new camera and don't know what to do with it, fear not. Jaine will give a quick lesson, a basic overview of each type of camera, and then you will go awandering with her. Feel … [Read more...]

Walk to the Top of the World

SORRY THIS WALK IS FULLY BOOKED. Last year saw a sneak preview of this stunning piece of land. Now it is ours (yours and mine!). Join the official opening of our newest walkway reserve. With kind consent of the adjoining private landowner you may even get the chance to stand on Waiheke's highest point. Sunday 6 November 1.30pm. Take the noon ferry and you will be met by a Walking Ambassador who … [Read more...]

Okahuiti Wetland Walkway

SORRY THIS WALK IS FULLY BOOKED. Be first to see this neat wetland walkway tucked away right under your nose in the busy heart of the island. Wetland expert, Tony King-Turner talks you through nature, the water and wildlife you would never know was there. If travel permits, birdlife expert and author, Janet Hunt, will accompany Tony on this walk. Saturday 5 November, 12.15pm. Catch the 11am … [Read more...]

Te Matuku to Awaawaroa

SORRY THIS WALK IS FULLY BOOKED. Down the eastern end of the island is a new bush track opening up the Te Matuku peninsula to walkers for the first time. Big trees, big views and a big hill at the end. And if you like, there's wine tasting before and after. Bliss. Saturday 5 November, 11.30am. Take the 9am ferry from town and meet the special bus. The guided walk is free but the return bus … [Read more...]

Journey to the Lost Centre

Deep in the eastern end lies undeveloped reserve, definitely one for the battle-hardened bush-whacker! Slog up a swampy valley so long you'll think we are lost. Finally emerge into a farm block so big you can't see the road. Hard work, but you'll be able to say you were there first... Tuesday 1 November, 2pm Waiheke residents meet at Onetangi Hall 1.20pm to 'car share' and follow the Special bus … [Read more...]

Cross-island Walk

Our 'coast-to-coast' is a 2.5 hour walk that runs from the graceful sweep of Half Moon Bay at Whakanewha, over the bush-clad hills to the endless rolling waves at Onetangi Beach. Experienced guide and former park ranger, Andy Spence, is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to native flora, fauna and weeds! You will need to be prepared for some short steep descents so wear your good walking shoes … [Read more...]

Making Tracks in Onetangi Reserve

Less than one km from Onetangi Beach is the best bush in the busy end of the island. Brand new walkways have opened up previously unseen areas, revealed hidden gems and made exploring this reserve a whole lot easier. If you did this walk last year you will notice a real difference. Forest & Bird Ranger, Brian Griffiths, is your guide and he will be accompanied by Gary Wilton. Between them … [Read more...]

Bunkers, submarines and stealing the beach – an Owhanake history lesson

Hidden above Matiatia is a concrete bunker, part of Auckland's defence against naval invasion. Enjoy a stunning harbour view and find out how part of Waiheke became Grafton Bridge. This history walk will be led by Janine James and guest guide Paul Monin. Monday 31 October, 9.45am at Matiatia Terminal. If you are coming from Auckland catch the 9am ferry. This walk takes about two hours and will … [Read more...]