Flight
There are multiple daily direct flights to Auckland (AKL) (~12.5 hour flight). SFO to AKL: United, Air New Zealand LAX to AKL: American Airlines, Delta, Air New Zealand Vancouver (YVR) to AKL: Air New Zealand, Air Canada JFK to AKL: Air New Zealand, Qantas *Airports outside these hubs can connect through SFO, LAX, YVR, or HNL Auckland is three hours behind Pacific Standard Time (PST -3 hours), but because it’s across the International Date Line, it’s the next day there. Due to the International Date Line, you lose a day traveling there but gain a day back on the return. Upon arrival in Auckland, it’s a short ferry ride to Waiheke Island. You do not need a rental car to get to Waiheke Island, however, you can rent on at AKL Airport or on the island itself.
Travel Note
Fullers Passenger Ferry Departs from Auckland or Devonport and arrives at Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Waiheke island The Fullers passenger ferry is a popular way to travel to Waiheke island. It departs from Auckland ferry terminal or Devonport ferry terminal. It takes 35-45 minutes from Auckland depending on whether it stops at Devonport first. The sailing can also take longer during busy periods or rough weather. There is a bar and cafe onboard where you can buy snacks like cookies and chips, toasted sandwiches, pies and a range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.
Travel Note
SeaLink operates a drive-on, drive-off car ferry. You can also walk on this ferry without a vehicle. It is an excellent alternative way to get to Waiheke Island, and handy if you want to take a car or larger items with you. The SeaLink ferry is located at Half Moon Bay in East Auckland, and Hamer Street which is located next to Wynyard Quarter in Auckland’s CBD. It takes 45-60 minutes depending on the weather and the vessel you are on. There is a lounge on board which includes a licensed cafe and bar, Sky TV, power outlets and complimentary WiFi. Toilets are also located on deck. Once you arrive at the terminal, you can either wait in your car and someone will scan your barcode from your email confirmation, or you can check in at the reception area.