Terra and Tide — Local services in Waiheke

If you're lucky enough to spend a day on Waiheke Island, do yourself a favor and go with Terra & Tide—and if you can, ask for Justine. My husband Phil and I had the good fortune of touring with her yesterday, and I have to say: it was one of those rare experiences where you walk away not just wowed by the scenery, but enriched on every level.

Justine isn't just a guide—she's a lifelong learner in action. (And believe me, I know a bit about lifelong learning—I teach the neuroscience behind it!) She brought an astonishing depth of knowledge to everything we encountered, from native flora and fauna to Māori culture, history, and art. And the way she wove it all together—cultural, botanical, ecological, historical—was nothing short of masterful. You could tell she was deeply rooted in the land and its stories, especially as a native of nearby Great Barrier Island. That personal connection made everything feel authentic and deeply human.

The tour itself was beautifully structured. Yes, the catalog says you'll see stunning sea views, native birds, ancient pā sites, and traditional uses of plants—but what you really get is the sense that you’re being invited into a living classroom with nature as the chalkboard and Justine as the inspired teacher. We learned so much, yet it never felt like a lecture. Justine made it feel like a conversation among curious minds.

The lunch stop? Delicious. The native bush walk? Peaceful and full of unexpected wonder. And the views—oh, the views. Jaw-dropping panoramas that reminded us just how glorious this planet can be.

Terra & Tide is clearly a company that values quality, integrity, and depth. They don’t just hire guides—they bring on board people who embody the spirit of exploration and respect for place. Justine made the day unforgettable, and we’re so grateful.

Highly, wholeheartedly recommended.

—Barbara Oakley Professor of Engineering & Neuroscience Educator (And proud, awe-struck tourist on...

I recently visited the Waiheke Island as part of my solo new Zealand Adventure. As soon as I deboarded the Ferry, I was greeted by my Terra and Tide guide and hike partner for the day Dell. From there we embarked on a remarkable hiking adventure around the island. It was a roughly 5 KM hike, completely achievable by anyone with some hiking experience. The scenic beauty along the way is absolutely breathtaking and it follows you throughout the hike. Dell is very informed, and she constantly educated me on the Maori culture, introduced me to the native plants and bird species. She is also so kind and ensured I was comfortable and safe throughout the trip. At the end of the hike, we had a lovely picnic lunch by the sea and also dipped our feet in the cold and crisp water. From there, Dell took me to have a hokey pokey ice cream, before I took the ferry back to the mainland. This was truly a highlight of my New Zealand trip and Dell truly made it feel extra special. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip and getting to spend a day with Dell, learning more about New Zealand, its culture, flora and fauna. Cannot wait to be back and would definitely book another hike with...

The day with Terra and Tide was a special birthday gift for me. We were a family party of eight with our hosts Bruce and Gabrielle. The voyage on the catamaran from Waiheke to Tiritiri Matangi Island was in good sun soaked sailing weather and while Bruce could, and did, all that is needed for safe sailing, I had the pleasure of the helm for a good part of the ride. On arrival In a crystal clear bay we swam, snorkelled and used the paddle board and kayak. A excellent lunch spread was presented and then Bruce ferried all of us over to the island for a nature walk guided by Gabrielle. The day’s mix of activities was great. We had the sailing, the water activities and Gabrielle’s talk on the bird and insect life on the island. This included the rehabilitation and restoration project on the island and other islands in the region. Back on the boat a chocolate cake with candles topped off my day. Then all too quickly the sail back to port on Waiheke. Bruce and Gabrielle are a super couple and hosts presenting a birthday outing for me which will remain solidly in all...