WAIHEKE WONDERS
A scenic 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, the low-key island of Waiheke punches well above its weight. Thanks to a fertile landscape studded with vineyards and wineries, local restaurants that offer a mouthwatering array of island-grown produce, and an abundance of galleries and craft stores, this jewel in the Hauraki Gulf is a popular escape in the summer months. Culture vultures have another reason to go now: for three weeks from January 27, Headland Sculpture on the Gulf will bring modern art to a two-and-a-half-kilometer stretch of the western coastline, showcasing the newest works from some of New Zealand’s most established artists alongside a pool of emerging talent. It’s a combination of nature, art, food, and wine that should satisfy even the most discerning appetite.
Where to Stay
For a luxe Kiwi “bach” (holiday cottage) experience, The Boatshed ( boatshed .co.nz; doubles from US$680) has five nautically themed suites and two bungalows above Little Oneroa Beach.
What Else?
Winetasting is a must on Waiheke, so join an Afternoon Artisan Tour ( ananda.co.nz; US$132 per person) that calls in at three of the island’s boutique vineyards and a microbrewery, with a platter lunch included.
Where to Eat
Locally farmed Te Makutu oysters are on the menu at Mudbrick ( mudbrick.co.nz), where diners also enjoy uninterrupted views all the way back to Auckland. Hidden amid the vineyards of Onerangi Valley, Te Motu – The Shed ( temotu.co.nz) serves up innovative rural fare such as Moko smoked eel with ryecaraway noodles.