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Island Transportation

Getting Around Waiheke Island

Waiheke is beautiful but has limited transportation options, so a little planning will go a long way!

Local Buses

Waiheke has a small but reliable public bus network operated by Auckland Transport (AT). Buses run regularly between popular areas and connect directly from Matiatia Wharf. 

This is the cheapest and one of the easiest ways to get around the island if you have not booked remote accommodation.

Main Bus Routes:

  • Route 50A / 50B: Matiatia Wharf → Oneroa Village → Surfdale → Ostend → Onetangi

  • Route 502: Matiatia Wharf → Oneroa Village → Palm Beach → Ostend → Omiha

Timetables:

  • Buses are timed to meet most ferry arrivals and departures

  • Services typically run from 5:30AM – 12:30AM on weekdays and 6:30AM – 12:30AM on weekends

Check live schedules and maps here 👇

AT Waiheke Bus Timetable

Fares & Tickets:

The most convenient way to pay is with an AT HOP card. You can buy one at the Matiatia Ferry Terminal or the Public Library in Oneroa Village.

The card itself costs $5.00 and you will need to add extra for travel credit. 

All fares are approx. $2.60.

Please note: Waiheke’s buses do not accept cash.

Taxis

Taxis are available on Waiheke, but they are limited in number and can be expensive, especially during busy periods. We strongly recommend booking in advance if you know you’ll need a taxi.

Why Book Early?

  • There’s no Uber on Waiheke

  • Taxis often book out quickly, especially around ferry times

  • Wait times can be long if you don’t pre-arrange your ride

Recommended Taxi Companies:

Waicabs – The islands largest taxi company
📞 02 7924 2227
🌐 https://www.waicabs.co.nz/

Waiheke Hybrid Taxi – A private taxi driver
📞 02 2633 0209
🌐 https://www.waihekehybridtaxis.com/

Ride Waiheke Island – A luxury private taxi driver
📞 021 0881 3039
🌐 https://www.instagram.com/ride_waihekeisland/

Waiheke Shuttles – Good for small groups
📞 02 7500 1323
🌐 https://www.waihekeshuttles.co.nz/

Rental Cars

Rental cars are available on Waiheke, but we do not recommend this option unless absolutely necessary.

Why Not?

  • Limited supply: Rentals can sell out far in advance

  • Expensive petrol: Fuel prices on the island are significantly higher than the mainland

  • Parking is limited in popular areas like Oneroa and Onetangi

If you still wish to rent a car, these are two reliable companies: 

Waiheke Car Rentals 
🌐 https://waihekecarrental.co.nz/

Go Rentals 
🌐 https://www.gorentals.co.nz/

If you have any questions about how to get around, or want help booking transport, just let us know—we’re happy to help make the planning stress-free!