Waiheke Island Private Art Walk: Galleries, Studios & Lunch

Summary

Explore Waiheke’s Creative Side: Private Art Tour with Local Artists

If you’re curious about Waiheke Island beyond its beaches and wine, this private art walk is for you. Meet real artists in their studios, see what inspires them, and enjoy lunch in an artist’s home—all at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed stepping off the ferry was the salty air mixed with the smell of coffee drifting from Oneroa’s main street. Our guide, Anna, greeted us with a grin and a quick tip—“Keep your eyes open for hidden murals between shops.” She wasn’t kidding. We wandered into Waiheke Community Art Gallery just as the morning light hit the front windows, making the paintings almost glow. The gallery staff chatted about the latest exhibition—turns out, many of the artists live just down the road. There’s something special about seeing art where it was made.

Next stop was Space Gallery, tucked behind a row of olive trees. One of the collective’s sculptors, Mark, showed us how he uses driftwood from Onetangi Beach in his pieces. You could still smell the sea on some of them. We lingered longer than planned, asking questions and swapping stories about favorite beaches. It felt less like a tour and more like being welcomed into someone’s creative world.

Lunch was honestly a highlight. We drove up winding roads to Gabriella Lewenz’s home studio—her garden full of wild rosemary and bright blue hydrangeas. She served us homemade bread and local cheese while we sat surrounded by her abstract paintings. Gabriella told us about her childhood in Greece and how those colors sneak into her work here on Waiheke. It was relaxed and genuine; even her dog tried to join our group photo.

Before heading back, we stopped at Sue Engels’ shoemaking studio at the bottom of her garden. The place smelled like leather and wood polish. Sue showed us shoes she’d just finished for a local dancer—each pair totally unique. I never thought I’d leave an art tour wanting custom shoes, but here we are.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waiheke Island Art Tour

• Visit Waiheke Community Art Gallery
• Lunch at Gabriella Lewenz's home and studio
• Visit Sue Engels' shoe workshop
• Explore Space Gallery artists collective

Top questions

Is this Waiheke art tour suitable for people who don’t know much about art?

Absolutely! Our guides make everyone feel welcome, no matter your background or knowledge level. You’ll learn as you go and can ask as many questions as you like.

Can we buy artwork or crafts during the tour?

Yes, most studios and galleries offer pieces for sale. There’s no pressure to buy, but if something catches your eye, you’re welcome to take it home.

What should I bring for the day?

We suggest comfy walking shoes, a raincoat (just in case), water bottle, day pack, and some money if you’d like to purchase art or crafts along the way.

Is lunch included? Where do we eat?

Your lunch is included—it’s served at painter Gabriella Lewenz’s home studio with fresh local ingredients and great company.

What’s included

Your private art walk covers expert guiding throughout Waiheke Island’s galleries and studios, plus a relaxed lunch at an artist’s home studio. All you need is your curiosity—and maybe some extra space in your bag for new treasures!