The Boatshed

Hotel has great views and overlooks a plethora of boats sailing in and out all day. The hotel is a boutique hotel with quirky features, the staff are friendly and helpful and breakfast and the evening meal are top notch. We were served a wonderful 4 course menus of fresh local dishes. We would definitely return to Waiheke Island and The Boatshed would be our first stop.

We just returned from a trip to New Zealand, and staying at The Boatshed on Waiheke Island (just off the coast of Auckland) was a highlight. I really can’t recommend it enough: The staff was warm and genuine, and the island views seemed to go on forever. It was amazing to wake up to breakfast each morning, and the resort offered many well-appointed tables and reading nooks, perfect for enjoying coffee, a meal, or a glass of wine from a local winery. I would rate this a don’t-miss if you are traveling to Auckland; the island is amazing, and I’m so glad we stayed at The Boatshed.

Stunning hotel in a great location!! Clean modern rooms with an outdoor area. The breakfast and dinner were phenomenal. Staff could not be more friendly! I highly recommend this hotel!

From the moment we were picked up from the ferry our time at the Boatshed was magical. When Jonathan and Harry the dog met us at the door you almost have the sense that you are family. As you walk into this understated gem you are filled with a warm, comfortable vibe. Our room was called the Bridge room. It was light and airy and had a view you can only dream about. At night slipping into the soft, crisp sheets was a perfect way to sleep away our jet lag. And oh! The food was amazing! I am gluten free and there was always a homemade selection for me. Whether it was the delightful breakfasts or the romantic dinner, it was as they say, seed to table with most ingredients picked from the beautiful garden in back. Leona and the entire staff always made sure that we were comfortable and had what we needed. My only complaint is that our time at the Boatshed was too short.

Waiheke Island is a place you'll want to spend a few days in if you're on the tail-end of your NZ trip. It's a laid-back, nature-centric place with above-average wineries and a handful of excellent restaurants (most are at the wineries, not coincidentally). And The Boatshed couldn't be better located. It's just east of Oneroa, facing Oneroa Bay, so you have the views and a location that's walking distance to town. People come here to decompress and relax, and our travel agent was very right to have this at the end of our trip.

There are only five suites and two bungalows (with three suites and a lower level kitchen/breakfast area if you're traveling with your family or small group). We had a bungalow and were very pleased with the accommodations, which marine-themed but in a very tasteful manner. The bungalows are across a side street from the main building, maybe twenty meters, and they have a tree-covered patio area with cafe string lights overhead for evening illumination.

Jonathan, the owner and GM, is hands on and very capable. You'll see him and his capable, friendly team frequently as they prepare your evening canapes/cocktails and meals. Excellent quality as well, but due to The Boatshed's small size you won't have a traditional dinner menu to select from --- it's chef's choice. Both dinners were great; at breakfast you'll have two choices plus a daily special dish to select from.

Be sure to have Jonathan (or your travel agent) get you a wine tour with Ananda Tours, who can accommodate couples as well as larger groups, as they know all the best places on Waiheke.

Highly recommended small hotel to base out of for your Waiheke Island vaca.