Waiheke Island is the second-largest in the Hauraki Gulf after Great Barrier Island. It is the most populated, with nearly 8,730 permanent residents plus another estimated 3,400 who have second or holiday homes on the island.It is New Zealand's most densely populated island, with 83.58 people and the third most populated after the North and South Island.It is the most accessible offshore island in the Gulf, due to regular passenger and car ferry services.