There's something about Waiheke Island in summer that makes you want to stay a little longer.
Maybe it's the beaches, the vineyard lunches that turn into lazy afternoons, or simply being somewhere that feels a world away from the city.
And with summer approaching, there's plenty to look forward to. From New Year's Eve celebrations among the vines to art exhibitions and outdoor events, Waiheke has a busy few months ahead.
If you're thinking about an island escape over December and January, here are a few good reasons to start planning.
Waiheke has become a popular place to welcome the new year, and two of its best-known celebrations are returning for 2026.
Highlife NYE returns to Wild Estate Vineyard in Onetangi Valley on Thursday 31 December.
Running from 3pm until 1am, the event brings together local and international dance music acts, performers and entertainment in a vineyard setting.
It's a chance to dress up, enjoy live music and celebrate the final evening of 2026 somewhere a little different. Highlife is strictly R23.
If one celebration isn't enough, Sundance is hosting events at Te Motu Vineyard on both 31 December 2026 and 1 January 2027.
The programme includes house and electronic music, with international and New Zealand artists performing across the two days.
You can choose to attend New Year's Eve, New Year's Day or both.
With music, food, drinks and an open-air vineyard setting, it's another way to enjoy the island's summer celebrations.
From 4 December until 7 February 2027, the Waiheke Art Gallery is hosting Best in Show, a unique contemporary painting exhibition put together by guest curator Julia Holden. Shifting away from standard elitist galleries, this lively display features creative portraits split across four distinct animal groups: dogs, cats, domestic pets, and local pets.
Merging lighthearted comedy with critical reflections on wildlife protection and ecology, it is a brilliant interactive experience worth checking out during your summer travels.
A day trip to Waiheke is always enjoyable, but staying overnight gives you the freedom to explore.
Delamore Lodge, overlooking Owhanake Bay near Oneroa, offers a peaceful and luxurious place to enjoy the island.
Spend your days exploring beaches, vineyards and galleries, then return to the lodge to relax and enjoy the views across the Hauraki Gulf.
The lodge offers dining, spa experiences and an infinity pool, with complimentary transfers from Matiatia Ferry Terminal included with accommodation bookings.
Whether you're planning a special occasion, a New Year's escape or simply a few days away together, Waiheke is a wonderful place to spend part of the summer.
