One of the chief highlights at the venue is of course Whakanewha Regional Park which is renowned as a coastal forest with bush walks and the only camping sites in the island. Tipped to be one of the safest swimming beaches in the isle the parkland’s shallow bay is ideal for overnight camping. Home to a wide variety of indigenous birds such as the New Zealand Dotterel this venue is also frequented by bird watching enthusiasts. Stony Batter is another geological marvel on Waiheke that is littered with massive boulders and a tunnel running half a mile across three gun pits. A national heritage site of great significance the tunnel work at the venue and the inspiring views the location offers of the surrounding Gulf Islands make it a popular stopover for tourists. Gannet Rock is a gannet colony located 1km from Hooks Point in Waiheke and one that expands each year with the increasing population.
The Garden Cove is another natural wonder than warrant exploration as this naturally sheltered enclave is described as the perfect cove. Sub-tropical foliage and calm waters make the rocky reefed natural garden the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation while Te Matuku Bay offers guests fine wine, wood oven baked pizzas and a proud heritage of over 135 years. Home to the tallest mangrove forest in Auckland and a mesmerizing sand spit lagoon Te Matuku Bay is teeming with sea bird varieties including the endangered Dotterel.
Beach lovers will love Waiheke’s premier beach destination Cactus Bay which is lined with pohutakawa trees, golden sands and crystal clear waters that are ideal for snorkelling while Thumb Point is a diving and fishing Mecca like no other on the island. Visitors can head down to the Ostend Market on weekends for a bit of culture and retail therapy as this quirky local market packs in homemade cookies, handicrafts, German breads, books and music all in one bustling venue.
