Planning a trip that would suit my elderly father was a challenge. This is what we did on 30 April 2009. We parked our car in Panmure, took the train to the city, and took the ferry to Waiheke. It wasn’t what most people would consider a fun trip. But it gave us enough to see and lots of time to talk. (Our American cousin thought Waiheke was a lot like California.)
Waiting for the train at Panmure railway station
Train journey
Reached Britomart Train Station
Lift for elderly at Britomart–Handy
Short walk to the Ferry Terminal in Downtown Auckland
On our way at last
Auckland Skyline–receding
Watching Auckland from the deck
Rather windy, ay?
Yeah
Too windy here
This is much better
Explore tour by bus with a pleasant commentary from the driver
Scenic spot in Waiheke
One of the many vineyards in the island
Olive trees. Waiheke wins gold and silver medals for its olive oil at the competition in California every year
Courage to tremble 
Great pictures. Waiheke does look a lot like parts of California, like the wine country and many other areas in the coastal hills. Really lovely.