Matiatia Headland walk: Waiheke views straight from the ferry

Matiatia makes it possible to step off the ferry and head into a coastal walk without a long transfer. The headland route combines regenerating bush, old pōhutukawa and views across the inner Gulf.

Where it is

Matiatia foreshore, beside Waiheke’s ferry arrival area.

Follow the route

1. Follow the Matiatia foreshore, cross the bridge at the end of the beach and climb through Te Atawhai Whenua.
2. Follow the public coastal walkway around the headland towards Te Miro Bay.
3. At Te Miro Bay, turn inland to Nick Johnstone Drive, then right along the road. Return to the Matiatia lookout and descend the way you came up.

Route map

Orange highlights the coastal walkway. The return follows Nick Johnstone Drive and the Matiatia approach described above. Tap the map to enlarge it.

What to expect

This is a proper hilly walk, with steps and a few steep sections. Much of the headland is privately owned, so keep to the public route. The best pauses are the open viewpoints back across Matiatia Channel and towards the nearby islands.

Getting ready

Use the ferry arrival area to organise yourself before setting off. Council says there is no drinking water or public toilet on the route. Book or check your return ferry and allow a buffer for the final descent.

Before you go: Wear shoes with good grip throughout the year. Take care on the road section and follow the public-path signs past private properties.

What I’d bring

I’d carry water, a snack and a light raincoat, with shoes I’m happy to get muddy. I’d keep the ferry details handy and turn the walk into a relaxed outing rather than trying to squeeze it between tight sailings.

Sorting footwear? Our hiking-boot fit guide explains what to check before buying.

Sources and credits

Sources checked 26 September 2026. Official walking information and map.

Aerial imagery: LINZ and Imagery Basemap contributors, CC BY 4.0. Track overlay: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.