A road trip for retirees
Waiheke Island here I come
It has been a long time since I did a road trip, in fact at least ten years. It was only for a week, and it was when I was at cooking school, and we had a week off. One of my fellow students Liz and I headed off from our Christchurch base with no plan in mind, just to see where we ended up!
It was one of the most fun adventures I have ever done. We stopped at interesting roadside stalls along the way, we dined at cafes and restaurants, we laughed, drove in the snow, and had the music up loud!
On my “to do” list when I retire, is another road trip, and it will be to Waiheke Island. Why there you might ask!
So many people have told me of their wonderful stay on Waiheke Island and because I know very little about this place, I did some homework. I am now even more keen to spend a week relaxing, sipping the local wine, dining at the island’s restaurants and generally relaxing with a good book.
Waiheke Island is an easy 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland City. Upon arrival, buses and taxis will be waiting to take you to your destination. Rental cars are also available as a great option to explore the island.
If you are an adventurous type, you will enjoy hitting some of the mountain bike tracks, sea kayaking. fishing, surfing or even going sailing.
For me, I would rather take the artistic trail and visit local artists who indulge in glass blowing, sculptures, painting, and woodwork. Then there are the wine or island tours and I know I would enjoy a sightseeing flight over the island in a helicopter.
I would be quite happy staying at a beachside cottage but if you would like something more luxurious there are beach front villas, luxury homes or try something different like an ecotourism chalet.
The many island wineries are perfect for culinary indulgence. You’ll find a range of options from food pairings to platters and casual lunch options, to gourmet meals at award-winning restaurants.
Waiheke is best known for its pristine beaches, and its warm microclimate makes it the perfect swimming spot.
Oneroa Bay and Little Oneroa sit side-by-side and are within walking distance of the main village. Little Oneroa is a perfect place to spend the day, with BBQs, a children’s playground, and a sprawling grassy area.
Onetangi Beach features 2.5km of beautiful white sand, plus convenient bars, and restaurants at the water’s edge.
Well, I am sold on a road trip to Waiheke Island, whether it is on my own or with friends. . . just need to find the time to retire!