Make your own way to Auckland and check-in to your trip accommodation any time after 2:00pm. The city is New Zealand's largest, both in area and population and hence is often mistakenly thought of as the country's capital. Spend some time exploring the gardens and open spaces of The Domain, wander through the fascinating War Memorial Museum for a glimpse into Maori history and culture, visit the Sky Tower for spectacular 360 degree views, visit an art gallery, cruise the harbour, wander the foreshore or explore the shops. Food lovers will be spoilt for choice with a multitude of cafes, restaurants and bars to suit all budgets and tastes.

Meals:  Nil

Take the 9:00am ferry this morning from Auckland to Waiheke Island. On arrival at the Matiatia wharf, your luggage will be transferred to your trip accommodation so that you can commence walking right away. (You will need to be prepared with your requirements for the day already packed in your daypack.) The walk today follows the northern coastline around headlands, up and down hills, beside secluded bays and along beautiful sand beaches. Enjoy stunning views of Hauraki Gulf islands and the Coromandel Peninsula and take a refreshing swim at one of several beaches along the way. Pass through reserves where native vegetation regeneration is underway and by vineyards that produce award-winning wines before reaching the white sands of Onetangi Beach. The longest beach on the island, this is where you will find your accommodation for the next three nights. Settle in and relax.

Meals:  B,L,D

After a short transfer this morning, begin walking from historic Rocky Bay. The trail is undulating and is both on and off road, weaving up from the shores of Rocky Bay through a loop around Whakanewha Regional Park containing forested streams, significant ancient pa sites (fortified Maori settlements) and important dotterel nesting grounds. Wander through small communities tucked away in the bush, visit a sculpture park (own expense), and take in the the scenic path back toward your base through forest pathways, coastline and pretty bays of the south west of the island. Along the way, taste some signature Waiheke wines at Stony ridge Vineyards (own expense). Walk back to Onetangi at leisure to round out the day. It is possible to shorten the day by not visiting Whakanewha Regional Park; this option involves more road walking. An additional winery can also be added (tastings own expense) if desired.

Meals:  B,L,D

Although longer in duration, today's walk starts from your accommodation and is a gentle gradient for much of the day. Mostly following ridgelines inland a little and alongside the road, superb views abound. Exploring the remote eastern end of the island you will encounter fewer inhabitants, places of historical significance, rural vistas, wildlife corridors, wetlands and isolated beaches. Take an optional detour to historic Stony Batter Reserve (own expense) before taking time to admire the white sands of Man-o-War Bay and the nearby stands of magnificent kauri trees. Enjoy a swim and a picnic lunch at the beach and maybe some wine tasting (own expense). Please check winery opening times, some venues may be closed on weekdays and/or outside of the peak season. There is much history in this area from Maori settlement to logging operations. Continuing to the south east corner of the island, there are amazing views and some fascinating stories about the smaller offshore islands you can see. At the Orapiu wharf, you will be met and transferred back to your accommodation for a final night.

Meals:  B,L,D

Enjoy a leisurely pace for your final day on the island, either browsing the Community Art Gallery in Oneroa and nearby sculpture parks, exploring Oneroa Village (the main settlement on the island) with its cafes, boutique shops and galleries, or simply relaxing on the beach with a book and a picnic. You will need to make your way to the Matiatia ferry wharf for your 4.00pm return journey to Auckland, where your luggage will be waiting. Trip arrangements end on arrival in Auckland.

Meals:  B,L