108-630: Waiheke Island ( / w aɪ ˈ h ɛ k iː / ; Māori : [ˈwaihɛkɛ] ) is the second-largest island (after Great Barrier Island ) in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand . Its ferry terminal in Matiatia Bay at the western end is 21.5 km (13.4 mi) from the central-city terminal in Auckland . It is the most populated island in the gulf, with 9,140 permanent residents. Another estimated 3,400 have second homes or holiday homes on
216-452: A " genetic engineering free zone", but this is a matter of principle rather than fact, as only national government controls exist over genetically engineered foods and grains. Waiheke has a resident population of 9,140 people (June 2024) with most living close to the western end, or near the isthmus between Huruhi Bay and Oneroa Bay , which at its narrowest is only 600 metres (2,000 feet) wide. The settlements of Oneroa and Blackpool are
324-712: A $ 40 million school rebuild project for Waiheke. This was made up of two project announcements: $ 23 million to Te Huruhi School rebuild project to provide three new blocks with 22 new teaching spaces, a new administration area and library and targeted repairs to the existing school hall; and $ 17m was awarded to the Waiheke High School redevelopment project to build 10 new teaching spaces and improvement to existing facilities. Both rebuild project were started in 2019 with an expected completion date of late 2019 / early 2020. The ferry Baroona, built in Australia in 1904,
432-400: A bachelor's or higher degree, and 921 (12.1%) people had no formal qualifications. The median income was $ 32,300, compared with $ 31,800 nationally. 1,533 people (20.1%) earned over $ 70,000 compared to 17.2% nationally. The employment status of those at least 15 was that 3,618 (47.4%) people were employed full-time, 1,350 (17.7%) were part-time, and 165 (2.2%) were unemployed. Waiheke is part of
540-584: A century after the whaling industry peaked in New Zealand, and closed due to depletion of whaling stocks and increasing protection of whales by 1962. Another small-scale industry was kauri gum digging, while dairy farming and sheep farming have tended to play a small role compared to the usual New Zealand practice. A fishing industry collapsed when international fish prices dropped. Islanders are generally occupied in tourism, farming or service-related industries when not working off-island. The remote north
648-524: A century after the whaling industry peaked in New Zealand, and closed due to depletion of whaling stocks and increasing protection of whales by 1962. Another small-scale industry was kauri gum digging, while dairy farming and sheep farming have tended to play a small role compared to the usual New Zealand practice. A fishing industry collapsed when international fish prices dropped. Islanders are generally occupied in tourism, farming or service-related industries when not working off-island. The remote north
756-678: A decrease of 3 people (−0.3%) since the 2013 census , and an increase of 63 people (7.3%) since the 2006 census . There were 531 households, comprising 501 males and 429 females, giving a sex ratio of 1.17 males per female. The median age was 52.6 years (compared with 37.4 years nationally), with 138 people (14.8%) aged under 15 years, 90 (9.7%) aged 15 to 29, 477 (51.3%) aged 30 to 64, and 225 (24.2%) aged 65 or older. Ethnicities were 91.3% European/Pākehā, 20.6% Māori, 2.6% Pacific peoples, 1.3% Asian, and 1.9% other ethnicities. Percentages may add up to more than 100% as people may identify with more than one ethnicity. The percentage of people born overseas
864-678: A decrease of 3 people (−0.3%) since the 2013 census , and an increase of 63 people (7.3%) since the 2006 census . There were 531 households, comprising 501 males and 429 females, giving a sex ratio of 1.17 males per female. The median age was 52.6 years (compared with 37.4 years nationally), with 138 people (14.8%) aged under 15 years, 90 (9.7%) aged 15 to 29, 477 (51.3%) aged 30 to 64, and 225 (24.2%) aged 65 or older. Ethnicities were 91.3% European/Pākehā, 20.6% Māori, 2.6% Pacific peoples, 1.3% Asian, and 1.9% other ethnicities. Percentages may add up to more than 100% as people may identify with more than one ethnicity. The percentage of people born overseas
972-751: A festive atmosphere exists. Waiheke had a population of 9,162 in the 2023 New Zealand census , an increase of 99 people (1.1%) since the 2018 census , and an increase of 822 people (9.9%) since the 2013 census . There were 6,366 dwellings. The median age was 49.1 years (compared with 38.1 years nationally). There were 1,191 people (13.0%) aged under 15 years, 1,194 (13.0%) aged 15 to 29, 4,563 (49.8%) aged 30 to 64, and 2,217 (24.2%) aged 65 or older. Ethnicities were 88.0% European/ Pākehā , 12.3% Māori , 3.6% Pasifika , 4.6% Asian , 5.1% Middle Eastern, Latin American and African New Zealanders, and 1.0% other. People may identify with more than one ethnicity. Waiheke had
1080-550: A government proposal to remove 705 ha of land on the Te Ahumatā Plateau (called "White Cliffs" by the locals) from Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act , which gives protection from the mining of public land, was widely criticised. Concerns were that mining for the suspected $ 4.3 billion in mineral worth in the area would damage both the conservation land as well as the island's tourism economy. Locals were split on
1188-421: A government proposal to remove 705 ha of land on the Te Ahumatā Plateau (called "White Cliffs" by the locals) from Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act , which gives protection from the mining of public land, was widely criticised. Concerns were that mining for the suspected $ 4.3 billion in mineral worth in the area would damage both the conservation land as well as the island's tourism economy. Locals were split on
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#17327809542281296-585: A maximum length (north-south) of some 43 kilometres (27 mi), it and the Coromandel Peninsula (directly to its south) protect the Gulf from the storms of the Pacific Ocean to the east. Consequently, the island boasts highly contrasting coastal environments. The eastern coast comprises long, sandy beaches, windswept sand-dunes, and at times heavy surf. The western coast, sheltered and calm,
1404-401: A maximum length (north-south) of some 43 kilometres (27 mi), it and the Coromandel Peninsula (directly to its south) protect the Gulf from the storms of the Pacific Ocean to the east. Consequently, the island boasts highly contrasting coastal environments. The eastern coast comprises long, sandy beaches, windswept sand-dunes, and at times heavy surf. The western coast, sheltered and calm,
1512-573: A new communications cable was laid to the mainland, which made the pigeon post redundant. Another major wreck lies in the far southeast, the SS Wiltshire . Over time, more and more of the island came under the stewardship of the Department of Conservation (DOC) or its predecessors. Partly this was land that had belonged to the Crown since the 1800s, while other parts were sold or donated like
1620-403: A new communications cable was laid to the mainland, which made the pigeon post redundant. Another major wreck lies in the far southeast, the SS Wiltshire . Over time, more and more of the island came under the stewardship of the Department of Conservation (DOC) or its predecessors. Partly this was land that had belonged to the Crown since the 1800s, while other parts were sold or donated like
1728-597: A number of sports teams and facilities on the island. Rugby union , cricket , rugby league , football and netball are widely played and followed. There are three main sports facilities on the island: Waiheke Island has two primary schools and one secondary school. It is the only island in New Zealand, other than the North and South Islands, with a secondary school. In 2016, the New Zealand Government Education Minister announced
1836-417: A passenger and car "City Service" connecting Kennedy Point with Auckland's Wynyard Quarter . There have been several attempts to provide alternative passenger ferry services from Matiatia. Most recently, New Zealand tour cruise company Explore Group provided a Matiatia to Downtown service from late 2014 until April 2016. The competition was welcomed by Waiheke residents, but ultimately proved unsustainable for
1944-529: A passenger, car and freight ferry. This ferry operates from Wynyard Wharf in Auckland City to Tryphena (several times weekly). Sailing time is approximately four and a half hours. Other ways to access the island include by seaplane or water taxi . Institutions and services are primarily provided by the Auckland Council , the local authority. Services and infrastructure like roads and
2052-401: A passenger, car and freight ferry. This ferry operates from Wynyard Wharf in Auckland City to Tryphena (several times weekly). Sailing time is approximately four and a half hours. Other ways to access the island include by seaplane or water taxi . Institutions and services are primarily provided by the Auckland Council , the local authority. Services and infrastructure like roads and
2160-425: A population of 1.2 million), 737 of which were made by Waihekeans (population 8,500), almost 1/4 of all submissions. This exemplified the level of citizen involvement found on Waiheke. A public meeting of 150 residents on 29 March 2008 found a majority in favour of breaking away from Auckland City. The Royal Commission recommended that Waiheke Island retain its community board with enhanced powers. When Auckland Council
2268-580: A population of 9,063 at the 2018 New Zealand census . There were 3,648 households, comprising 4,461 males and 4,599 females, giving a sex ratio of 0.97 males per female. The percentage of people born overseas was 32.0, compared with 27.1% nationally. Although some people chose not to answer the census's question about religious affiliation, 62.0% had no religion, 23.9% were Christian , 0.8% had Māori religious beliefs , 0.4% were Hindu , 0.1% were Muslim , 1.1% were Buddhist and 3.5% had other religions. Of those at least 15 years old, 2,337 (30.6%) people had
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#17327809542282376-466: A rare event on Waiheke. Rainfall is typically plentiful, though dry spells may occur during the summer months which can be problematic for many of the island residents, the vast majority of whom rely on rainwater harvesting from residential roofs for drinking and household use. During such dry periods (typically 3–4 months between December and March), the island's water-delivery trucks can be seen replenishing residential water tanks that have run dry. It
2484-544: A relative haven for native bird and plant populations. Rare animals found on the island include brown teal ducks, black petrel seabirds and kākā parrots. Great Barrier Island has two marae affiliated with the local iwi of Ngāti Rehua and Ngātiwai : the Kawa Marae and its Rehua meeting house, and Motairehe Marae and its Whakaruruhau meeting house. In October 2020, the Government committed $ 313,007 from
2592-426: A relative haven for native bird and plant populations. Rare animals found on the island include brown teal ducks, black petrel seabirds and kākā parrots. Great Barrier Island has two marae affiliated with the local iwi of Ngāti Rehua and Ngātiwai : the Kawa Marae and its Rehua meeting house, and Motairehe Marae and its Whakaruruhau meeting house. In October 2020, the Government committed $ 313,007 from
2700-430: A small deposit on top of a cost of 8 pence a day and was promoted as a sound investment, however, a level of self sufficiency was required for life on the island as electricity only arrived in 1954. These land offers were not open to Māori. Ostend and Surfdale were joined by additional subdivisions at Palm Beach, Rocky Bay and Oneroa in the 1920s. During World War II , three gun emplacements were built at Stony Batter on
2808-633: A subtropical climate according to the Trewartha climate classification , and an oceanic climate according to the Köppen climate classification . The region lies 13° of latitude south of the Tropic of Capricorn, so tropical plants which are protected for the winter months will flower and fruit in the summer, and cold climate vegetables planted in autumn will mature in early spring. Summers tend to be warm and humid, while winters are relatively mild with frost being
2916-404: A wide range of activities such as kite surfing, kayaking, stand-up-paddle boarding, boating, swimming and other typical beach pursuits. Waiheke has a community-run cinema, a theatre that hosts a number of regular musicians, performances and local productions, and a library that was rebuilt in 2014 at the cost of $ 6 million. There are a large number of art galleries run by private individuals across
3024-501: Is 19.3 km (12.0 mi) in length from west to east, varies in width from 0.64 to 9.65 km (0.40 to 6.00 mi), and has a surface area of 92 km (36 sq mi). The coastline is 133.5 km (83.0 mi), including 40 km (25 mi) of beaches. The port of Matiatia at the western end is 17.7 km (11.0 mi) from Auckland and the eastern end is 21.4 km (13.3 mi) from Coromandel . The much smaller Tarahiki Island lies 3 km (1.9 mi) to
3132-484: Is 627 metres (2,057 ft) above sea level. Great Barrier is surrounded by several smaller islands, including Kaikoura Island , Rakitu Island , Aiguilles Island and Dragon Island . A number of islands are located in Great Barrier bays, including Motukahu Island, Nelson Island, Kaikoura Island, Broken Islands, Motutaiko Island, Rangiahua Island, Little Mahuki Island, Mahuki Island and Junction Islands. With
3240-410: Is 627 metres (2,057 ft) above sea level. The local authority is the Auckland Council . The island was initially exploited for its minerals and kauri trees and saw only limited agriculture. In 2013, it was inhabited by 939 people, mostly living from farming and tourism and all living off-the-grid. The majority of the island (around 60% of the total area) is administered as a nature reserve by
3348-399: Is free of some of the more troublesome introduced pests that plague the native ecosystems of other parts of New Zealand. While it does have wild cats, feral pigs, black rats ( R. rattus ), Polynesian rats ( R. exulans ), mice and rabbits, there are no possums , mustelids (weasels, stoats or ferrets), hedgehogs, brown rats ( R. norvegicus ), deer or (since 2006) feral goats, thus being
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3456-399: Is free of some of the more troublesome introduced pests that plague the native ecosystems of other parts of New Zealand. While it does have wild cats, feral pigs, black rats ( R. rattus ), Polynesian rats ( R. exulans ), mice and rabbits, there are no possums , mustelids (weasels, stoats or ferrets), hedgehogs, brown rats ( R. norvegicus ), deer or (since 2006) feral goats, thus being
3564-423: Is home to hundreds of tiny, secluded bays which offer some of the best diving and boating in the country. The inland holds several large and biologically diverse wetlands , along with rugged hill country (bush or heath in the more exposed heights), as well as old-growth and regenerating kauri forests. Surrounding islands and islets: Much of Great Barrier Island is formed from remnants of volcanoes associated with
3672-423: Is home to hundreds of tiny, secluded bays which offer some of the best diving and boating in the country. The inland holds several large and biologically diverse wetlands , along with rugged hill country (bush or heath in the more exposed heights), as well as old-growth and regenerating kauri forests. Surrounding islands and islets: Much of Great Barrier Island is formed from remnants of volcanoes associated with
3780-538: Is often anecdotally said by locals that Waiheke has a different micro-climate from the Auckland isthmus . Though little data supports this, the following data from a NIWA report suggests Waiheke receives over 100 hours more sunshine a year than other parts of Auckland. The islands of the Hauraki Gulf have been settled since the archaic period of Māori history , and were visited by many of the migratory canoes such as Aotea , Tākitimu , and Mātaatua . Only
3888-686: Is the caldera of a complex rhyolite dome volcano , which was active between 12 and 8 million years ago. Great Barrier Island has been linked to the North Island for most of the last 18 million years, by a land bridge to the south along the Colville Channel . Approximately 17,000 years ago during the Last Glacial Maximum , the Hauraki Gulf was a low lying coastal plain as sea levels were over 100 metres lower than present day levels. During this period, Great Barrier Island
3996-488: Is the caldera of a complex rhyolite dome volcano , which was active between 12 and 8 million years ago. Great Barrier Island has been linked to the North Island for most of the last 18 million years, by a land bridge to the south along the Colville Channel . Approximately 17,000 years ago during the Last Glacial Maximum , the Hauraki Gulf was a low lying coastal plain as sea levels were over 100 metres lower than present day levels. During this period, Great Barrier Island
4104-448: Is the sixth-largest island of New Zealand and fourth-largest in the main chain. Its highest point, Mount Hobson , is 627 metres (2,057 ft) above sea level. The local authority is the Auckland Council . The island was initially exploited for its minerals and kauri trees and saw only limited agriculture. In 2013, it was inhabited by 939 people, mostly living from farming and tourism and all living off-the-grid. The majority of
4212-576: Is via two channels, one on each side of the island. Colville Channel separates the southernmost point, Cape Barrier, from Cape Colville at the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula to the south, Cradock Channel from the smaller Little Barrier Island to the west. The island protects the Hauraki Gulf from the ocean surface waves and the currents of the South Pacific Gyre . It is not a sandbar barrier , often defined as
4320-547: The Coromandel Volcanic Zone . The North Great Barrier Volcano, which was centred to the north of the modern island from Whangapoua Bay northwards, formed through events between 18 and 17 million years ago; some of the earliest vulcanism which occurred in the zone. The Great Barrier Volcano formed to the west of the modern island between 15 and 12 million years ago. Much of the modern island is this volcano's eroded eastern flanks. The third volcano, Mount Hobson ,
4428-471: The Coromandel Volcanic Zone . The North Great Barrier Volcano, which was centred to the north of the modern island from Whangapoua Bay northwards, formed through events between 18 and 17 million years ago; some of the earliest vulcanism which occurred in the zone. The Great Barrier Volcano formed to the west of the modern island between 15 and 12 million years ago. Much of the modern island is this volcano's eroded eastern flanks. The third volcano, Mount Hobson ,
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4536-588: The Department of Conservation . The island atmosphere is sometimes described as being "life in New Zealand many decades back". The Māori name of the island is Aotea . It received its English name from Captain Cook because it acts as a barrier between the Pacific Ocean and the Hauraki Gulf. Entrance to the Hauraki Gulf is via two channels, one on each side of the island. Colville Channel separates
4644-507: The New Zealand Correspondence School . Many children leave the island when they reach secondary school age to attend boarding school on the mainland. Previously, the lack of secondary schooling was cited as one of the reasons for a slow exodus of long-term resident families. As part of Auckland the rules governing daily activities and applicable standards for civic works and services exists, shared with some of
4752-419: The New Zealand Correspondence School . Many children leave the island when they reach secondary school age to attend boarding school on the mainland. Previously, the lack of secondary schooling was cited as one of the reasons for a slow exodus of long-term resident families. As part of Auckland the rules governing daily activities and applicable standards for civic works and services exists, shared with some of
4860-597: The Provincial Growth Fund to upgrade Kawa Marae, creating 6 jobs. In 2017, Aotea / Great Barrier Island was accredited as a Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association . This designation is given for sites in very remote locations to increase awareness of their dark sky characteristics and promote long term conservation. At the time, it was the third International Dark Sky Sanctuary to be designated, and
4968-433: The Provincial Growth Fund to upgrade Kawa Marae, creating 6 jobs. In 2017, Aotea / Great Barrier Island was accredited as a Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association . This designation is given for sites in very remote locations to increase awareness of their dark sky characteristics and promote long term conservation. At the time, it was the third International Dark Sky Sanctuary to be designated, and
5076-522: The 17th century after conquering Aotea from people of Ngāti Manaia and Kawerau descent. In the mid-19th century during the early Colonial era of New Zealand , extensive private and crown land purchases meant only two areas of the Hauraki Gulf remained in Māori ownership: Te Huruhi ( Surfdale ) on Waiheke Island (2100 acres) on Waiheke and a 3,510 acre parcel of land at Katherine Bay on Great Barrier Island. Early European interest followed discovery of copper in
5184-474: The 17th century after conquering Aotea from people of Ngāti Manaia and Kawerau descent. In the mid-19th century during the early Colonial era of New Zealand , extensive private and crown land purchases meant only two areas of the Hauraki Gulf remained in Māori ownership: Te Huruhi ( Surfdale ) on Waiheke Island (2100 acres) on Waiheke and a 3,510 acre parcel of land at Katherine Bay on Great Barrier Island. Early European interest followed discovery of copper in
5292-545: The 1850s. By the 1850s, the only Ngāti Pāoa land that remained on the island was a 2,100 acre section at Te Huruhi (near the modern suburb of Blackpool). Through a process of individualisation of land titled, the Māori Land Court split the Te Huruhi block between 65 individuals, and by 1914 most of the block had been sold to private interests. By the end of the 19th century, the island was increasingly deforested, and land
5400-563: The City Council represented all the inhabited Hauraki Gulf islands (i.e. Waiheke, Great Barrier and Rakino) plus the downtown area in the central business district. In 1989 Waiheke County Council was amalgamated with Auckland City Council as part of Local Government restructuring of that year. In 1990 the Waiheke Community Board formally requested the right to de-amalgamate from the city. A 'De-amalgamation Committee'
5508-560: The Coromandel coast. Waiheke Island has historically been settled by various tribes, especially the Marutūāhu collective tribes of Ngāti Maru and Ngāti Pāoa . Waiheke Island was the site of many battles between Ngāti Pāoa and Ngāpuhi from the Bay of Islands , up until the late 18th century. In the 1790s, sealing and whaling ships underwent repairs primarily on Waiheke Island. The island
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#17327809542285616-561: The Local Board. Newly elected were Cath Handley and Bob Upchurch. In 2015–16, the subject of amalgamation remained a hot topic on the island with an application filed with the Local Government Commission from a group called Our Waiheke for a unitary authority. Waiheke's lifestyle is largely influenced by the fact that it is surrounded by water – there are a number of beaches mentioned above, that are popular for
5724-472: The company. In recent years, there has been significant controversy with many of Waiheke's resident population who rely on the ferries "like buses" – and especially those who commute daily to work in Auckland – complaining of poor parking arrangements at Matiatia, unfair price increases and generally poor ferry services. This led to the launch of a Ferry User's Group (or FUG) and a "Fuller's Watch" group, with
5832-530: The correct use of the term. The island's English name stems from its location on the outskirts of the Hauraki Gulf. With an area of 285 square kilometres (110 sq mi), Great Barrier Island is the sixth-largest island in New Zealand after the South Island , the North Island , Stewart Island / Rakiura , Chatham Island , and Auckland Island . The highest point, Mount Hobson or Hirakimatā ,
5940-505: The current growth is younger native forest (around 150,000 kauri seedlings were planted by the New Zealand Forest Service in the 1970s and 1980s) as well as some remaining kauri in the far north of the island. Much of the island is covered with regenerating bush dominated by kanuka and kauri. Great Barrier Island was the site of New Zealand's last whaling station, at Whangaparapara , which opened in 1956, over
6048-426: The current growth is younger native forest (around 150,000 kauri seedlings were planted by the New Zealand Forest Service in the 1970s and 1980s) as well as some remaining kauri in the far north of the island. Much of the island is covered with regenerating bush dominated by kanuka and kauri. Great Barrier Island was the site of New Zealand's last whaling station, at Whangaparapara , which opened in 1956, over
6156-489: The east. The island is very hilly with few flat areas, the highest point being Maunganui at 231 m (758 ft). Approximately 17,000 years ago during the Last Glacial Maximum when sea levels were over 100 metres lower than present day levels, Waiheke Island was landlocked to the North Island, surrounded by a vast coastal plain where the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana exists today. Sea levels began to rise 7,000 years ago, after which Waiheke became an island separated from
6264-473: The eastern edge to protect Allied shipping in Waitematā Harbour , in the fear that Japanese ships might reach New Zealand. This mirrored developments at North Head and Rangitoto Island . The guns were never fired in anger . The empty emplacements can be visited seven days a week. The extensive tunnels below them have also opened as a tourist attraction. In 1999 Waiheke's community board voted Waiheke as
6372-404: The emerging industries, helping to supply timber and food for European ships. Ngāti Pāoa established wheat and vegetable plantations on the eastern bays of the island. The shipbuilding industry remained on the island until the 1860s, after which the eastern farming plantations quickly became disused. Ngāti Pāoa at Te Huruhi continued to supply produce to Auckland until the early 20th century. Much of
6480-450: The firewood and building timber supplied to the growing city of Auckland was supplied by Waiheke Island forests, while shingle and sand from Owhanake and Hooks Bay was used for concrete manufacturing, up until the 1920s. The island was also home to manganese mines between 1872 and 1900 (briefly first established in the 1840s). Large private land purchases occurred on Waiheke between 1836 and 1840s, followed by large crown land purchases in
6588-406: The first island sanctuary. Barrier Islands statistical area, which includes Little Barrier Island and Mokohinau Islands although they have no permanent inhabitants, covers 320.41 km (123.71 sq mi) and had an estimated population of 1,230 as of June 2024, with a population density of 3.8 people per km . Barrier Islands had a population of 930 at the 2018 New Zealand census ,
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#17327809542286696-406: The first island sanctuary. Barrier Islands statistical area, which includes Little Barrier Island and Mokohinau Islands although they have no permanent inhabitants, covers 320.41 km (123.71 sq mi) and had an estimated population of 1,230 as of June 2024, with a population density of 3.8 people per km . Barrier Islands had a population of 930 at the 2018 New Zealand census ,
6804-409: The furthest west, followed by Palm Beach , Surfdale , and Ostend . Further east lies Onetangi , on the northern coast of the wide Onetangi Bay . To the south of this on the opposing coast is Whakanewha Regional Park , Whakanewha , and Ōmiha (also called 'Rocky Bay'). Much of the eastern half of the island is privately owned farmland and vineyards. Waiheke is a popular holiday spot, and during
6912-414: The island (around 60% of the total area) is administered as a nature reserve by the Department of Conservation . The island atmosphere is sometimes described as being "life in New Zealand many decades back". The Māori name of the island is Aotea . It received its English name from Captain Cook because it acts as a barrier between the Pacific Ocean and the Hauraki Gulf. Entrance to the Hauraki Gulf
7020-574: The island was seen around the world as the setting for the BBC One reality show Castaway , which was filmed there for three months. There are two airfields on the island, Great Barrier Aerodrome at Claris and Okiwi Airfield . Barrier Air operates services from Auckland Airport , North Shore Aerodrome , and Tauranga to Claris. Flight time is approximately 30 minutes from Auckland Airport. Sunair operates between Claris and Hamilton , Tauranga , Whangārei and Whitianga . SeaLink operates
7128-519: The island was seen around the world as the setting for the BBC One reality show Castaway , which was filmed there for three months. There are two airfields on the island, Great Barrier Aerodrome at Claris and Okiwi Airfield . Barrier Air operates services from Auckland Airport , North Shore Aerodrome , and Tauranga to Claris. Flight time is approximately 30 minutes from Auckland Airport. Sunair operates between Claris and Hamilton , Tauranga , Whangārei and Whitianga . SeaLink operates
7236-709: The island, along with a community art gallery. Waiheke has become internationally known for the biennial exhibition Sculpture on the Gulf , an "outdoor sculpture exhibition set on a spectacular coastal walkway on Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf". It takes place towards the end of January until approximately mid-March every second year. It was listed by the New York Times as number 35 in its list of 46 must-see places and events of 2013. The sculpture walk attracts thousands of visitors to Waiheke; in 2013, there were more than 30,000 attendees. Waiheke has
7344-452: The island. It is more densely populated than the North and South Islands . It is the most accessible island in the gulf, with regular passenger and car-ferry services, a helicopter operator based on the island, and other air links. In November 2015, Lonely Planet rated Waiheke Island the fifth-best region in the world to visit in 2016. The island is off the coast of the North Island. It
7452-402: The largest islands such as Aotea / Great Barrier Island and Waiheke sustained permanent settlements. The forests on the western side of Waiheke Island were likely heavily damaged in the 14th century eruptions of Rangitoto Island . During 18th and early 19th centuries, the eastern side of Waiheke was forested by ancient kauri trees, while kānuka and mānuka bushes dominated the vegetation of
7560-460: The logs to the sea or to sawmills. Kauri logs were dragged to a convenient stream bed with steep sides and a driving dam was constructed of wood, with a lifting gate near the bottom large enough for the logs to pass through. When the dam had filled, which might take up to a year, the gate was opened and the logs above the dam were pushed out through the hole and swept down to the sea. The logging industry cut down large amounts of old growth, and most of
7668-460: The logs to the sea or to sawmills. Kauri logs were dragged to a convenient stream bed with steep sides and a driving dam was constructed of wood, with a lifting gate near the bottom large enough for the logs to pass through. When the dam had filled, which might take up to a year, the gate was opened and the logs above the dam were pushed out through the hole and swept down to the sea. The logging industry cut down large amounts of old growth, and most of
7776-532: The main summer season, especially around Christmas and Easter, its population increases substantially due to the number of holiday homes being rented out, corporate functions and dance parties at vineyards and restaurants, the Wine Festival and the Jazz Festival and weekend trippers from around the country and the world. The population increases significantly, almost all homes and baches are full and
7884-569: The more than 10% of the island (located in the northern bush area, with some of the largest remaining kauri forests) that was gifted to the Crown by farmer Max Burrill in 1984. DOC has created a large number of walking tracks through the island, some of which are also open for mountain biking. The Aotea Conservation Park has the only multi-day wilderness walk in the Auckland region, boasting two DOC huts and numerous campsites. The Park spreads over more than 12,000 hectares and offers multiple walking tracks for novice and experienced walkers. The island
7992-569: The more than 10% of the island (located in the northern bush area, with some of the largest remaining kauri forests) that was gifted to the Crown by farmer Max Burrill in 1984. DOC has created a large number of walking tracks through the island, some of which are also open for mountain biking. The Aotea Conservation Park has the only multi-day wilderness walk in the Auckland region, boasting two DOC huts and numerous campsites. The Park spreads over more than 12,000 hectares and offers multiple walking tracks for novice and experienced walkers. The island
8100-528: The new Local Board. After Roche's resignation after becoming a Member of Parliament for the Green Party of New Zealand in 2011, Paul Walden was elected in a by-election. In 2013 Lee was re-elected. Paul Walden was re-elected to the Local Board, joined by Beatle Treadwell, Becs Ballard, John Meeuwsen and Shirin Brown. In 2016, Lee was re-elected. Paul Walden, Shirin Brown and John Meeuwsen were re-elected to
8208-421: The objective of giving a voice to the island's ferry passengers whilst lobbying local politicians and working with the ferry companies to improve the overall experience. Great Barrier Island Great Barrier Island ( Māori : Aotea ) lies in the outer Hauraki Gulf , New Zealand , 100 kilometres (62 mi) north-east of central Auckland . With an area of 285 square kilometres (110 sq mi) it
8316-669: The other inhabited islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Driving rules are the same as for the rest of NZ and registration and a Warrant of Fitness are required for all vehicles. For example, every transport service operated solely on the island, the Chatham Islands , or Stewart Island/Rakiura is exempt from section 70C of the Transport Act 1962, the requirements for drivers to maintain driving-hours logbooks. Drivers subject to section 70B must nevertheless keep records of their driving hours in some form. Rules governing dog control are
8424-542: The other inhabited islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Driving rules are the same as for the rest of NZ and registration and a Warrant of Fitness are required for all vehicles. For example, every transport service operated solely on the island, the Chatham Islands , or Stewart Island/Rakiura is exempt from section 70C of the Transport Act 1962, the requirements for drivers to maintain driving-hours logbooks. Drivers subject to section 70B must nevertheless keep records of their driving hours in some form. Rules governing dog control are
8532-749: The outskirts of the Hauraki Gulf. With an area of 285 square kilometres (110 sq mi), Great Barrier Island is the sixth-largest island in New Zealand after the South Island , the North Island , Stewart Island / Rakiura , Chatham Island , and Auckland Island . The highest point, Mount Hobson or Hirakimatā , is 627 metres (2,057 ft) above sea level. Great Barrier is surrounded by several smaller islands, including Kaikoura Island , Rakitu Island , Aiguilles Island and Dragon Island . A number of islands are located in Great Barrier bays, including Motukahu Island, Nelson Island, Kaikoura Island, Broken Islands, Motutaiko Island, Rangiahua Island, Little Mahuki Island, Mahuki Island and Junction Islands. With
8640-431: The project, some hoping for new jobs. If restarted, mining at White Cliffs would occur in the same area it originally proliferated on Great Barrier. The area's regenerating bushland still holds numerous semi-collapsed or open mining shafts where silver and gold had been mined. The kauri logging industry was profitable in early European days and up to the mid-20th century. Forests were well inland, with no easy way to get
8748-431: The project, some hoping for new jobs. If restarted, mining at White Cliffs would occur in the same area it originally proliferated on Great Barrier. The area's regenerating bushland still holds numerous semi-collapsed or open mining shafts where silver and gold had been mined. The kauri logging industry was profitable in early European days and up to the mid-20th century. Forests were well inland, with no easy way to get
8856-583: The remote north, where New Zealand's earliest mines were established at Miners Head in 1842. Traces of these mines remain, largely accessible only by boat. Later, gold and silver were found in the Okupu / Whangaparapara area in the 1890s, and the remains of a stamping battery on the Whangaparapara Road are a remainder of this time. The sound of the battery working was reputedly audible from the Coromandel Peninsula , 20 km away. In early 2010,
8964-460: The remote north, where New Zealand's earliest mines were established at Miners Head in 1842. Traces of these mines remain, largely accessible only by boat. Later, gold and silver were found in the Okupu / Whangaparapara area in the 1890s, and the remains of a stamping battery on the Whangaparapara Road are a remainder of this time. The sound of the battery working was reputedly audible from the Coromandel Peninsula , 20 km away. In early 2010,
9072-584: The rest of New Zealand. Much of eastern Waiheke island is the remains of a Miocene volcano of the Kiwitahi Group, which erupted approximately 15 million years ago. There are locations of interest to geologists: an argillite outcrop in Ōmiha , and a chert stack at the end of Pohutukawa Point, considered "one of the best exposures of folded chert in Auckland City". There are many scenic beaches, including: Waiheke, like Auckland, experiences
9180-445: The same as for Auckland. Dogs must be kept on a lead in all public places. Great Barrier Island Great Barrier Island ( Māori : Aotea ) lies in the outer Hauraki Gulf , New Zealand , 100 kilometres (62 mi) north-east of central Auckland . With an area of 285 square kilometres (110 sq mi) it is the sixth-largest island of New Zealand and fourth-largest in the main chain. Its highest point, Mount Hobson ,
9288-458: The south-eastern bays of the island. In 1915, Aucklanders were offered the chance to buy affordable land at Ostend , the first subdivision of Waiheke. The naming of these new subdivisions reveal the central role of beach life to the identity of the island. The winner of a competition naming the Surfdale subdivision was awarded a parcel of land near the beach. A section of land could be bought for
9396-492: The south-west, Port Fitzroy and Ōkiwi in the north, and Claris and Medlands in the south-east. The population swells substantially from October to May. The island has become a favourite holiday destination in the darker months, due its superbly dark sky and the astrophotography and stargazing opportunities this offers. In 2017 the island was given Dark Sky Sanctuary status by the IDA. Its relative remoteness offers solitude, and
9504-443: The south-west, Port Fitzroy and Ōkiwi in the north, and Claris and Medlands in the south-east. The population swells substantially from October to May. The island has become a favourite holiday destination in the darker months, due its superbly dark sky and the astrophotography and stargazing opportunities this offers. In 2017 the island was given Dark Sky Sanctuary status by the IDA. Its relative remoteness offers solitude, and
9612-437: The southernmost point, Cape Barrier, from Cape Colville at the northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula to the south, Cradock Channel from the smaller Little Barrier Island to the west. The island protects the Hauraki Gulf from the ocean surface waves and the currents of the South Pacific Gyre . It is not a sandbar barrier , often defined as the correct use of the term. The island's English name stems from its location on
9720-402: The sustainable off-grid lifestyle of its inhabitants is something many visitors like to experience. Without reticulated electricity, most houses use solar panels and a battery bank to generate and store power. Wind and water turbines and solar water heaters are also used. Diesel generators, which used to be the main power source, are now mostly used as back-up. From the end of February 2007,
9828-402: The sustainable off-grid lifestyle of its inhabitants is something many visitors like to experience. Without reticulated electricity, most houses use solar panels and a battery bank to generate and store power. Wind and water turbines and solar water heaters are also used. Diesel generators, which used to be the main power source, are now mostly used as back-up. From the end of February 2007,
9936-775: The territorial authority of Auckland Council . The first local government on the island were the Ostend Road Board and Orapiu Road Board, which both formed in 1921 and were combined in 1947. In 1970, the Waiheke County Council was formed, which administered the local government on Waiheke and the surrounding Hauraki Gulf islands. Since 1989, when the county council merged with the Auckland City Council, there has been an elected community board with limited, mainly representational powers, in line with other neighbourhoods in Auckland. One member on
10044-478: The western side, suggesting relatively recent regeneration. The original Māori name for Waiheke was apparently Te Motu-arai-roa , 'the long sheltering island', but at the time the first European visitors arrived it was known as Motu-Wai-Heke , 'island of trickling waters' — rendered as Motu Wy Hake by James Downie, master of the store ship HMS Coromandel , in his 1820 chart of the Tamaki Strait and
10152-506: The wharves at Tryphena and Whangaparapara are subsidised, with the island receiving about $ 4 in services for every $ 1 in rates. The Port FitzRoy wharf is owned by the North Barrier Residents and Ratepayers Association. There are three primary schools: Mulberry Grove School at Tryphena, Kaitoke School at Claris, and Okiwi School. There is no secondary school, but there is a learning hub to assist students who learn through
10260-430: The wharves at Tryphena and Whangaparapara are subsidised, with the island receiving about $ 4 in services for every $ 1 in rates. The Port FitzRoy wharf is owned by the North Barrier Residents and Ratepayers Association. There are three primary schools: Mulberry Grove School at Tryphena, Kaitoke School at Claris, and Okiwi School. There is no secondary school, but there is a learning hub to assist students who learn through
10368-524: Was $ 21,300, compared with $ 31,800 nationally. 48 people (6.1%) earned over $ 70,000 compared to 17.2% nationally. The employment status of those at least 15 was that 279 (35.2%) people were employed full-time, 168 (21.2%) were part-time, and 57 (7.2%) were unemployed. The population lives mostly in coastal settlements. Tryphena , in Tryphena Harbour at the southern end, is the largest settlement. Other communities are Okupu and Whangaparapara in
10476-457: Was $ 21,300, compared with $ 31,800 nationally. 48 people (6.1%) earned over $ 70,000 compared to 17.2% nationally. The employment status of those at least 15 was that 279 (35.2%) people were employed full-time, 168 (21.2%) were part-time, and 57 (7.2%) were unemployed. The population lives mostly in coastal settlements. Tryphena , in Tryphena Harbour at the southern end, is the largest settlement. Other communities are Okupu and Whangaparapara in
10584-424: Was 18.4, compared with 27.1% nationally. Although some people chose not to answer the census's question about religious affiliation, 62.6% had no religion, 24.5% were Christian, 1.3% had Māori religious beliefs , 1.0% were Buddhist and 1.6% had other religions. Of those at least 15 years old, 144 (18.2%) people had a bachelor's or higher degree, and 144 (18.2%) people had no formal qualifications. The median income
10692-424: Was 18.4, compared with 27.1% nationally. Although some people chose not to answer the census's question about religious affiliation, 62.6% had no religion, 24.5% were Christian, 1.3% had Māori religious beliefs , 1.0% were Buddhist and 1.6% had other religions. Of those at least 15 years old, 144 (18.2%) people had a bachelor's or higher degree, and 144 (18.2%) people had no formal qualifications. The median income
10800-401: Was bordered by the two major river systems that flowed on the plain. Over the past two million years, Great Barrier has periodically been an island and a peninsula. Great Barrier Island (Aotea) is the ancestral land of Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea who are the tangata whenua (people of the land) and mana whenua (territorial land rights holders) of Aotea. Ngāti Rehua have occupied Aotea since
10908-401: Was bordered by the two major river systems that flowed on the plain. Over the past two million years, Great Barrier has periodically been an island and a peninsula. Great Barrier Island (Aotea) is the ancestral land of Ngāti Rehua Ngātiwai ki Aotea who are the tangata whenua (people of the land) and mana whenua (territorial land rights holders) of Aotea. Ngāti Rehua have occupied Aotea since
11016-644: Was briefly depopulated during the Musket Wars , when Ngāti Pāoa and other Tāmaki Māori sought refuge in areas such as the Waikato . When Ngāti Pāoa returned to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), they primarily settled on Waiheke. After the wars, the Ngāti Pāoa community of Waiheke were mostly based at Pūtiki Bay. In 1836, Thomas Maxwell established a shipyard at Man o'War Bay in eastern Waiheke, using local timber to build and repair ships. Ngāti Pāoa quickly engaged with
11124-769: Was created in 2010 by amalgamating seven councils and territorial authorities and Auckland Regional Council , Waiheke was given its own local board. The Waiheke Local Board was elected in the October 2010 Auckland local elections as part of the Auckland Council. The 2010 local elections resulted in Waiheke resident Mike Lee becoming the Councillor for the Waitemata and Gulf ward . Denise Roche , Faye Storer, Jo Holmes, Don McKenzie and Jim Hannan were elected to
11232-729: Was established by Council to facilitate the Board's wish. However, this proved not to be to the liking of most of Auckland's citizens. In 1991, the city responded to a campaign run by a pro-union group, the Waiheke Island Residents & Ratepayers Association (Inc) by holding a democratic referendum. The de-amalgamation proposal sponsored by the Community Board was defeated. In 2008, the Royal Commission on Auckland Governance received 3,080 submissions (from
11340-441: Was increasingly used for cattle pastures. In the late 1800s or early 1900s the island was owned by a man named Frank Bell, which caused the island to be previously known as Bell's Island. When shipping companies began offering occasional trips to the island in the 1880s, Waiheke emerged as a seaside resort. Day trips to Waiheke and Motutapu by steamers became a common recreational excursion, and boarding houses began to flourish at
11448-783: Was the main way to get to the island from the mainland for much of the twentieth century and was known for being a slow and noisy ferry. In 1987, the first of a fleet of new catamaran ferries began to provide more efficient access to and from the island. The 40 minute journey each way made a daily commute more viable. Scheduled ferry services regularly sail to and from Waiheke. Fullers operate passenger services from Downtown Auckland to Waiheke's Matiatia wharf, with trips taking approximately 40 minutes. Meanwhile, SeaLink provides passenger, car and freight services between Half Moon Bay in East Auckland and Waiheke's Kennedy Point, with trips taking around 50 minutes to an hour. SeaLink also offer
11556-472: Was the site of the sinking of the SS Wairarapa around midnight of 29 October 1894. This was one of New Zealand's worst shipwrecks, with about 140 lives lost, some of them buried in two beach grave sites in the far north. As a result, a Great Barrier Island pigeon post service was set up, the first message being flown on 14 May 1897. Special postage stamps were issued from October 1898 until 1908, when
11664-412: Was the site of the sinking of the SS Wairarapa around midnight of 29 October 1894. This was one of New Zealand's worst shipwrecks, with about 140 lives lost, some of them buried in two beach grave sites in the far north. As a result, a Great Barrier Island pigeon post service was set up, the first message being flown on 14 May 1897. Special postage stamps were issued from October 1898 until 1908, when
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