Waiheke Island Hop On Hop Off
If you want the freedom to explore Waiheke without worrying about driving, the Fullers360 Explorer Buses are one of the easiest ways to get around. With hop-on, hop-off routes covering the island’s highlights, you can set your own pace while visiting vineyards, beaches, and attractions.
Waiheke Explorer Buses & Tours
Waiheke Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Perfect for first-time visitors, the Waiheke Explorer Bus links all the must-see spots across the island.
Key Details
Departs from: Matiatia Ferry Terminal (meets every Fullers360 sailing)
Stops at: 16 key destinations, including top vineyards, beaches, art galleries, and cafés
Ticket validity: All-day pass – hop on and off as much as you like
Onboard commentary: Live guide with stories about Waiheke’s history, wine, and culture
Book your tickets through Fullers360 Explorer Bus.
Waiheke Western Explorer
Head off the beaten track with the Western Explorer, which focuses on boutique wineries, adventure activities, and scenic lookouts on the western side of the island.
Highlights
Flexible travel – hop on and off at western vineyards, attractions, and beaches
Boutique wineries – stops include Tantalus Estate, Stonyridge Vineyard, and Te Motu
Lookouts – take in sweeping views from Trig Hill, one of the island’s highest points
Adventure activities – EcoZip Adventures offers ziplining and forest walks
Beaches & trails – visit Palm Beach or explore coastal walking tracks
Tickets available as bus-only or bundled with a Fullers360 ferry for savings.
Waiheke Eastern Explorer
For something truly different, the Eastern Explorer uncovers Waiheke’s hidden gems on the far east side of the island. This route is a favourite for wine lovers and history buffs.
Highlights
Flexible travel – hop on and off at eastern destinations at your own pace
Vineyard visits – Man O’ War, Passage Rock, and Awaroa Organic Winery
Scenic drives – winding coastal roads through vineyards and farmland
Historic sites – explore the WWII tunnels at Stony Batter Historic Reserve
Distillery stop – visit Waiheke Distilling Co. for handcrafted spirits
Dining options – enjoy food and wine at stunning east-end venues
Tickets can be purchased as bus-only or combined with a Fullers360 ferry.
Waiheke Island Tours & Experiences
If you’d rather join a fully guided tour, Fullers360 also offers curated packages:
Taste of Waiheke – a classic tour with tastings at top wineries plus a vineyard lunch
Vineyard Explorer – visit three renowned wineries with transport included
Zip, Wine & Dine – combine ziplining at EcoZip with premium wine tastings
Find out more at Fullers360 Experiences.
Not sure which Explorer Bus is right for you? Each route offers a different way to experience Waiheke — from classic highlights to hidden gems on the eastern and western sides. Use the table below to compare your options at a glance.
Compare Waiheke Explorer Buses
| Feature | Waiheke Explorer | Western Explorer | Eastern Explorer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Departure Point | Matiatia Ferry Terminal (meets every Fullers360 sailing) | Matiatia Ferry Terminal | Matiatia Ferry Terminal |
| Main Focus | Island highlights – beaches, cafés, and vineyards | Western vineyards, lookouts, adventure activities | Eastern vineyards, distillery, historic sites |
| Stops | 16 key destinations across Waiheke | Tantalus Estate, Stonyridge, Te Motu, Trig Hill Lookout, EcoZip, Palm Beach | Man O’ War, Passage Rock, Awaroa Organic Winery, Waiheke Distilling Co., Stony Batter |
| Ideal For | First-time visitors, general sightseeing | Wine lovers, adventure seekers, scenic views | Wine enthusiasts, history buffs, those wanting to explore beyond the main routes |
| Ticket Validity | All-day hop-on hop-off pass | All-day hop-on hop-off pass | All-day hop-on hop-off pass |
| Extras | Live tour guide commentary | Self-paced with flexible stops | Self-paced with flexible stops |
| Add-ons | Can be bundled with Fullers360 ferry tickets | Can be bundled with Fullers360 ferry tickets | Can be bundled with Fullers360 ferry tickets |
