On Friday, we rode the 40-minute ferry to Waiheke Island, the most densely populated (& very hilly) island off Auckland in the Hauraki Gulf.  It is a vacation destination with 8,500 full-time residents swelling to 50,000+ in the summer; and, the second. largest island after the Great Barrier Island.  Waiheke Island is 36 square miles and almost 12 miles long with almost 83 miles of gorgeous coastline!  Only about 1/3 of the island is readily accessible.  The ocean-front/view home prices are astronomical like certain areas of the U.S.  The island is so picturesque with acres of sheep and a few cattle crazing by the  ocean along with very attractive homes that are part of the many vineyards on the island.

Art of all types is very strong on the island and sculptures are everywhere – a bi-annual sculpture festival draws 40,000 visitors.  While the island is primarily filled with “holiday homes” (small vacation properties), there are a growing number of larger homes of all types.  In addition, the island is home to 25 vineyards.  Wine tours abound.

After a  2-hour bus tour of the island, we chose an oceanside restaurant in the main town of Oneroa.  It was  delightful.  David, once again,  had a beautiful lamb dish.   We decided to walk back to Matiata Harbor (the ferry) on one of the many trails noted on the tourist map.  This very scenic 5+ mile trek (“tramping” is the local term) led us through forests, up hills, along the beach, through horse & sheep filled fields (often climbing over fences) and along steep cliffs above the ocean.  Some of the trails were small paths while other parts had stairs, bridges and gravel paths.  It was an absolutely spectacular treck and almost as beautiful as the hike around Cap Ferrat in the French Riviera.  It was a truly memorable day!