Fly the Hauraki Gulf, explore Great Barrier’s rugged coast and finish with a premium wine tasting on Waiheke — all in a convenient half-day loop from Auckland. Expect aerial drama, short guided walks and a three-course vineyard lunch with sweeping views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The propeller’s hum shrinks into background noise as the Auckland skyline unravels beneath you, a mosaic of harbours, headlands and the glassy scars of volcanoes. Out the airplane window the Hauraki Gulf stretches like a challenge — islands dotting its surface, white beaches pointing like commas. This is the tone of the Island Hopper: a half-day of short scenic flights, a guided walk on Great Barrier (Aotea), then a glide over the Coromandel to Waiheke for premium wine and a three-course meal at the island’s highest vineyard. You end the day dropped at Matiatia for a ferry back to the mainland — the ocean nudging you home.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for light to moderate fitness; involves short periods of walking on uneven ground
Wildlife
History
Māori used these islands as seasonal fishing and trading stations; Rangitoto’s volcanic cone is one of Auckland’s youngest geological features, erupted only several centuries ago.
Conservation
Great Barrier has ongoing predator-control and restoration projects; Waiheke vineyards increasingly adopt low-impact practices — follow local biosecurity and stay on marked tracks to reduce disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Auckland Region | Multi Island Hopper Package Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Confirm pickup location
Pickup is provided within 3 km of the Auckland CBD — specify your hotel or pickup point when booking to avoid delays.
Dress in layers
Flights and coastal breezes can be cool even on warm days; a light windproof layer and closed-toe shoes make short walks more comfortable.
Bring motion-sickness medicine
Short flights plus a ferry crossing can trigger seasickness for some; take preventative medication if you’re sensitive.
Reserve dietary needs early
The three-course vineyard lunch can be subject to seasonal availability — notify the operator of allergies or preferences when booking.
Windproof jacket
Blocks coastal gusts during flights and on exposed walking tracks.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on sandy beaches and gravel tracks during the Great Barrier tour.
Sunscreen and hat
Protects skin during open-air flights, vineyard lunches and coastal walks.
summer
Compact camera or phone with polarizer
Captures aerial coastlines and vineyard panoramas while reducing glare from water.