Last updated October 2026
The Matietie Walk is a rough coastal walk through the Matietie Historic Reserve on Waiheke Island, starting near Matiatia Wharf where the passenger ferry berths. DOC grades it Advanced and allows about 55 minutes for the 3.1 km track.
The first section is only passable 1 hour either side of low tide, and when we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s track page noted a slip further along with a diversion in place. The track is mostly unformed, with steep, rough or muddy sections, and DOC says tramping or hiking boots are required.
Track Facts
Tracks can close at short notice for slips, storm damage or maintenance. Check DOC's current alerts for Matietie Walk on the day you walk.
Current alerts on DOCTrack facts and line: Crown Copyright, Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026, CC BY 4.0. Elevation: LINZ (LiDAR), CC BY 4.0.
Practical Information
- Start
- Near Matiatia Wharf, Waiheke Island (passenger ferry terminal)
- Distance from the city
- About 22 km from Auckland
- Walking time
- 55 minutes
- Track length
- 3.1 km
- Grade
- Advanced
- Tides
- First section passable only 1 hour either side of low tide
- Dogs
- No dogs
- Track type
- Tramping track (mostly unformed, marked with poles)
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Status
- Open when checked on 18 October 2026. Check DOC before you go.
About Matietie Walk
The walk follows the coast through Matietie Historic Reserve from close to Matiatia Wharf, so it is easy to reach straight off the ferry. It links with other signposted public walks on Waiheke.
The first stretch can only be walked around low tide, within an hour either side. Beyond that, the track is mostly unformed, with markers and poles to follow and steep, rough or muddy sections. DOC says it suits people of average fitness who are properly equipped.
Because it starts at the ferry, the walk fits neatly into a day on Waiheke, provided you time it with the tide.
Slip, Diversion and Rockfall
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s track page noted a small slip on the track with a diversion in place; negotiate it with care. Take care when passing below cliffs, as rockfalls can happen at any time.
Planning Your Trip
Check tide times before you go and plan to reach the first section within an hour of low tide. Wear tramping or hiking boots. Check DOC before you go for any alerts and tell someone your plans. Plan My Walk is a handy way to plan and share your trip.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Matietie Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
LINZ tide predictions: official tide times for New Zealand ports.
Plan My Walk: plan your trip, check the forecast and share your intentions with someone you trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Matietie Walk take?
DOC allows about 55 minutes for the 3.1 km track.
Where does it start?
Near Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island, where the passenger ferry berths.
When can I walk it?
The first section is only passable 1 hour either side of low tide, so check tide times first.
How hard is it?
DOC grades it Advanced. The track is mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections.
What footwear do I need?
DOC says tramping or hiking boots are required.
Are dogs allowed?
No. DOC lists the walk as no dogs.
Are there any hazards?
When we checked on 18 October 2026, DOC’s track page noted a slip with a diversion, and it warns of possible rockfall below cliffs.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.