Little Oneroa Beach.
This fun playground is right at the beach, and is covered, so is good for super hot days. The dairy is right across the road for coffees and ice blocks, there is a fish and chip shop and also a pizza van onsite for delicious wood-fired pizza picnic lunches.
Island Gelato.
Always a favourite stop. They also have sorbet, great for kids with dairy allergies.
Wild on Waiheke.
Something for everyone. A vineyard, brewery, wood-fired pizzas, playground, archery and clay-bird shooting. Oh, and giant chess.
The rope swing at Onetangi beach.
Drive down to the beach, and turn left. It’s about the 4th pohutakawa on your right. The kids climb up into the giant pohutakawa and are passed the rope, and then swing down from a great height. Lots of fun for all ages (and lots of good photo opportunities) – if you’re brave enough.
Barbeque
Barbeque at any of the free barbeque spots on the island, including Onetangi beach and Palm Beach.
Walk to the top of the hill in Onetangi Sports Park.
Lots of paths up and down, and a great view from the top.
Walk to the Pirates Platform
Found on the western end of Onetangi Beach. It can only be accessed at low tide, and you must walk around a few little bays to get there. One must have a sense of adventure to find it.
Horse tours.
Ride through some beaches and pretty countryside, great for kids of all ages.
Electric Bikes and Kayaking.
If your kids can ride a normal bike, they’ll be able to ride an electric bike. Kids over 10 can go on their own bikes, and younger kids are best to go on a tandem. Bikes are also available with child seats. On a double-kayak you may be able to take 2 adults, with a small child in the middle.
Fishing.
Either off the wharf or rocks, or with one of the charter companies on the island. One of the charter guides finishes the day by banging the side of the boat with his knife, and calling “his girls”, some 12 foot bronze whaler sharks, as he guts the day’s catch.
