Spend a day learning about NZ’s rich history and heritage whilst journeying across Waiheke’s landscape.
You will be greeted by your local guide at the wharf upon your arrival. First we will head up to Matiatia headland to orientate ourselves in the Hauraki Gulf, take in the stunning sea, island and city views and learn about the arrival of Māori to Waiheke Island and the history of their occupation.
You will visit pristine white sand beaches, forests and lookout spots and hear the history and stories of the places you visit and see. You will visit the focal point of the Māori community on Waiheke, learn about marae protocol, the significance and importance of carving and traditional tattooing, the revitalisation of Māori language and the impact of colonisation on Māori people.
Plan your private Waiheke history & heritage tour
Ready to book your private Waiheke history & heritage tour? Choose your date and guests in the booking panel on this page, browse all our Waiheke tours, read about getting to Waiheke Island, or contact us and we will tailor the day to you. Not sure which experience suits your group? Our Waiheke Island team is happy to help.
Learn about the arrival of Māori in NZ and specifically on Waiheke
Learn about the indigenous people who made Waiheke their home
Learn about the impact of colonisation on Māori
Learn about the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi and how it acts as a foundation for NZ’s development today
Learn about what has happened in recent times – the revitalisation of the Māori language, treaty settlements, the growth of the Māori economy and how the Treaty is being interpreted and applied to the modern NZ context
Visit the local Marae to learn about its importance to the community and Marae protocol
Visit beaches and a local vineyard and taste the wine
Walk to the summit of a pā site and see evidence of middens, kumara pits and fortified terraces
Enjoy a bush walk and learning about the traditional use of plants in Rongoa – Maori medicine
Your day
How the day unfolds
Meeting your guideWhen leaving the ferry, look for your guide who will be standing on your left just before you enter the Ferry Terminal. Your guide will be holding a Terra & Tide sign
Starts9:45amFerry Wharf in Matiatia
Finishes4:00pmFerry Wharf in Matiatia
Essentials
Group size2 – 12
RecommendedAll fitness levels, ages 18+ if drinking alcohol
What’s included
Everything taken care of
Fantastic scenic walk with expert guiding and interpretation
Recommended forAll fitness levels, ages 18+ if drinking alcoholAll fitness levels, ages 18+ if drinking alcoholAll fitness levels, ages 8+ (18+ if drinking alcohol)All fitness levels, more suitable for ages 8+
IncludesFantastic scenic walk with expert guiding and interpretation, Admission to all venues, Wine or olive oil tastingExpert local guide, 2 wine tastings, Olive oil tastingExpert local guide, Pick up from accommodation • for those who require it, 2 wine tastings and hosted Stonyridge LaRose experienceExpert local guide, Pickup from your accommodation if required, Admission to all venues
