The Hauraki Gulf is over a million hectares of sparkling blue waters dotted with islands in New Zealand’s North Island. It enters from the north by the Jellicoe and Cradock channels (west and east of Little Barrier Island) and has more than 50 islands within the park, many of which are conservation lands managed by the Department of Conservation.

Rangitoto is Auckland's most iconic landmark and a must-do day out for both locals and tourists. It has long been a favourite day-trip for hikers, and a popular place to camp or stay in one of the historic baches. The summit track climbs through the world's largest Pohutukawa forest and passes the black lava caves open for the public to explore. The peak is 850 feet above sea level, with incredible panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf. Take a private cruise with Riverhead Ferry to this Auckland icon that's deeply enriched in history. Emerging from the sea just over 600 years ago, pest-free Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in New Zealand.
Waiheke Island offers 92kms of beautiful beaches, picturesque coast walks along clifftops, famous vineyards, seaside suburbs, and many cultural activities. Among our most preferred destinations, Waiheke Island has been considered Auckland’s best day out. With the Riverhead Ferry, Take a private cruise to this island paradise full of world-class vineyards, pristine beaches, dramatic landscapes, art, and outdoor activities.
Rakino Island is a small and quiet island with only 16 permanent residents. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, and captivating views of the Hauraki Gulf, it's a beautiful isolated island destination. There are many public bays and beaches to walk to and a lot of history to enjoy - including the world's first solar-powered telephone! Take a private cruise to this untouched, isolated and "off-the-grid" destination to explore it's beautiful beaches, and wildlife, or stay in its luxurious island accommodation.

However, while the Riverhead Ferry offers Island Transfers & Cruises, the Riverhead Tavern Cruise allows you to cruise inland as far as possible to the uncharted waterways. Follow the route of the ancient Maori and early pioneers on this ferry journey up Auckland's Upper Harbour in the Hauraki Gulf to the Riverhead, New Zealand's oldest riverside tavern. This river cruise provides you with a one-of-a-kind night or day out, returning home 5 hours later.

At Riverhead Ferry, we have designed special shared and private cruises for you that explore the waterways flowing into Auckland’s spectacular harbour. On our traditional motor vessel you will experience New Zealand history and unique scenery while cruising up to one of the oldest riverside taverns, witness the wonders of nature on the many predator-free islands of the Hauraki Gulf, or enjoy our countries innovative and delicious cuisine at the many up and coming bars and restaurants.

The Riverhead Ferry offers Party Boat Cruises,  new year cruises from auckland city Christmas Party Cruises, Private Hobsonville Point Cruises, Half Moon Bay Private Cruises, and The Riverhead Tavern Cruise. While we offer affordable shared cruises, but you can also choose the Riverhead Ferry as your private boat for hire in Auckland. We provide amenities that include an onboard bar, an AUX sound system, a dance floor, and indoor and outdoor seating arrangements.

Riverhead Ferry cruises are ideal for senior and social club outings, work functions, family celebrations, and special occasions including birthdays, anniversaries, stag and hens parties, as well as wakes and scattering the ashes of your loved ones. For more than 15 years we have been taking large groups of people up to the The Riverhead Tavern and around the Hauraki Gulf. At Riverhead Ferry, we will continue to provide comfortable memorable charter boat cruises in Auckland's much-loved waterways for people of all ages.