Wine and dine your way through some of Auckland's most awarded vineyards, unwind on remote beaches, trek through regenerated bush and spot native species, squeal with delight as you soar on ziplines, or sail out into the emerald waters in search of marine life.
The islands scattered around Auckland's Hauraki Gulf will make you feel like you're miles away from the city's bustle. Thanks to Fullers360, these islands are at your fingertips only a short ferry ride away.
Rangitoto
With its characteristic symmetrical cone and prime location, Rangitoto is the island that best represents Auckland. It is the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic system, emerging abruptly from the sea about 600 years ago.
The island is a favourite destination for hikers and day-trippers alike, just a short ferry sailing across the Waitematā harbour from downtown Auckland.
Hike up to the summit for breath-taking views (about a two-hour roundtrip). Water sports enthusiasts can embark on a guided sea kayaking excursion to the island in time for sunset and return beneath the stars.
How to get there:
Rangitoto Island sailings depart daily from downtown Auckland with some sailings traveling via Devonport. Sailings are 25-minutes each way and you can walk from Rangitoto Island to Motutapu Island which are connected by a causeway.
Tickets:
Buy your Fullers360 ferry ticket online and save.
- Adult return - $43
- Child* return - $22
- Family** return - $114
What do I need:
You'll need a good pair of shoes, sunscreen, hat, and be ready to walk for at least half a day (4-5 hours) to visit Rangitoto Island. Make sure to bring your lunch and plenty of water as there are no shops on the island. Rangitoto is a DOC-protected pest-free island, so remember to take all of your food and rubbish back home with you.
Waiheke Island
The Hauraki Gulf’s crown jewel, Waiheke Island, is known for its world-class wineries, immaculate beaches, olive groves, walking trails, and art galleries.
You'll feel like you're a world away even though it's only a 40-minute ferry journey from downtown Auckland.
Visit for the day or stay longer; there are accommodation options for any budget.
Waiheke is the ultimate vacation destination. Glide through native bush on a zipline, practice archery, and laser clay bird shooting, stroll along coastal clifftop walks, relax on white sand beaches, or wine and dine your way through several of the award-winning restaurants. Waiheke has it all!
How to get there:
Waiheke Island sailings depart daily from downtown Auckland with some sailings traveling via Devonport. Sailings are 40 minutes each way and pass by the gorgeous islands and the coast of Auckland. Summer is the busy season for Waiheke Island, so be sure to check out Fullers360’s summer travel tips before your trip so you can make the most of your time island-side.
Tickets:
Buy your Fullers360 ferry ticket online and save. Better yet travel off-peak and save even more! Simply travel from Auckland to Waiheke Island from 1pm until the last sailing of the day and travel back from Waiheke Island to Auckland from 7pm until the last sailing of the day.
- Adult return - $46
- Adult off-peak return - $35
- Child* return - $23
- Family** return - $122.50
More information about Waiheke and ticketing options.
How to get around:
There are plenty of ways to travel around Waiheke. You can either hire a private vehicle, bike or e-bike and explore at your own pace or catch the Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus which stops at 17 stops around the island including Oneroa and Onetangi village as well as many different vineyards, walking trails, and art galleries. Click here for more information and timetables.
Or you can take all of the admin out of organising your trip and book one of Fullers360 experiences and tours.
Rotoroa Island
A 75-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland takes you to Rotoroa Island, a DOC protected island known for its arts, rich history, and conservation efforts.
Visit the award-winning Museum and Exhibition Centre, explore the island's network of trails and lookout points, or just unwind with a soak at one of the island's four lovely beaches. For those wanting a fully immersive experience book a guided walk with Rotoroa Rangers where you’ll be led through regenerating native forest teeming with wildlife.
How to get there:
Rotoroa Island sailings depart on weekends but dates and times do vary with the tides, be sure to check Fullers360’s ferry timetables when planning your trip. Sailings are 75-minutes each way from downtown Auckland or catch a 10-minute ferry from Waiheke Island's Orapiu wharf.
Tickets:
Buy your Fullers360 ferry ticket online and save.
- Adult return - $60
- Child* return - $36
- Family** return - $172
More information and to buy ticket.
How to get around:
Visit Rotoroa Island for a full day or a half day, depending on your preferences. A full day visit to the island will allow you to see everything the island has to offer, including walking trails, the Museum and Exhibition Centre, as well as multiple beaches, art installations, plus time to go bird watching. However, a half-day visit will still give you plenty of time to explore the island and enjoy a swim and picnic.
Rotoroa is a DOC protected pest-free island, so remember to take all of your food and rubbish back home with you.
*Child fare applies to children aged 2-15 years old. Children under two years old travel free if they travel on the lap of a full paying adult.
**Family is two adults and two children.