Spend a day learning about NZ’s rich history and heritage whilst journeying across Waiheke’s landscape.

You will be greeted by your local guide at the wharf upon your arrival. First we will head up to Matiatia headland to orientate ourselves in the Hauraki Gulf, take in the stunning sea, island and city views and learn about the arrival of Māori to Waiheke Island and the history of their occupation. You will visit pristine white sand beaches, forests and lookout spots and hear the history and stories of the places you visit and see. You will visit the focal point of the Māori community on Waiheke, learn about marae protocol, the significance and importance of carving and traditional tattooing, the revitalisation of Māori language and the impact of colonisation on Māori people.

You will also learn about the Treaty of Waitangi, NZ’s founding document, its subsequent breaches and how the Treaty now guides us as a nation in a modern context. You will hear about the societal transformation that commenced in the 1970’s in NZ resulting in the renaissance of the Māori people and NZ’s development as a uniquely bicultural nation.

Lunch is at a local café or vineyard where you will have an opportunity to mix with the locals and experience delicious food and coffee. The sub-tropical Waiheke climate has allowed for award-winning wine and olive oil industries to be established on the island. You will be able to taste both as an option when visiting a local vineyard.

During a gentle guided walk through native bush, your guide will explain the traditional and medicinal Māori uses of native plants and take you to a historical pa site with archaeological remains of kumara pits, shell middens and defensive terraces. You will also likely see our native birds tui, kereru and piwakawaka.

This tour takes in all that Waiheke has to offer while also getting you off the beaten tourist trail. Your guide will drop you back to the wharf in time for the return 4pm ferry. Or, if you wish to stay on the island longer you can be dropped in Oneroa, the main village, and make your own way back to the ferry by either a 15-minute walk or short bus ride.

Food, Wine and Culture

Waiheke Island, Hastings, Nelson, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Queenstown