Explore Ferry Timetable
Man O' War Bay is conveniently accessible with direct services on Explore’s premium Hauraki Gulf cruise fleet – just 90 minutes from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. The Explore ferry departs from the Explore Kiosk, located inside Auckland's Viaduct Harbour at the end of Quay St, diagonally across from the entrance to the New Zealand Maritime Museum. Link to map here
SPECIAL OFFER: 25% off travel to end May 2025
Promo code: AUTUMNAKL
Validity: Valid for travel 01 Mar – 31 May 2025
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WINTER SCHEDULE (28th April 2025 – 26th October 2025)
Operates Wednesday – Sunday & Public Holidays (no departure Mon & Tue)
Departs Auckland: 9:15am | Arrives Man O' War: 10:55am
Departs Man O' War: 2:20pm | Arrives Auckland: 4:00pm
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes (Travel is via Rotoroa Island)
Return - $95 Adult | $50 Child ( 5 - 15 years) | Under 5 years travel free
One way tickets available - $47.50 Adult | $25 Child
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are your payment options?
We accept Visa and MasterCard through Payment Express for all bus ticket purchases.
As standard practice we force all our pages to be encrypted on our website to furthermore offer peace of mind and security. Please note we do not hold any credit card information.
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I’ve purchased the wrong ticket! What can I do?
We appreciate accidents can happen. What we recommend doing is purchasing the correct tickets and then applying for a refund for the incorrect tickets.
Please have your order confirmation number ready and contact the Tasting Room to process a refund.
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Can I purchase a one way ticket?
Getting back from Man O’ War Bay without transport can be really tricky and at times Taxi’s/Shuttles can be booked out. So we made the decision to enforce a return ticket purchase.
We understand that there are circumstances when you do only need a one-way ticket, please contact us.
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Can I make a last minute purchase?
We close ticket purchases 10 minutes before each service. To avoid disappointment, please purchase your Bus ticket well in advance.
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Can I get a refund?
If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase please get in touch with the Tasting Room. Please note we do not have to provide a refund if you have changed your mind about a particular purchase or would like to cancel your order.
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How long is the journey?
Downtown Ferry to Matiatia Wharf is approximately 40 minutes. Which should give you ample time to disembark and make your way to the pick up destination.
The Bus takes approximately 50-60 minutes to reach Man O’ War Bay from Matiatia Wharf.
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Are there seatbelts?
Seatbelts in buses are not required by New Zealand law and we are unable to guarantee availability of buses fitted with seatbelts in advance of travel.
If you are traveling with a child in a carseat or booster seat, and the bus you travel on does not have seat belts fitted you are more than welcome to put the car seat/booster seat in the undercarriage and carry the infant or child on your knee.
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How many seats are there?
Our bus has 39 seats available, therefore there are ever only 39 tickets available for sale per trip, this includes pick-ups in Onetangi.
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Is the bus air conditioned?
Yes! However if the temperature is not comfortable, please let your driver know.
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Can I hire the entire bus?
Absolutely. Simply purchase all 39 tickets online for your preferred date/time. Alternatively contact us directly to discuss your requirements.
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I’m arriving by boat. What can I do?
Cruising into Man O’ War Bay by boat and wanting to visit the rest of the island? You can book a one-way bus ticket by contacting us or enquiring at the Tasting Room.
