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The tranquil Waiheke Island is just a boat ride away from Auckland

Waiheke Island is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. Located about 11 miles (17.7 km) from Auckland, New Zealand, the tropical island is your central source for forest, beaches, vineyards and olive groves, and if you're up for the challenge, you can attempt to visit all of these natural attractions in one trip while you're on locum tenens assignment.

The beaches on Waiheke Island, including the popular Oneroa, make a visitor's stay well worth the ferry ride. Facing the sunny north, Oneroa is a tourist favorites, partially because of the vibrant village surrounding it. On the clearest of days, you can see the Coromandel Peninsula in the distance from the Oneroa coastline.

Palm Beach is fairly quiet with calm waters and sparkling white sand, so it can be an ideal hideaway for a few hours of peace and meditation. During certain times of year, phosphorescence fills the bay, creating a stunning display in the water.