It’s mid-June and after a week of early starts, Auckland city traffic, and long days that seem to blur into the dark, it was such a relief to finally escape. There’s something magical about leaving the mainland behind and arriving to the sound of waves and the smell of salt in the air.
We pulled into Onetangi just after dark, settled into the beachfront apartment, and let out that first deep breath you don’t realise you’ve been holding all week.
The next morning, the island delivered one of those crisp, clear winter days that make you glad to be alive. The beach was stunning — golden morning light stretching across the sand, the tide high and the horizon clear. We wandered slowly along the shoreline, watching a determined local bootcamp crew power through their squats, planks, and burpees while a few spirited dogs zig-zagged around them, clearly living their best lives.
A quick trip to the Ostend markets was the perfect way to ease into the day. I should have had a massage (next time!) — but instead, we treated ourselves to a seriously good roti from Ritual. Warm, flaky, and just the right amount of spice to fend off the chill.
Back at the apartments, it’s been lovely to meet this weekend’s guests — a cheerful family reunion in one apartment, and a couple from Auckland enjoying a midwinter getaway to celebrate their new Gold Card (free ferry trips and coastal walks — what’s not to love?).
My husband took these lovely pictures – which he described as warm but moody! Apparently just like me 😂. He’ll keep!
There’s a quiet kind of joy that comes with winter on Waiheke — the perfect backdrop for a romantic Waiheke winter getaway or a peaceful solo escape. Fewer crowds, more space to breathe, and the perfect excuse to slow down and just be.
With our sharp winter promotions, there’s never been a better time to plan your Waiheke winter getaway. Head to www.waihekeisland.co.nz to book direct and enjoy exclusive offers — fewer people, more peace, and the beach all to yourself.
We’d love to welcome you.