ferry travel time auckland to waiheke

• How To Get To Waiheke Island From Auckland (Fullers360 vs Sealink)

Last Updated On 6th February 2024 By Lauren | Wild Lovely World

Planning your trip to Waiheke Island from Auckland by ferry? You’ve come to the right place! This post will explain everything you need to know about travelling by ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island . You will discover how to travel on the ferry as a foot passenger or with a bike or a vehicle .

How To Travel From Auckland To Waiheke Island By Ferry

Discover More Awesome Things To Do In Auckland & Waiheke Island:

• 8 Awesome Things To Do In Onetangi, Waiheke Island

Camping On Waiheke Island: Poukaraka Flats Campground

The best hostel on waiheke island: waiheke backpackers hostel review, how to get around waiheke island (by car, bike, bus & on foot), fullers360 & sealink – ferry from auckland to waiheke island ⛴️.

There are two ferry companies that travel to Waiheke Island. They are Fullers360 and Sealink .

Both companies operate daily ferry services from Auckland to Waiheke Island and there are several departures each day. Both ferry companies travel from different ports around Auckland.

I will provide more information about these companies and travel options below.

Travelling On The Ferry On Foot / With A Bike 👣🚲

If you are travelling on foot or with a bike , then you can travel with either Fullers360 or Sealink . As a foot passenger, you can take your bike on the Fullers360 ferry for free (subject to space). On Sealink, you will need to pay $5 per bike for a one-way journey, or $10 for a return journey (unless you are travelling on a multi-trip or monthly pass ticket).

If you would like to travel by bike once you arrive on Waiheke Island, it is easy to rent an e-bike. Check out this company which offers all-day e-bike rental for an affordable price ( Viator *).

Which Ferry Company To Choose To Travel To Waiheke Island From Auckland

There are a number of differences between the two ferry companies that travel to Waiheke Island from Auckland. I will explain the main differences between Fullers360 and Sealink so that you can make the best decision for you on which company to choose.

Which Ferry Is More Convenient – Departure & Arrival Locations In Auckland & Waiheke Island

Fullers360 has departures from two locations in Auckland. One is in Auckland CBD at the Downtown Ferry Terminal, and one is in Devonport on the North Shore. Some departures to/from the Downtown Ferry Terminal also stop at Devonport on the way to/from Waiheke Island.

Fullers360’s CBD Ferry Terminal in Auckland is convenient for foot passengers who do not require car parking.

Sealink has departures from two locations around Auckland. One is in Auckland CBD (Hamer Street) and one in Half Moon Bay (outside of Auckland city centre).

If you do require car parking before boarding the ferry, then I recommend travelling with Sealink from Half Moon Bay. There is a large car park there in the marina area where you can park for free for 14 hours. If you require longer, you could possibly find free on-street parking.

Matiatia Ferry Terminal On Waiheke Island

On Waiheke Island, Fullers360 ferries arrive at the Matiatia Ferry Terminal. The Matiatia Ferry Terminal is an easily accessible ferry terminal on Waiheke for foot and bike passengers.

Matiatia Ferry Terminal is a 20-minute walk from Oneroa, one of Waiheke Island’s main townships. There are also buses which travel from Matiatia Ferry Terminal to major destinations on the island. If you are visiting Waiheke on a day trip, then Oneroa is a great place to spend the day. There are lots of fun and interesting things to do in Oneroa – check out this post to learn more: 11 Awesome Things To Do In Oneroa, Waiheke Island

The Google Map below shows the location of Matiatia Ferry Terminal on Waiheke Island:

Matiatia Ferry Terminal is also a great starting point to explore Waiheke Island by bus. The Ferry Terminal has regular public bus services that journey to all the best spots on the island. The Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus starts and finishes at this ferry terminal as well. I explain more about exploring Waiheke Island by bus in this post , but it’s good information to consider if you’re choosing which ferry company to travel with.

If you are interested in a more convenient arrival location on Waiheke Island, then I recommend travelling with Fullers360. The Matiatia Ferry Terminal it arrives at is well served by buses and is within walking distance of many of Waiheke’s great attractions.

Kennedy Point Ferry Terminal On Waiheke Island

Sealink ferries arrive at the Kennedy Point on Waiheke Island. The Kennedy Point Ferry Terminal is serviced by bus 501 which travels between Kennedy Point and Matiatia, via Surfdale and Oneroa. However, if you were to walk, it would take around 55 minutes to walk from Kennedy Point Terminal to Oneroa. So, Kennedy Point is not the most convenient location to arrive as a foot passenger on Waiheke Island.

The Google Map below shows the location of Kennedy Point Ferry Terminal on Waiheke Island:

Which Ferry Is Cheaper – How Fullers360 & Sealink’s Ferry Fares Compare

Fullers360 fares tend to be slightly more expensive than Sealink’s fares . An adult foot passenger travelling on Fullers360 can expect to pay about $27 for a one-way ticket, whereas on Sealink an adult one-way ticket will cost about $24.

If you’re making a return trip, however, then Fullers360 do offer a discount. You can get a return adult ticket from Auckland to Waiheke for $42 . Sealink does not offer any discounts on return tickets at present.

So although Sealink’s fares are slightly cheaper overall for one-way tickets, if you are a foot passenger and booking a return then I recommend you use Fullers360 as you will get a better price with their return ticket deal.

Book Your Return Fast Ferry Tickets

Between Auckland To Waiheke Island

Save More Money With AT HOP Card

An AT HOP card is Auckland’s public transport system card. Using an AT HOP card can help you save money on your travel tickets as the card gives you access to discounted fares. It costs a few dollars to buy the card, and then the card must be pre-loaded with credit that can be used to pay for ferry, train and bus journeys around Auckland.

Fullers360 accept the AT HOP card on their ferries. If you have one of these cards then you can travel from Auckland to Waiheke and vice versa for a slightly reduced rate ($21 rather than $27 for an adult single). See here for more information on AT HOP ferry fare discounts.

Sealink does not currently accept AT HOP card. However, AT HOP Gold cardholders can travel free of charge with Sealink (not including vehicles).

Which Ferry Is Faster – Travel Time Between Auckland & Waiheke Island

The Fullers360 ferry to Waiheke is faster than Sealink (40 minutes vs 60 minutes). This is because Fullers360 can operate a faster ferry as they do not take vehicles. So if you use Fullers360, you can arrive on Waiheke Island in around 40 minutes.

If travelling with Sealink, the ferries also carry vehicles as well as passengers, so the travel time is slower. It takes around 60 minutes to travel with Sealink from Auckland to Waiheke.

How To Book Your Ferry Ticket With Fullers360 (For Foot Passengers / Bicycles)

Book your tickets directly on the Fullers360 website or via GetYourGuide here*. Remember, you can get a return ticket for $42 between Auckland and Waiheke Island (Matiatia Ferry Terminal) and the journey takes just 40-minutes each way. Departures are from 6am until late everyday. Check ticket availability here:

Book Your Fullers360 Ferry Tickets

From Auckland To Waiheke Island

Travelling To Waiheke Island On The Ferry With A Vehicle 🚗

If you want to travel to Waiheke Island with your vehicle, then you must travel with Sealink . Sealink is the only company to operate vehicle ferries to Waiheke Island.

Do You Need A Car To Explore Waiheke Island?

No, not at all! While having a car will be more convenient, it is not absolutely necessary. Waiheke Island is a great island to explore on foot, by bike and by bus . The island is well-equipped for tourism and has many options to help you get around, including the public bus, e-bike rental and the tourist hop-on-hop-off Explorer bus .

Travelling with your own vehicle will be useful if you are going for several days, have a campervan or wish to explore the island more thoroughly. There are some more remote areas in the east of Waiheke Island that are not accessible by bus. The island is also much larger than you might expect, so having a car can come in handy if you are staying for a few days and want to do many day trips. If you want to camp on the island, there are a few camping options for tents and for sleep-in vehicles too.

Taking a car to Waiheke Island will be something you need to carefully consider. While it can be more convenient, it is also much more expensive. You will need to weigh up the cost vs the need for a car and see what suits your itinerary and budget.

Check out this post to discover the best things to do on Waiheke Island without a car: 16 Fun Things To Do On Waiheke Island Without A Car

Where To Board The Sealink Vehicle Ferry In Auckland

There are Sealink vehicle ferry departures from Auckland city centre (Hamer Street) and from Half Moon Bay which is east of Auckland CBD (approx. 30-minute drive).

It is much easier to take the vehicle ferry from Half Moon Bay to Waiheke Island because it is not in the CBD. There is less traffic and a larger parking area in Half Moon Bay where you can wait before you board. There are also more facilities available at the ferry terminal.

The Google Map below shows the location of Half Moon Bay Marina in Auckland:

How Much It Costs To Take A Vehicle To Waiheke Island From Auckland

You must pay for your vehicle and passengers separately on Sealink. The cost of the vehicle depends on the size. Prices for passengers and cars will also vary depending on the date, time and availability at the time of booking.

Sealink charges about $115 per car up to 5.5m and then $24 per passenger (both prices one-way).

You will not receive any discount for booking a return ticket! So a return trip to Waiheke from Auckland with your car will cost around $280 for one car and one passenger.

If you wish to take a motorcycle only it will cost $42.50 one-way and $85 return. A quadbike only will cost $56 one-way and $112 return.

If you need to transport a larger vehicle to Waiheke Island from Auckland, such as a truck, trailer, caravan or motorhome, then you need to enquire directly with Sealink to get a quote and to book. Spaces are subject to availability so you need to plan well in advance.

It is also best to book in advance to get the best prices and the times you want to travel because the ferries do fill up.

How Long The Vehicle Ferry Takes From Auckland To Waiheke Island

It takes around 60 minutes to travel on the Sealink vehicle ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island.

Vehicle bookings must arrive 30 minutes before departure and check-in will close 20 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing time for vehicles. 

While on the ferry you can enjoy the lounge/cafe facilities and admire the views. There are also toilets available on the ferry.

Arrival On Waiheke Island – Kennedy Point Ferry Terminal

Sealink ferries go to the Kennedy Point terminal on Waiheke Island. This is a different ferry terminal to the Mataitai Terminal (the most well known and popular ferry terminal on Waiheke Island). The Kennedy Point terminal is southeast of Oneroa, about a 10-minute drive.

The Google Map below shows the location of the Kennedy Point Terminal on Waiheke Island:

How To Book Your Ferry Tickets With Sealink (For Passengers With Vehicles)

You can book your tickets with Sealink directly on their website .

My Experience Travelling From Auckland To Waiheke Island – Sealink Vehicle Ferry Review

I travelled to Waiheke Island with my campervan from Half Moon Bay in Auckland.

It cost around $152 for 2 passengers and a vehicle. I paid for the price of a car because vehicles can be up to 5.5m in length and my campervan is within this.

I found the whole process (booking, checking in, boarding and disembarking) very straightforward.

The staff are very helpful and the ferry was comfortable for the journey.

You are welcome to leave your vehicle during the journey and explore the ferry. If the weather is nice you can enjoy the view across the Hauraki Gulf and islands!

How To Get To Waiheke Island From Auckland On The Ferry – Fullers360 vs Sealink Summary

Sealink and Fullers360 are the two ferry companies that you can travel with to Waiheke Island from Auckland. Each company has their own pros and cons and is best suited depending on the method of travel you choose.

If you need to travel to Waiheke Island with a vehicle , then Sealink is your only option.

If you are travelling as a foot passenger or with a bike , then you have the pick of Fullers360 or Sealink. However, looking at the differences between the two in terms of speed, convenience and price, Fullers360 offers a better value for money and time service than Sealink overall.

Discover The Best Things To Do On Waiheke Island – Plan Activities For When You Arrive

Once you arrive on Waiheke Island, make sure to check out Oneroa – one of Waiheke’s main townships. This cute village has plenty of awesome things to do! Find out more in this post: 11 Awesome Things To Do In Oneroa, Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island has some of the best beaches in New Zealand! Discover all the best beaches and what to do there in this post: 10 Best Beaches On Waiheke Island & What To Do There

If you’ve travelled to Waiheke Island without a car, find out the best things to do by walking, cycling or bus and how to get there in this post: 16 Fun Things To Do On Waiheke Island Without A Car

Looking for fun things to do on Waiheke Island? Check out these ideas:

Waiheke Island Full-Day Bike Rental

Discover Waiheke’s best beaches, activities and wineries at your own pace with an e-bike! An e-bike will help you cycle Waiheke’s hilly terrain with ease! Rental includes the bike, helmet, a lock and itineraries/maps. Once you’ve finished, the bikes will be collected from you making it a stress-free experience. Get a full days rental  from $110 per group (up to 8 people) .  For more information on Full-Day Bike Rental in Waiheke Island click here* (Viator).

Waiheke Island Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tickets

Catch the ferry from Auckland and explore Waiheke on the  hop-on/hop-off tour  bus. Taking the bus is a flexible and cost-effective tour option on Waiheke Island. The  Explorer bus  goes to all the major stops on the island, including vineyards and beaches. The bus stops at 16 stops including the Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Oneroa Village, Onetangi Beach (another awesome beach on Waiheke), Mudbrick Vineyard and Cable Bay Vineyard and more! Tickets  from $68 per person.  For more information on the Explorer Bus click here* (Viator).

Waiheke Island Zipline & Native Forest Adventure Trip

The  Zipline & Native Forest Adventure  is a different activity to do on Waiheke Island. Glide over a forest canopy in native New Zealand bush. You can go with a friend and enjoy 3 200-meter ziplines together. The zipline glides over a vineyard! You will also get panoramic views of the beautiful Hauraki Gulf. The trip includes pickup and drop off from the Matiatia Ferry Terminal.  From $129 per person .   For more information on the Waiheke Island Zipline Adventure click here* (Get Your Guide).

Waiheke Island Premium Food & Wine Tour With Platter Lunch

Make your own way to Waiheke Island and then discover local produce and wines from top boutique vineyards on this fully-guided food and wine tour. The  Waiheke Island Premium Food & Wine Tour  lasts around 5.5 hours. Your guide will meet you at the Matiata Wharf (or your Waiheke Island accommodation) and will transport you across the island. Taste fresh and award-winning local foods of the island along with great wines. Your tour also includes a platter lunch at one of the island’s top vineyard restaurants. This is a really popular tour with 4.9/5 star reviews from previous visitors!  From $215 per person .   For more information on the Waiheke Premium Food & Wine Tour click here* (Get Your Guide).

Book Activities On Viator

Book activities with get your guide, search for accommodation on waiheke island.

Finding a place to stay for your trip to Waiheke Island? Take a look at options on  Booking.com , Hostelworld and  Tripadvisor . Or use the search box below:

How To Get To Waiheke Island From Auckland – Thanks For Reading!

I hope that this post has helped you when planning your trip to Waiheke Island from Auckland on the ferry!

Did you find this article useful? Let me know in the comments or join me on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest and Instagram . Buy me a coffee here!

If you enjoyed this post, share it with a friend! 💌

My Travel Resources guide will help you get the best deals when booking your next trip – check it out here !

Lauren | Wild Lovely World

Lauren is a coffee and cat obsessed travel writer from the U.K., specialising in solo female, couple travel and budget backpacking. She has previously lived in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, England and Scotland. Follow her adventures around the world on her blog WildLovelyWorld.com

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Understanding our Waiheke ferry fares

Fullers360 offers a range of fares to provide value and flexibility when travelling between Waiheke and Downtown Auckland. Our fares can be categorised into distinct travelling groups: frequent travelers, residents and commuters; and visitors to Waiheke.

Waiheke Island is both a popular visitor destination, and suburb of Auckland. For frequent ferry users we have designed our fares to provide both value and flexibility with a range of options to suit. 

For occasional travel we offer two visitor fares, peak and off-peak tickets. Our off-peak tickets are designed to encourage travel  in off-peak times to help manage the flow of passengers. We also offer discounts on standard return tickets when bought online in advance,  giving visitors a variety of choice when planning their travel to Waiheke.

Frequent ferry users

Within our range of ferry fares there are multiple options available to support frequency and provide flexibility. For those who travel with us frequently, we offer value ticket bundles through our range of passes.

For frequent ferry users, the following fares are most suitable:

Fullers360 monthly pass:   Unlimited travel for a month, from the first day of use.

Fullers360 FlexiPass (10 or 40 trip tickets) : A flexible multi-trip option for our Waiheke Island customers.

Off-island fares:   If you live on Waiheke Island and need to travel to Auckland on an infrequent basis, an off-island fare (purchased from Matiatia self-service ticket kiosk or ticket office) is a cost-effective option. The off-island ticket is valid for return travel on the day of purchase.

AT HOP Waiheke monthly pass:   Auckland Transport offer a Waiheke monthly pass though their partnership with Fullers360. You will need an AT HOP card to access this price, and this can be purchased directly through AT.

Visitor travel

For passengers travelling to Waiheke either as a visitor or infrequent travelers we offer two fares types.

Peak tickets:   This ticket gives visitors access to any of our scheduled Waiheke Island timetable services.

Waiheke Reserve tickets: Waiheke Reserve is a return ferry service which gives visitors to Waiheke Island the opportunity to pre-book the date and departure times in advance of travel to and from Waiheke Island. The Waiheke Reserve ferry has concluded its peak summer services for the season. We are scheduled to resume sailing next summer. For more information read here . 

Off-peak tickets:   Off-peak tickets give customers a discount for choosing to travel outside of peak times. Depart Auckland from 1pm (inclusive), Monday – Sunday, Depart Waiheke from 7pm (inclusive), Monday – Sunday.

Family tickets:   Family return tickets provide better value than purchasing tickets individually. A standard family ticket includes two adults and two children. Children must be 5-15 years old. Children under 5 years old travel for free. Add on an additional child for only $17.50 by calling our customer care team on   +64 9 367 9111   or visiting one of our ticket offices.

Pre-purchase tickets online to access better pricing and avoid ticket queues on the wharf.

A full list of Fullers360 Waiheke Island fares are below:

*** The Waiheke Reserve ferry has concluded its peak summer services for the season. We are scheduled to resume sailing next summer. The Waiheke Walk-up ferry service operates year round and offers a high-frequency, regular schedule.

**A family ticket includes two adults and two children. Children must be 5-15 years old *Infants and children under 5 years old travel for free

For further information on Fullers360 tickets and passes please visit our t erms and conditions . 

Which pass is best if I’m travelling to and from Waiheke more than 15 return trips per month?

If you are wanting the flexibility to travel as much as possible for a month, the Fullers360 or AT HOP Waiheke monthly pass is the most cost-effective fare.

Which ticket should I purchase if I’m travelling to and from Waiheke less than once a week?

In this instance, purchasing an off-island ticket, off-peak ticket, or the 10-trip FlexiPass are the most cost effective.

Which pass is right for me if I need to travel two or three times per week?

The most cost-effective way to travel is the monthly pass, especially if you are travelling to and from Waiheke more than three times a week and require day to day flexibility.

What is the off-island fare?

The off-island ticket is designed to provide residents who do not travel regularly with a cost-effective way to get to Auckland without having to buy a multi-trip pass. The off-island return fare is $34.20 for adults, $16.50 for a child and $83 for a family. The ticket can only be purchased at Matiatia self-service ticket kiosk or ticket office and is valid for travel on the day of purchase.

Alternatively off-peak tickets are available for those with travel time flexibility. The off-peak ticket is $44 for adults, $19 for a child and $98 for a family. Start your trip from either Waiheke (from 7pm Mon-Sun) or Auckland (from 1pm Mon - Sun).  

My friends and family are visiting, what is the cheapest way for them to get to the island?

Travelling during off-peak times is the most cost-effective way for visitors to get to the island. This fare sits at a 25% discount from the standard Waiheke Walk-up price.

Which fare offers the most flexibility?

We offer a range of fares that provide flexibility to suit your travel needs. For frequent travelers, the 40-trip pass is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. Alternatively, the monthly pass offers unlimited travel for a month and proves to be the most cost-effective option on a per/trip basis. Choose the pass that best aligns with your travel frequency and preferences.

Buy frequent travel passes

Frequent travelers to and from Waiheke Island can make use of multi-trip or monthly ferry passes which provide the most cost-effective fares. 

Buy ferry tickets

Buy your ticket online and access the discounted online rate. With your pre-purchased e-ticket you'll be able to skip the on-wharf ticket queue.

Customer Support

Auckland Pier 13, Downtown Ferry Terminal, Auckland

Pier 3, Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Waiheke Island

Island time: (GMT+12)

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Fares and information.

Island Direct is your ticket to reliable, bookable ferry travel between downtown Auckland and Waiheke Island. Book ahead to guarantee a set sailing time or walk up and buy a ticket from the crew as you board.

Ticket type

Children (5-12 yrs)

Children (0 - 4 yrs)

FAMILY (2x ADULTS & 2x CHILDREN)

10X TICKETS

40X TICKETS

Children (5-12 YRS)

FARE CONDITIONS

All sailings are subject to availability. Reservations cancelled up to 24 hours prior to the sailing departure, are eligbile for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours, are non-refundable. A multi-pass is valid 12 months from the date of purchase and can be used for up to two passengers per journey. Monthly Passes are valid for walk-up travel only, meaning they cannot be used to make reservations for specific times. Monthly pass holders must board on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to seat availability. See our full terms and conditions here.

Buy or renew Multi-pass

Sign in to the multi-pass portal to purchase a multi-pass, book tickets or manage upcoming bookings.

With up to 18 sailings per day between downtown Auckland and Waiheke Island, view our full timetable here.

Manage booking

Make changes to an existing reservation or cancel your scheduled sailing with Island Direct.

Have a question about travelling with Island Direct? Head to our frequently asked questions (FAQs) to find out more.

Travel Alert

Sailings will not operate from Tuesday 3rd - Thursday 5th September due to routine maintenance. We'll be back in service Friday 6th September. Thank you for your understanding!

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• Ferry Waiheke Island

Ferry - Waiheke Island Auckland

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Waiheke Island Ferry from Auckland

• Ask a Question
• Return Auckland to Waiheke Island ferry
• 40 minute scenic ferry journey
• Visit New Zealand's 'island of wine'
• Links to wine tours, walking trails, ziplining & more!

Description

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city on the Waiheke Island Ferry from Auckland, a 40 minute scenic ferry journey. With regular departures from Auckland, the Waiheke Island Ferry is the most convenient and affordable way to access New Zealand's famous 'island of wine'.

The Auckland to Waiheke Island ferry journey takes just 40 minutes (45 minutes via Devonport), departing from downtown Auckland ferry terminal. Sit back and relax with a choice of spacious indoor or outdoor decks, where you can enjoy breathtaking views Auckland city and the Hauraki Gulf. Once you arrive on Waiheke Island, you'll be greeted by pristine beaches, rolling vineyards and charming seaside villages.

Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, sample some of the region's finest wines or explore the island's many hiking trails, Waiheke Island has so much to offer. Check out popular things to do on Waiheke Island below:

Ecozip Adventures Experience the thrill of ziplining through stunning natural landscapes on Waiheke Island with EcoZip Adventures, the ultimate eco-friendly adventure.

Premium Waiheke Wine Tour Embark on a premium Waiheke Wine Tour with Enjoi Wine Tours and indulge in the finest wines amidst breathtaking island vistas.

Waiheke Explorer Tour (ferry included) Discover the beauty of Waiheke Island onboard the hop-on hop-off Waiheke Explorer Bus, offering easy transport to explore the island's treasures.

Waiheke Island Wine & Dine Lunch Tour (ferry included) Experience the culinary delights of Waiheke Island on the Wine & Dine Lunch Tour by Fullers360, visiting your choice of lunch venues.

Enjoy a stress-free journey onboard the Waiheke Island Ferry from Auckland today and discover the magic of this stunning island paradise. With regular departures and affordable fares, it's never been easier to escape the city and experience the beauty of Waiheke Island.

Trip Includes

• Return Waiheke Island ferry from Auckland
• 40 minute ferry journey (each way)
• 45 minutes via Devonport
• Allow a half day / full day
• Every hour between 6am & 9:30pm (additional late departures thereafter)
• Departs from Pier 11 & 12, Downtown Ferry Terminal, Auckland
• Return ferry departs from Matiatia Wharf, Waiheke Island
• Operates daily all year

Other Information

• Child rates apply (5-15yrs)
• Infants 0-4yrs travel free of charge
• Fullers Waiheke Ferry is for foot passengers only (no vehicles). Car hire is available on Waiheke Island
• A selection of food and beverages can be purchased on board. The vessels are fully licensed with both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages available for purchase
• Off-peak sailings are approx every 60 minutes. Peak sailings are approx every 30 minutes (early morning & evening sailings may vary)
• The Waiheke Ferry is wheelchair accessible
• Auckland to Waiheke Island return tickets do not include a stopover at Devonport. If you disembark the vessel at Devonport, an additional fare will apply for travel back to Auckland
• Nearest car park is the Downtown Car park located on the corner of Customs Street West & Albert Street
• Dogs travel free with any fare paying passenger. There is allocated seating on the external decks for those travelling with pets
• Bikes travel free with any fare paying passenger. Bike hooks can be found on the external rear decks of most ferries

Normal Retail Prices

• Adult: NZD$59.00
• Child (5-15yrs): NZD$26.00

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All prices shown in NZD$.

Latest Questions about Ferry - Waiheke Island (Auckland)

Is this ticket from Auckland to Waiheke Island

Hiya Bobette, Thanks so much for your question regarding the Waiheke Island Ferry from Auckland. Yes, this is a return ferry service from Auckland to Waiheke return.

Comment by: Everything New Zealand on 19th Jul 23 at 12:16

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Ticket information Ticket information

Buy a ticket from ticket machines before you board AT ferry services or tag on with your AT HOP card for your travel. 

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Single-trip paper tickets

Ferry fares and timetables  

Using AT HOP for travel  

Where to buy ferry tickets

Single trip paper tickets.

• You need to buy a ticket before you board or tag on with your AT HOP card for your travel. You will be required to present your ticket to staff as you board the ferry.
• This will provide you with a consistent experience across all services and minimise the need for cash transactions. 
• Ticket machines are located at ferry terminals across the network, except Northcote Point. If you are travelling to and from Te Onewa Northcote Point, you will need to purchase a paper ticket when you depart or arrive at the Downtown Ferry Terminal.
• Most machines accept cash, credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or Eftpos.
• Find out how to buy a single-trip paper ticket from a machine . 

Ferry fares

For information on ferry ticket prices and conditions, see Ferry fares.

Ferry timetables

For updated ferry schedules, see  Ferry timetables .

Using AT HOP for travel  

• You can use AT HOP on all Auckland Transport ferry services except Rakino and Island Direct's Waiheke Island ferry services. 
• Using an AT HOP card is cheaper and faster than cash fares. It provides at least a 25% discount off single trip cash fares, excluding the Fullers360 Waiheke ferry service.
• You can purchase AT HOP cards at ticket and top-up machines across Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland including the AT Customer Service Centre, Pier 1 at the Downtown Ferry Terminal.
• See AT HOP retailer and top-up machine locations . 
• AT HOP cards also provide an integrated fare, meaning you can transfer between AT buses, trains and ferries and pay just one fare for numerous zones you travel. Learn more about integrated fares .

Buy AT HOP card

If you already have an AT HOP card, find out how to top up your card . 

Bayswater, Te Onewa Northcote Point, Birkenhead, Half Moon Bay, Gulf Harbour, Beach Haven, Hobsonville Point, Pine Harbour, West Harbour ferry services

You can purchase single trip paper tickets for ferry services and top up your AT HOP card at

• Downtown Ferry Terminal
• Ticketing machines located across Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland

Devonport ferry service

Fullers360 10-trip FlexiPass and Fullers360 Monthly Passes are no longer available for purchase for Devonport services, and the Fullers360 ticket office at Devonport has closed

The Fullers360 single and return tickets for Devonport are no longer available for purchase prior to boarding. AT and Fullers360 staff are still located at the wharf.

You can purchase tickets for the Devonport ferry service from

• AT HOP ticket machine located at the Devonport wharf, near the toilets
• AT Customer Service Centres (CSC) at Pier 1 at the Downtown Ferry Terminal

Fullers360 Waiheke Island ferry service 

You can purchase tickets for the Fullers360 Waiheke ferry service from 

• Mātiatia Ferry Terminal
• Online on the Fullers website .

The new AT HOP Waiheke ferry monthly pass will save residents $58 when compared to the Fullers360 monthly pass.

The pass allows unlimited travel for one month on all Fullers360 Waiheke ferry services, and on all buses and trains that are in the same zone as the start or end of the ferry trip (including Waiheke Bus services). 

Travel on adjoining zone trains and buses in the city is only available on the AT HOP monthly pass, and is not available if travelling on Fullers360 tickets.

Get the Waiheke monthly pass

Island Direct Waiheke Island ferry service

You can purchase tickets for the Island Direct ferry service between the Downtown Auckland Ferry Terminal and Matiatia Wharf Waiheke Island online on the Island Direct website . The Island Direct ferry is 100% bookable at no added cost, giving customers the certainty to plan their journey in advance.

Where there is unsold inventory, passengers will also be able to ‘walk up’ and purchase a seat on Island Direct’s Waiheke Island ferry services. Sales will be cashless, paid by EFTPOS when boarding at either Matiatia Wharf (pier 3) or the Downtown Auckland Ferry Terminal (pier 13/14).

Fare on Island Direct is $27.50 one-way, or $55 return.

• AT HOP and SuperGold is currently not available for use on Island Direct’s Waiheke ferry service.
• Tickets must be purchased directly through the Island Direct website , or in-person when there is unsold inventory.
• Capacity is limited, so customers are encouraged to plan their journey in advance and book online.

Rakino ferry service

Rakino tickets can only be bought on-board and are not available on AT HOP. 

Rangitoto ferry service

Please call Fullers360 directly for fares and any other information on 09 3679111, or visit the Fullers360 website .

Please note AT HOP cards are not valid for travel on Rangitoto ferry services.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Looking for deals

Island Direct – The Waiheke Ferry – Heading into Matiatia, Waiheke Island

Te Waipiki in Matiatia Bay, Waiheke Island

Island Direct Crew

Island Direct crew at Pier 13, downtown Auckland Ferry Terminal

Te Waipiki docked at Pier 13, downtown Ferry Terminal, Auckland

Waiheke Island Ferry – Pre-book or Walk-up

Pier 13, 117 Quay Street, Downtown Ferry Terminal , Auckland Central , New Zealand .

Island Direct offers a premium ferry service to Waiheke Island from downtown Auckland. Book your tickets in advance or walk up and purchase a ticket from the Island Direct crew as you board.

Pricing and Conditions

Travel is subject to Island Direct GP Limited terms and conditions.

You may cancel a booking up to 24 hours prior to the sailing departure and you will receive a full refund. Any cancellation within 24 hours of the sailing departure is not eligible for a refund. You can modify your booking online before the scheduled departure time using the Manage Booking portal, free of charge.

Your Waiheke experience starts from the moment you board; enjoy a hassle-free journey to Waiheke Island with Island Direct. Reserve your seats in advance to travel at a set sailing time, simply arrive 10 minutes prior to departure – perfect for travellers with fixed itineraries. Or, walk-up and buy a ticket from the Island Direct crew as you board. Enjoy a showcase of local food and beverage from the fully-licensed onboard cafe; Passage Rock Wines, Heke Lager, Waiheke Gin Distillery, Daily Bread and Coffee Supreme.

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The content on this page was created by Waiheke Island Ferry – Pre-book or Walk-up

This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .