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North Island

Start: Auckland
Duration: 6-8 Hours

The Auckland to Man O’ War Ferry is a scenic 90-minute journey through the eastern Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island’s remote north-eastern coast vineyard. Return transport aboard an air-conditioned vessel is included, with free time to enjoy wine tasting, beachfront dining, swimming or the optional Forest Flight zipline. The experience suits all ages; child fares apply to ages 5–15, while children under five travel free.

Relax Beside the Water at Man O’ War Bay

The ferry travels from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour via Rotoroa Island before arriving directly at Man O’ War Bay, avoiding the long road journey from Waiheke Island’s main ferry terminal. Once ashore, sample celebrated Waiheke wines at the beachfront cellar door or reserve a table for a leisurely meal overlooking the bay.

Families can enjoy the expansive lawn, playground and sheltered beach, while adventurous visitors can add the Forest Flight zipline through native forest. Alternatively, swim, picnic or simply unwind beside the water before boarding the return ferry to Auckland. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for wine tastings, restaurant dining and Forest Flight.

Highlights

  • Scenic return cruise through the eastern Hauraki Gulf to Man O’ War Bay.
  • Enjoy a glass or flight of Man O’ War’s iconic wines, from Bordeaux blends to rosé.
  • Dine at the beachfront Tasting Room overlooking the bay.
  • Relax on the lawn and enjoy refreshments from the Pop-up Lawn Bar during high season.
  • Experience Forest Flight (optional), with three tandem ziplines through towering native forest and connecting bush walks.
  • Swim in the calm, clear waters of Man O’ War Bay

May 2026 - 23 October 2026

Operates Wednesday–Sunday and public holidays.

Depart AucklandArrive Man O’ WarDepart Man O’ WarArrive AucklandTime at Man O’ War
9:15amApprox. 10:45am2:40pmApprox. 4:10pm3 hours 55 minutes

24 October 2026 - April 2027

Operating daysDepart AucklandArrive Man O’ WarDepart Man O’ WarArrive AucklandTime at Man O’ War
Monday–Thursday9:15amApprox. 10:45amApprox. 4:05pm5:35pm5 hours 20 minutes
Friday9:15amApprox. 10:45amApprox. 3:05pm4:35pm4 hours 20 minutes
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays9:15amApprox. 10:45amApprox. 4:05pm5:35pm5 hours 20 minutes
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays11:30amApprox. 1:00pmApprox. 4:05pm5:35pm3 hours 5 minutes

The ferry journey takes approximately 90 minutes each way and travels via Rotoroa Island.

  • Adults: 16 years and older
  • Children: 5-10 years old
  • Infants (free): 0-4 years
  • More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**
  • Within 24 hours: No refund

**Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

The ferry journey from Auckland Viaduct Harbour to Man O’ War takes approximately 90 minutes each way, travelling through the eastern Hauraki Gulf and via Rotoroa Island. The cruise itself is part of the experience, with views across the gulf and surrounding islands along the way. Once you arrive at Man O’ War Bay, you’ll have free time to enjoy the waterfront setting at your own pace before returning to Auckland.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy your time at Man O’ War, whether you prefer food, wine, swimming or simply relaxing by the water. Visit the beachfront cellar door for wine tasting, enjoy lunch overlooking the bay at the Tasting Room, or unwind on the expansive lawn. You can also swim at Man O’ War Bay or, for something more adventurous, take part in the optional Forest Flight zipline experience through native forest.

The standard Man O’ War Cruise includes return ferry travel and access to the beachfront cellar door and restaurant, but wine tastings are not included in the standard fare. Wine flights and tasting options can be arranged directly with Man O’ War, and advance bookings are recommended. The destination is known for its range of wines, making a tasting a popular way to experience the vineyard while enjoying views across Man O’ War Bay.

Yes, swimming at Man O’ War Bay is included as one of the activities available during your time ashore. The bay provides a beautiful coastal setting for cooling off after exploring the area or simply enjoying a relaxing afternoon beside the water. You can also spend time on the beachfront lawn, have a picnic or explore the surrounding destination. Remember to allow enough time to return to the departure point for your scheduled ferry back to Auckland.

Forest Flight is an optional adventure experience combining three dual ziplines with a guided walk through native forest. The approximately two-hour experience takes you through towering native bush and includes connecting boardwalks with coastal views. The Forest Flight option can be combined with the Man O’ War cruise and a meal at the Tasting Room through the Cruise, Zip & Beachfront Bites package. Participants must meet specific height and weight requirements, so check the requirements before booking.

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