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Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is situated in the Hauraki Gulf. Only 17km from central Auckland, it an easy 35-40 minute ferry ride from the city's downtown piers. Waiheke is the second largest island in the Hauraki Gulf. Its proximity Auckland means it has become New Zealand third most populated island.
The climate is often said to be generally warmer than Auckland with less humidity and rain and more sunshine hours. There is no real evidence of this.
Waiheke Island has a permanent population of around 8000 residents.
Tangata whenua for the island is Ngati Paoa, one of the tribes in the Hauraki Confederation. The island's marae, however, is Piritahi Marae, a pan-cultural centre established on a city council reserve at the western end of Blackpool. Its long-term chairman and prominent kaumatua is Kato Kauwhata.