The ultimate guide to Auckland's islands

When people think of Auckland, they often picture its bustling city life. But with its prime coastal position, it also offers peaceful islands to explore just a short distance from the city.

Auckland is surrounded by over 50 islands within the Hauraki Gulf, many that are accessible to visitors and each with something different to offer.

Imagine starting your day with a beachside sunrise, touring boutique vineyards, kayaking around hidden bays then climbing volcanic landscapes. It's all possible in Auckland!

Whether you’re spending a few nights staying on an island or day tripping from your Auckland city base, here are some ideas for Auckland island escapes.

Rangitoto Island

An iconic sight in Auckland’s harbour, Rangitoto Island is accessible by boat and offers visitors a chance to explore unique volcanic landscape, lava caves and the country’s largest pōhutukawa forest. Today, Rangitoto sits quietly dormant, but its history is etched into the land.

A hike to the top is rewarded with breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf, with plenty of birdsong accompanying your 3km return walk. The track is well-marked, but it pays to take sturdy footwear to navigate the rough volcanic terrain. 

You can reach Rangitoto Island with a 25-minutes ferry ride from Auckland with Fullers360, with regular trips throughout the day. For something a little more adventurous, Auckland Sea Kayaks offers sea kayaking tours where you paddle your way from the mainland to Rangitoto Island. You can explore its rugged coastline up close, before reaching land and enjoying your climb to the top.

The sunset tour is particularly popular; after a catered barbecue you’ll paddle back at dusk towards the twinkling lights of the city.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island could be described as an oasis in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. This picturesque island offers a blend of pristine beaches, beautiful vineyards on rolling hills, and a laid-back, artsy vibe that makes it an appealing destination for visitors seeking an island experience.

There are plenty of accommodation options on the island so you can enjoy a few days exploring, from beachfront holiday homes to indulgent vineyard retreats. With its lush landscapes, award-winning wineries and artisanal foods, Waiheke promises the best of both luxury and relaxation.

Waiheke’s internationally-acclaimed wineries are a big drawcard for many visitors, and wine enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice. Waiheke Wine Tours and Ananda Tours are highly recommended for personalised tours that showcase the island’s boutique wineries and great food.

But Waiheke isn’t just about sipping Sauvignon Blanc—there are plenty of cultural and outdoor activities to enjoy. To get off the beaten track, book a private, tailored tour through Terra and Tide, where knowledgeable guides can show you lesser-known spots, local art galleries, and pristine beaches.

Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland’s waterfront, Waiheke Island is easily accessible yet feels a world away. Fullers360 offers frequent ferry services, with a scenic journey across the Waitematā Harbour.

For those looking to start or finish their visit in style, Heletranz Helicopters offers direct flights to Waiheke, giving visitors an unforgettable aerial view of the cityscape and the island’s sprawling vineyards below. They’ve also teamed up with a number of local Waiheke attractions to offer exciting day trips and packages. Add on an EcoZip Adventure, chopper in to lunch at a vineyard or try your hand at archery and clay bird shooting among the vines. 

Tiritiri Matangi Island

This wildlife sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s haven, home to some of New Zealand’s most endangered bird species. Protected from predators, native birds like tūī, kōkako, takahē, ruru (morepork), toutouwai - the North Island Robin - and even kiwi have been given the chance to thrive here.

Although not a common sight in the daytime, a small population of tuatara also call the island home. Explore walking trails through lush native forest, visit the oldest working lighthouse in New Zealand and swim in the island’s bays. 

Tiritiri Matangi Island is accessible via an Explore Group ferry, departing from both the Viaduct Harbour and Gulf Harbour. Explore Group also offers cruising and sailing experiences, including their Tikapa Moana Whales, Dolphins and Islands Cruise, which explores the gulf, its islands and its aquatic inhabitants.

Aotea Great Barrier Island

For those who crave isolation and natural beauty, Aotea Great Barrier Island is the place for you. Untamed landscapes, stunning beaches and starlit skies await in this off-grid paradise. It’s recommended you allow for at least a four-day stay so you can experience all the island has to offer.

SeaLink Travel Company offers ferry services for both passengers and vehicles to Great Barrier, where you can hike through native forests, soak in natural hot springs or simply relax on unspoiled beaches. Remember to pack your own reusable coffee cups and water bottles, as this eco-conscious island has done away with single-use items (great, right?!). There are coastal cruises, fishing and diving charters, kayaking and snorkelling opportunities.

With limited light pollution, it’s also one of the best spots for stargazing in Auckland. To cut down on travel time, it’s also possible to reach the island by air, giving you a chance to take in the island’s scenery from above. Island Aviation departs daily from North Shore Airport for a 30-minute flight.

Rotoroa Island

Once a rehabilitation retreat, Rotoroa Island is now an island focused on conservation. Home to native and endangered wildlife across the island’s 80 hectares, visitors can explore walking trails, enjoy pristine beaches, learn about the island’s fascinating past at the Rotoroa Island Exhibition Centre and Museum, and explore heritage buildings.

You’ll easily fill a day with exploring, so you may wish to stay overnight at one of the island’s holiday homes. Getting to Rotoroa Island is easy, with daily return Explore Group ferry services departing from downtown Auckland.

Kawau Island

Kawau Island is one of the largest islands within the Hauraki Gulf and a popular destination for visitors. A key attraction is Mansion House, the former residence of Governor George Grey, surrounded by lush gardens and home to the island’s two resident peacocks. There is, of course, a lot more birdlife to discover along the coast and within the island’s beautiful native bush.

Follow scenic tracks, visit secluded beaches and enjoy a coffee at the Kawau Boating Club or Mansion House Cafe (open over the summer season). To reach Kawau Island, take a quick 20-minute ferry from Sandspit, near Warkworth.

A room with a view

While there are opportunities to overnight on Auckland’s islands, you may choose to have somewhere central as your base for day tripping, especially if you’re wanting to explore more than one island during your escape to Auckland. Many of Auckland’s hotels are positioned to showcase the harbour, so you can take in island views from your balcony.

Here are our top central Auckland hotel picks offering harbour and island views:

1. Hilton Auckland is situated right on the waterfront, 300 metres out to sea on Princes Wharf and offers uninterrupted views of the Waitematā Harbour. Enjoy a glass of wine from your balcony while watching ferries whisk passengers away to Waiheke or Rangitoto.

2. Just a short stroll from the waterfront, The Hotel Britomart is a five-star hotel that gives guests easy access to the city’s buzzing harbour, dining precincts and shopping boutiques. Many of the hotel’s rooms feature stunning views of Auckland’s harbour, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Waitematā even after you’re back on the mainland.

3. Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is an elegant waterfront hotel, located in one of Auckland’s most coveted spots - the Viaduct Harbour. Surrounded by superyachts and overlooking serene harbour waters, this hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the city. Best of all, its close proximity to ferry services makes it easy to get to the terminal on time for your island adventure!

4. Choose a Harbour View room at The Grand By SkyCity which, as the name suggests, provides exquisite views across the cityscape towards the Waitematā. A stay here gives you easy access to over 20 restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as theatres and the casino. And after a day exploring the islands, your feet may enjoy a pamper at SkyCity’s in-house spa, East Day Spa.

5. SO/Auckland, a 5-star boutique hotel, offers modern rooms with sweeping views of the harbour. Sip cocktails and gaze out to the water from HI-SO rooftop bar. Its central location puts you in the heart of Auckland’s social and shopping scene, and also makes it easy to catch your ferry or helicopter for island adventures.