Waiheke Island Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Auckland
Overview
This three-hour adventure on Waiheke Island combines three dual ziplines of about 200 metres each, a guided walk through native forest and a short mini-tour of the island. You glide side by side with a friend over the treetops and farmland, with views of the Hauraki Gulf. Optional pickup and drop-off from Matiatia Ferry Terminal is included, but the ferry from Auckland is not. It suits active travellers, couples, families with older children and friends, with departures at 11:15, 13:15 and 14:15.
Highlights
- Three dual ziplines of about 200 metres each over native forest
- Glide side by side with a partner or friend
- Guided forest walk with stories about plants, wildlife and history
- Waiheke mini-tour of beaches and scenic viewpoints on the way
- Views over the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island and Auckland
- Optional pickup and drop-off from Matiatia Ferry Terminal
- Three departures: 11:15, 13:15 and 14:15
Full Description
Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf
Waiheke Island lies in the Hauraki Gulf, about forty minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland, and is known for its beaches, coastal walks, galleries and relaxed island life. Visitors searching for a day trip to Waiheke Island from Auckland often want something more active than a beach day, and this zipline adventure provides it.
The ferry is not included in this option, so book your crossing separately and arrive at Matiatia Ferry Terminal before your tour. Optional pickup and drop-off from the terminal is included, which saves you finding the adventure park on your own. Allow enough time for the ferry connection when choosing your departure.
The dual ziplines over native forest
The heart of the tour is three dual ziplines, each about 200 metres long. Each line is built for two people, so you glide side by side, with your partner or friend beside you, over a canopy of native trees and open farmland. After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, your guide sends you off one line at a time.
Anyone asking how scary the Waiheke Island zipline is will find it is a smooth and controlled glide rather than a drop, and most people enjoy it after the first few seconds. Each line gives a different view, and on a clear day you can see Auckland, Rangitoto and the Gulf. Everyone travels independently, on their own harness.
The native forest walk and local stories
After the third line, an interpretive walk leads you back through native bush to the visitor centre. It takes about twenty-five minutes, on a well-made track. Your guides share stories about the plants and wildlife of the forest and about the Māori and European history of the island.
The walk is a gentle counterpoint to the excitement of the ziplines, and it gives you time to enjoy the birdsong and the shade. Closed-toe shoes are required, and in winter you should bring warm clothes and a waterproof jacket for the track. In summer, bring sunscreen and a water bottle.
The Waiheke mini-tour and how the day works
On the way to the adventure park, a short mini-tour shows you some of Waiheke's beaches and scenic spots, giving context before your zipline experience. It is a chance to see the island's coastline and to hear about local life from your guide.
There are weight requirements of at least 30 kilograms and no more than 125 kilograms. Anyone aged 15 or under must zip with a paying adult, and guests under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign the disclosure form. Non-zipping spectators are not permitted. A phone attachment for filming is not included, so film on your own equipment if you have it.
Itinerary
- Ferry to WaihekeTake your ferry from Auckland to Matiatia (booked separately) and arrive before your departure time.
- Pickup at MatiatiaOptional pickup from Matiatia Ferry Terminal, or meet at the adventure park as confirmed in your voucher.
- Waiheke mini-tourA short scenic drive with commentary on the way to the site.
- Safety briefing and fittingMeet your guides, get your harness and learn the zipline basics.
- Three dual ziplinesGlide side by side over forest and farmland, about 200 metres per line.
- Guided forest walkWalk through native bush for about 25 minutes back to the visitor centre, then optional drop-off.
What's included
- 3 dual zipline flights of about 200 metres each
- Guided forest walk
- Waiheke mini-tour
- Optional pick-up and drop-off from Matiatia Ferry Terminal
Not included
- Ferry costs to and from Auckland
- Food and drinks
- Phone attachment for filming on the ziplines
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- People weighing under 30 kg or over 125 kg
- Guests with heart conditions, concussion or other medical conditions that make ziplining risky
Meeting point
Pickup is from Matiatia Ferry Terminal on Waiheke Island, or you can meet at the adventure park, as confirmed in your booking voucher. Departures are at 11:15, 13:15 and 14:15. The ferry from Auckland is not included, so plan your crossing to arrive with time to spare.
Important information
- The ferry to and from Auckland is not included; book it separately.
- Participants must weigh at least 30 kg and no more than 125 kg.
- Anyone aged 15 or under must zip with a paying adult; guests under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign the disclosure form.
- Wear closed-toe, secure shoes and comfortable clothes; bring warm clothing and a waterproof jacket in winter.
- Bring sunscreen and a water bottle in summer.
- Non-zipping spectators are not permitted, and there is an element of risk in any adventure activity.
- Food and drinks are not included, and the phone attachment for filming is not included.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the Waiheke zipline adventure cost?
The price depends on adults or children. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for the option and passenger types once you choose your date.
Is the ferry included?
No. The ferry from Auckland to Waiheke and back is not included, so book it separately. Pickup from Matiatia Ferry Terminal is included as an option.
Is pickup included?
Optional pickup and drop-off from Matiatia Ferry Terminal on Waiheke Island is included. Your voucher confirms the details.
How long is the tour?
About three hours, including the mini-tour, the ziplines and the forest walk.
Is it suitable for children?
For children who meet the weight limit of at least 30 kg. Anyone aged 15 or under must zip with a paying adult, and the booking panel lists the passenger types.
What should I wear and bring?
Closed-toe shoes, comfortable clothes, sunscreen and water in summer, and warm layers and a waterproof jacket in winter.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Often yes, depending on free spots. Choose your date and departure in the booking panel.
How long are the ziplines?
There are three dual ziplines, each about 200 metres long, with a forest walk after the last line.
Can I bring my phone on the zipline?
A phone attachment for filming is not included. Ask your guide about what you can carry, and keep loose items secured.
Can non-zipping friends come along?
Non-zipping spectators are not permitted at the site.
