An old story goes that the guides in the Uffizi, the fabulous Renaissance gallery in Florence, would quietly remind visitors that "it is not the paintings that are on trial here".

Waiheke Island International Jazz Festival event director John Quigley chats to Danielle Wright about this year's line-up and why it's the ideal 'Waihekend'.

A free guided walk on Waiheke Island brings visitors closer to nature.

Great island, notes Wendyl Nissen, just leave me in peace on the ferry.

Waiheke Island walking guide, Janine James, shares what she loves about her own slice of paradise.

An Urban Reset retreat aims to recharge bodies and minds exhausted by the daily grind.

This has been something of an institution since its opening seven or so years ago and it's easy to see why.

I don't take great trouble to disguise my identity when I eat out. The photo above may suggest some coyness, but I am unmasked on the Herald's website. I book in an assumed name and the Professor usually takes the lead when we arrive. But that's it.

There are many beautiful beaches to base yourself on Waiheke. We chose Onetangi.

Avoid the pre-Christmas madness and invest in some healthy healing time on Waiheke Island.

Donna McIntyre sets out in search of the Hauraki Gulf's bounty on a fishing charter boat.

Waiheke Island has never been better positioned to take its place as a serious feature on the New Zealand winescape.

Fraser Munroe has been a stonemason for 17 years, and his quality stonework can be seen at many of Waiheke Island's vineyards and lodges. He tells Raewyn Court what he loves about living on the island.

Former England captain Phil Vickery is encouraging the English rugby fans to make the trip to New Zealand.

When it comes to old-fashioned arthouse cinemas, Auckland is spoilt for choice, writes Cate Foster.

Waiheke winemaker Kim Goldwater has donated a 14ha section of his vineyard to the University of Auckland.

Good food and wine reward your exertions on a new Waiheke track, writes Donna McIntyre.

There's something wonderfully decadent about dining out yet being in your own private room. One of the most fabulous eateries to cross the Viva radar recently is the underground cellar at Cable Bay vineyard on Waiheke Island.