Waiheke Island Double Headland Walk: Guided Coastal Hike & Lunch

Summary

Guided Waiheke Coastal Walk with Local Lunch Stop

If you want to see Waiheke beyond the wineries, this walk hits all the best bits—coastal tracks, native bush, local food stops, and stories from someone who actually lives here. It’s relaxed but still feels like an adventure.

What’s the experience like?

The air on Waiheke always smells a bit salty when you step off the ferry—kind of wakes you up. Our guide, Mike, met us right at the terminal with a grin and a quick rundown of the day. We set out along the Matiatia headland first (though he said sometimes they swap routes if the tide’s high). The track winds above Owhanake Bay, and you get these wide-open views across to Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel Peninsula. I remember hearing tūī birds calling from somewhere in the manuka trees, and we even spotted a couple of kayakers down below. Mike pointed out some native plants I’d never noticed before—apparently, kawakawa leaves are good for insect bites.

Around midday, we rolled into Oneroa Village. There’s this bakery on the main strip that does these massive cheese scones—couldn’t resist grabbing one for our beach picnic. Some folks ducked into a café instead; totally your call. After lunch, we headed south through Pio Rehutai Reserve. The path here dips into bush and then pops out by Church Bay, where you can see back towards Auckland city if it’s clear (it was a bit hazy for us). We wandered past some wild-looking sculpture pieces tucked into the greenery and caught glimpses of fancy houses hidden behind pōhutukawa trees. The whole walk took about five hours but didn’t feel like it—guess that’s what happens when you’re distracted by sea breezes and good company.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waiheke Island Coastal Walk

• Guided walk around Matiatia and Church Bay headlands

Top questions

How hard is the walk? Is it suitable for beginners?

The walk covers hilly terrain for about five hours but goes at an easy pace with plenty of stops. Most people with moderate fitness are fine.

What should I bring?

Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Also bring water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a raincoat just in case—the weather can change quickly.

Is lunch included?

You’ll have time to buy lunch in Oneroa Village or bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach. There are several cafés and bakeries nearby.

Do you cancel if it rains?

Nope! The walks run in all weather conditions—just dress appropriately for whatever’s happening outside.

What’s included

Your day includes expert guiding from a local, return transfers to the ferry or your accommodation on Waiheke, walking maps to keep you on track, plus time for lunch in Oneroa Village (lunch cost not included). And of course—a proper scenic adventure around both headlands!