The Island Life
by Becky Tappin
For some, Auckland just isn’t cutting it as a city anymore.
A sizeable number of native Aucklanders are seeking satisfaction from greener pastures - a small island by the name of Waiheke, in particular.
So why is Waiheke Island becoming an increasingly popular place to live?
After visiting the island a couple of weeks ago, I can see why this quaint little place is a much more attractive option than the big smoke of Auckland.
For a start, it is only a 45 minute ferry ride from Waiheke to downtown Auckland.
The island has several beaches, and with a small population there is always enough room for everybody to stretch themselves out on the sand for a sunbathe.
Also, there are never any traffic jams on the island - with most parts of the island having its own shops and necessities, cars aren’t an absolute necessity.
Peace and quiet is a huge factor in people choosing to jump on board the Waiheke bandwagon.
“It’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Auckland, but is still close enough to family if we need or want to get there, and the ferry ride is far nicer than a commute by car,” says Chris Thomson, a resident of Oneroa.
You will experience kindness on Waiheke that you don’t find in Auckland any more. Waikeke folk still greet you on the street, and give way to you on the roads, help you out if you need it and generally care about each other’s wellbeing.
Community still means something on Waiheke. Small markets take place every Saturday fon the island which feature locally made goods and products. Typically, the locals all end up buying each other’s products in order to support each other.
Waiheke is also home to a number of high quality vineyards and oliveries, and has been compared to southern France in terms of it’s gourmet food and wines. With a comparison like that, the city of Auckland seems flat in comparisson.
After just one weekend over there, it is obvious to see why this place is drawing many city dwellers into the realms of the island life.
Viva Waiheke!