This New Initiative Will Set You Up With 'Free' Accomodation on Waiheke Island

An escape to Waiheke feels miles away from the bustle of central Auckland, though it's only a quick ferry ride from downtown. It's an island of varying landscape, with the turquoise-blue waters of the coast giving way to rolling green hills inland. This gives visitors endless options, too — from bushwalks and beaches to art galleries and, most notably, the plentiful wineries on offer.

There's no better time to explore our very own wine island. From Friday, 19 to Sunday, 21 June, more than 70 Waiheke homeowners and accomodation partners will be donating their houses and hotel rooms to drive money back into the local economy.

Those taking part in the On The House initiative will see the two-night rental fee from their select accomodation provider converted into 'Waiheke dollars', for goods and services redeemable across the island. All you need to do is decided whether you're after a boutique vineyard retreat, a luxury apartment just a stone's throw from the village, or a spacious lodge with views across the Hauraki Gulf. Then, once your booking and spending credit amount have been confirmed, you'll have a maximum of ten merchants to choose from.

The 'Waiheke dollars' can be used for countless experiences across the weekend, including wine tasting at local vineyards, adventure activities like ziplining, renting a vehicle to explore the island, playing golf, or shopping. See the full list of merchants here.

For more information about On the House and to make a booking, visit onthehouse.nz. The deadline to book all properties is June 12.

Image: Miles Holden.