šāØĀ Ho ho hoā¦ the countdown to the 2026 Walking Festival has officially begun!
Weāre bursting with festive excitement over here ā think jingling backpacks, merry miles, and all the seasonal sparkle you can handle. š
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But donāt wait for Santa to remind youā¦Ā tickets are disappearing faster than mince pies on Christmas Eve!Ā šš„§
We just can’t wait!
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Thinking about doing the Te Ara Hura, and don’t know what to expect?
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The Experience ā What Your Days Will Look Like
Depending on your time commitment and fitness level, there are THREE guided options:
š 5-Day Te Ara Hura Adventure
– Walk approximately 20 km per day, about 6ā8 hours on the tracks.Ā Ā Set out from Matiatia foreshore and trace the full island loop, from rugged west coast headlands to northern beaches and tranquil southern coves.
– Each day offers something different ā from coastal panoramas and rock-hopping near Church Bay, to tranquil farm pathways and native bush sections.
– Shuttle buses support logistics where public transport doesnāt reach, making the start and end points each day practical.
š 3-Day āBest Ofā Te Ara Hura Walk
A great option if you want a shorter but still immersive experience. Expect 15ā20 km per day across breathtaking coastal reserves and through regenerating bush.
– Highlights include sandy beaches, panoramic hilltop views and, on the final day, the thrilling rope-assisted climb.
Ā š“āāļøĀ 5-Day Stride & Ride Adventure
All of the above from our 3-day ‘Best of’ adventure, with 2 days of E-bike hire from our friends at E-RIDE.Ā We’ll give you some suggested routes to undertake at your leisure on days 4 & 5.Ā This option is best suited for those who want to minimise road walking.
All formats are graded 9/10 and are challenging which are best suited to walkers with good fitness ā think hilly half-marathon-style days, but richly rewarding in return.
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Trail Highlights
Walking Te Ara Hura is more than just distance ā itās about variety:
- Coastal panoramas and headland cliffs overlooking the Hauraki Gulf.
- Native forest heartlands with lush bush, wetlands and birdlife.
- Beaches ānā baches ā picturesque seaside sections dotted with classic Kiwi beach houses.
- Peaceful countryside and rural landscapes that feel a world away from the ferry terminal.
š Practical Tips
Fitness & preparation: This is a tough walk, please be sure youāre comfortable walking long distances and varied terrain. Walking shoes with good grip, layers for changing weather, plenty of water and snacks are essential.
Booking early: This is one of our signature experiences and spaces fill quickly ā please plan and book early.
Festive community: This walk isnāt just about the miles ā itās a social, supportive group journey, sharing stories, scenery and make new friends along the way.
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Thanks to Carol for this epic Te Ara Hura video (and for being a superstar volunteer š)!
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…and while you are here, let’s talk rope climb!
The rope climb is a short but memorable rope-assisted part of the walk:
Hereās what it involves:
A steep clay bank where a fixed rope is installed to help walkers safely climb up or down the slope.
Why the rope is neededšŖ¢:
The track is very steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. The rope provides extra stability and confidence rather than being a technical climbing aid.
How challenging is it?šāāļø
Itās short and achievable for most walkers with reasonable fitness and balance. You donāt need climbing skills, but you do need:
- Good footwear with grip
- A willingness to use your hands
- Care and patience, especially in wet conditions
Is it safe?
Yes ā when taken slowly and with guidance. Our walk guides and volunteers:
- Talk you through the technique
- Manage spacing so people arenāt crowding the rope
- Offer reassurance or assistance if needed
Why people remember itš§āš¤āš§:
Itās one of the few sections that feels a bit adventurous and adds a sense of accomplishment ā often followed by laughter, cheers, and great stories at the end of the day.
In short, the rope climb isnāt extreme, but itās a fun, slightly rugged moment that captures the wild character of Te Ara Hura and reminds walkers theyāre on a true island trail adventureš.
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Ta da!Ā Announcing our NEW 2026 Funders & Sponsor Line UPš¢
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Our Festival would simply not be possible without the extraordinary support of our Funders and Sponsors ā many of whom have been with us from the very beginning. Their steadfast commitment underpins the Festival, ensures its longevity, and weaves it firmly into the fabric of Waiheke.Ā Ā It’s not too late if you’re keen to become a Sponsor. Ā Contact info@waihekewalkingfestival.com for more informationš.
We are thankful to theĀ Patrons of the Waiheke Walking Trust, whose ongoing support have helped shape and sustain the Festival year after year.
TheĀ Waiheke Local BoardĀ have been with us from the start ā not only supporting the Festival but investing long-term in track building across the island, helping create the very experiences our walkers enjoy.
OurĀ Major Sponsor, Gary Wilton, owner of Make Tracks, deserves special recognition. Gary was a founder of the Festival, and his continued involvement reflects a deep commitment to both the event and the island community.
We are grateful to our valued Supporting Partners:
- Island DirectĀ – our friendly ferry provider with rave reviews!Ā Don’t forget to book:Ā www.islanddirect.co.nz š„ļø
- Waiheke Executive TransportĀ – our over-island transport provider.Ā Always attention to detail focussed and are very welcome members of our Festival whanua.
- A very warm welcome toĀ Social Social, our NEW Sponsor and fabulous social media agency. Be sure to check them out at www.socialsocial.co.nz for your social requirements.
- A special shout-out goes to our long-time supportersĀ Go Media, with thanks to Andrea, Mike, and the team. Ā šout for our amazing billboards in Auckland advertising the Festival!
Named Walk Sponsor
TheĀ Oyster Inn, thanks to Helen and the Team who provide a culinary delight rewarding all after a good hearty coastal walk.Ā A true Festival favourite!
As you can see, many of our Sponsors have been with us for the long haul, seeing the Festival as part of the Waiheke tapestry ā something to be nurtured, celebrated, and shared. We are deeply grateful for their generosity, loyalty, and belief in what we do.
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Unsure what to get the āhas-everythingā person on your list? How about gifting a 2026 Walking Festival walk āfresh air, good company, and a memorable day out! šš£
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EcoFest is back 22 March ā 22 April 2026, celebrating community and climate action across TÄmaki Makaurau ā and theyāre calling for event hosts! Whether itās a workshop, kÅrero, tour, or planting day, your event can help inspire others to take meaningful action.
Register at ecofest.org.nz, and our friends at WRT can support you with free venue access, event listing help, and local connectionsš.
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Our Volunteers –Ā The Heart (and Glue!) of the FestivalĀ š
Every great festival has a secret ingredientāand ours is our volunteer crew. Our volunteers are the glue that holds everything together, from the first setup moment to the final smile at the gates. Your energy, kindness, and dedication are what turn a busy event into a truly special experience.
So many of you have been with us for the long haul, coming back year after year, and that means the world to us. Thank you for giving your time, your talents, and your heart. We canāt wait to see familiar faces (and welcome new ones!) very soonāthis festival wouldnāt be the same without you.
If you are interested to join the crew and learn more, please contact info@waihekewalkingfestival.org.
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Thatās all from usāoff to untangle fairy lights and eat too many biscuits. Have a brilliant Christmas and a sparkling New Year from the Waiheke Walking Trust and Festival Teamš.
See you on the islandš
The Waiheke Walking Festival Team
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Thanks to our MUCH LOVED SPONSORS!
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