Waiheke Ferry Terminal

"The beauty of the Island is that cars are king. The Island is an extension of Auckland with even more cars shops, souvenirs shops and pubs. You feel like being back to last century with large trucks and cars - you do not need there - that won’t smile when they see a bike. No local ride bikes. The low two stars evaluation also results from a marketing of the Island that believe that tourist are stupid ! Nice brochures only. No charm. Looks like the population won’t be ready to invest, transform and share their spaces as other islands and places are doing in the world these days. They may not care to be attractive. Vision and correct city planning could end up to a more a lovely, friendly and sustainable place, more inclusive island. A place where you enjoy moments of pleasure with friends family, elderly and kids. Few bikes. Hard to find a spot to park and lock your bike. Drivers behavior is old fashioned. Would be scary to bike with kids. Beach access made for cars. Most accesses are private ones. Rare bike connectors between beaches and have to hike uphills strong. No even see locals on bikes, as you have started to see in Auckland. Not even a pedestrian places and street where you can quietly walk, visit and shop around. Can hardly move from place of interest to another without a car. They promote the Explorer bus to a high price with low frequencies. They would not advertise that there are Auckland Transport buses and you can use the hop card. Frequencies are generally 30 mn, better than Explorer. Visit the museum. Small but great thinks to see, mostly old things imported by pakeha. Maori stand deserves much more (~ ⅓ of the history of the island). But would not expect more in an island that do not look inclusive when you observe. Peaks and line with power distribution masts and lines that could be buried, spoils landscapes and photos. Do not even look at their map and take roads they recommand, they prioritize shops and other place you can spend your money shop and spend your money. Best places are far east but you have to endure the first part describe above before. Yet you will eat cars, several of them a minutes, and will be difficult to find a quiet spot. Watch on prices: You can nearly enjoy a day in Queenstown with the same budget. Scooter/Mopped: 90 to 130 NZD e-bike: From 90 NZD Ferry: ~ 50 NZD Hop-on / Hop-off Explorer bus (does not work with Auckland Transport Hop car): ~ 60 NZ"

"Easy entry at 10:00 am but there were dreadful queues returning. Luckily they did lay on extra ferries but we did still have to queue for over an hour, watching two full ferries depart while we queued. The staff were helping and kept us informed so full marks to them."

"It was one of lovliest experience to visit at Waiheke Island, if you ever plan to visit do hire electric bike from Island and do some cycling. Cycling is one of next level of fun at island especially with family and friends."

"Small and cozy, clean and organized yet artistic with a sculpture at the entrance."

"Just few meters from the terminal (up the Oceanview road on the right) you can rent a scooter which is by far the best way to explore the island. It is great fun to ride around and you can see the whole island in one day."