Where To Stay On Your Mid-Winter Escape

Winter on Waiheke is an underrated affair. With the summer crowds long gone, the island slides into a slower rhythm — misty mornings, crisp vineyard walks, and long lunches. It’s the kind of seasonal quiet that makes you breathe a little deeper. Whether you're craving a break, solitude, or just a stylish place to hole up with a bottle of red and a view, Waiheke delivers. Here’s our pick of where to stay for your mid-winter escape.

Stay Waiheke

If you're the type to travel with a Pinterest board, Stay Waiheke is your dream realised. This boutique accommodation collection offers some of the island’s most beautifully curated holiday homes. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with friends in tow, the variety here (from chic beach cottages to expansive cliffside villas) makes it easy to find your perfect winter base.

The Oyster Inn

The Oyster Inn is where island life meets laid-back luxury. Set in the heart of Oneroa village, it’s a favourite for good reason. The location is unbeatable, the rooms are coastal-cool and the restaurant is a destination in itself. Their boutique rooms feel like they’ve been lifted from the Amalfi Coast and gently landed on Waiheke. It's the ideal spot if you’re looking for a foodie weekend without ever leaving the village.

Mudbrick Cottages

Perched above the vines with views back to Auckland and beyond, Mudbrick’s cottages are iconic. You’ll feel a world away from the city as soon as you check in. Choose from selection of luxury cottages, offering fireplaces, sweeping vistas, and access to Mudbrick’s world-class dining. Come for the wine, stay for the kind of peace that makes you forget what day it is.

Onetangi Beach Apartments

For a more relaxed, family-friendly option, or if long, barefoot walks on an empty beach are your winter happy place, Onetangi Beach Apartments is your go-to. Located just steps from one of Waiheke’s most-loved beaches, this spot is all about location. The range of self-contained apartments makes it great for couples, groups, or anyone wanting to set their own pace. Bonus: you're walking distance to some of the most popular beachfront eateries and a short drive to some of the most famed vineyards, Te Motu and Tantalus.

Delamore Lodge

If you’re going all in on indulgence, Delamore Lodge is the island’s crown jewel. Built into the hillside with sweeping views over Owhanake Bay, this luxury lodge blends high-end hospitality with natural beauty. Think candlelit dinners, infinity pool and spa treatments – it’s romantic, restorative, and worth every decadent minute.

Getting There is Half the Fun

Waiheke might feel like another world, but it's only 40 minutes away from downtown Auckland with Island Direct. This winter, we’re making it even easier to escape with our special winter fares:

– $55 adult fares all day every day

– $110 family pass – return fares for two adults and two children, $170 in value.

With fewer crowds and more space to explore, winter is the ideal time to discover the island’s slower side. Whether you’re coming or going from the island, don’t leave without us.