Keen on some booze and views? Waiheke Island is the destination for you!
Just a short 40-minute ferry away from Auckland, the island boasts white sand beaches, postcard-worthy headlands, and vibrant vineyards. No visit to the world-famous destination is complete without tasting its fine Waiheke Island wine. But the question is — where to start?
We've narrowed down the best Waiheke Island wine tours and vineyard visits to help you plan the perfect holiday, so you just have to relax and get your booze on.
- Mudbrick Vineyard
- Kennedy Point Vineyard
- Obsidian Vineyard
- Jurassic Ridge
- Stonyridge Vineyard
- Frenchman’s Hill Estate
- Te Motu Vineyard
- Cable Bay Vineyards
- Tantalus Estate
- Waiheke Wine Centre
- Casita Miro Vineyard
- Man O’War
- Poderi Crisci Estate
- Awaroa Vineyard
- Peacock Sky
- Wild on Waiheke
- Woodside Hill
- Goldie Wines
- Te Whau Vineyard
- Batch Winery
1. Mudbrick Vineyard
Captivating sunsets and delicious wine make for an unbeatable combination Image credit: @mudbrick_nz
Waiheke Island wine, waterside views, and gourmet food — what more can you ask for? Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant offers couples, friends, and families the perfect place for a get-together to remember. Plus, they're also pet-friendly. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the vineyard’s internationally recognised wines as you take in the IG-worthy views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Address: 126 Church Bay Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Every day from 11am to 5pm
Known For: Attracting world-famous celebs like Taylor Swift and Cindy Crawford
2. Kennedy Point Vineyard
Catch up with friends over delectable wines. Image credit: @kayley_higgs
Kennedy Point is all about making the highest quality wines without harming the environment. This has earned them the feat of becoming the first and only certified organic vineyard in Waiheke Island. During your tasting, you’ll get to sip on their award-winning organic wines as you snack on fresh oysters and smoked salmon.
Address: 44 Donald Bruce Road, Surfdale, Waiheke Island 1081
Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday from 11am to 4pm
Known For: The only certified organic vineyard on the island
3. Obsidian Vineyard
Experience cloud wine at the Obsidian Vineyard. Image credit: @lala_jju__yani
To ensure the quality of their wines, the team at Obsidian only makes small batches from red and white grapes grown in lean mineralised clay soil under maritime conditions. You can taste the difference with every sip that’s chock-full of flavours. For something on the fruity side, make sure to try the Chardonnay.
Address: 22 Te Makiri Road, Onetangi, Auckland 1840
Opening Hours: Saturday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm
Known For: Its amphitheater location
Why choose one when you can go to three of the best Waiheke wine tasting experiences? On the Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour, you’ll combine a visit to the top wineries with an immersive tour of the island’s colourful history and culture. Plus, you’ll also enjoy a wonderful lunch by the beach.
4. Jurassic Ridge
Take in the views of Waiheke accompanied by a glass of fine wine. Image credit: @woolpower
The thing that sets this family-owned estate apart from other established wineries on the island is that it produces single-varietal, cellar-aged wines. Jurassic Ridge is all about making the most of its location. It gets plenty of natural light for IG-worthy pics, and did you know that its vines are planted over a mountain that’s more than 150 million years old?
Address: 144 Church Bay Road, RD1 Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Opening Hours: Saturday to Sunday from 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm
Known For: Their vines are planted over an ancient mountain ridge composed of 155 million-year-old rock formations
5. Stonyridge Vineyard
Nothing says party like sharing great rosé with great friends. image credit: @stonyridgevineyard
Craving for some cab? Look no further than Stonyridge Vineyard. The wine estate prides itself on its Cabernet Merlot, and for a good reason. Their Stonyridge Larose had not just been hailed as the best by The Age/Sydney Morning Herald in 2013, world leaders have also enjoyed it, from former Prime Minister Sir John Key to Queen Elizabeth II.
Address: 80 Onetangi Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30am to 5pm
Known For: Being the first commercial olive grove in New Zealand and award-winning cabernet merlot
6. Passage Rock
See how wines are crafted from the best grapes when you explore the vineyards. Image credit: @__sarahclarke
If winemaking were a sport, Passage Rock would be Waiheke’s greatest champion. The winery has made a name for itself, garnering eight trophies, 15 gold medals, and countless five-star ratings from local and international bodies. Wondering what acclaimed wine tastes like? Make sure to try out the show-stopping Syrah during your visit.
Address: 438 Orapiu Road, Te Matuku bay, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Known For: The most awarded winery in Waiheke
Eager to get your fill of first-class wine? Book Waiheke Island return ferry tickets and reach the island in 40 minutes from Auckland. Enjoy the comfort of a catamaran and take in the sights along the way as you wait to touch down at Waiheke.
7. Te Motu Vineyard
Learn all about the fine art of winemaking from the experts themselves. Image credit: @te_motu_waiheke
You don’t have to travel to the south of France for some great vino. Te Motu Vineyard makes fantastic Bordeaux-style wines that will make you feel like you’re in Europe. Don’t forget to try the estate’s signature Cabernet Sauvignon blend during your tasting.
Address: 76 Onetangi Road, Onetangi 1971, Waiheke Island
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 12pm to 5pm
Known For: Its restaurant, The Shed, which serves delectable dishes that complement their wines
8. Cable Bay Vineyards
Make your girls’ trip extra special on a Waiheke wine tour! Image credit: @cable_bay_vineyards
Cable Bay is all about maximizing the views. You’ll enjoy unbeatable views of the bay and the vineyards as you dine. While at the cellar door, you’ll also get to see the winemaking process from the full-length windows that show the inner workings of the winery as you sip on their wines. How’s that for a unique Waiheke island wine tasting experience?
Address: 12 Nick Johnstone Drive, Oneroa, Auckland 1840
Opening Hours: Every day from 11am to 5pm
Known For: Stunning bayside views
Want to know more about the island while you’re there? Combine your Cable Bay experience with a guided walking tour alongside an expert to learn all about Waiheke’s rich art scene and pristine beaches.
9. Tantalus Estate
Fantastic place and fantastic wine - is there anything better? Image credit: @travellinkiwis
As one of the newest additions to the Waiheke wineries map, Tantalus Estate has set itself apart from the others by being an all-in-one destination. Wine connoisseurs will enjoy the Syrahs and Malbecs at the cellar door. At the same time, beer lovers can indulge in craft beer at the estate’s brewery.
Address: 70 - 72 Onetangi Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 5pm
Known For: Being a winery, a craft brewery, and a restaurant in one location
10. Waiheke Wine Centre
Can’t decide which type of wine you like? No problem at Waiheke Wine Centre. Image credit: @waiheke_wine_centre
Unlike the other establishments on this list, Waiheke Wine Centre isn’t a winery but a wine store. However, it’s not just any kind of store because it boasts the most extensive collection of Waiheke wines globally, making it one of the essential stops for the islands’ visitors. It’s great for people who don’t have enough time to visit the vineyards but want to take home a nice souvenir.
Address: 153 Ocean View Road, Oneroa, Auckland 1081
Opening Hours: Weekdays from 9:30am to 7pm and weekends from 10am to 6pm
Known For: The most extensive collection of Waiheke Island wines in the world
11. Casita Miro Vineyard
What’s better than good food? Good food with fine wine. Image credit: @katebmckenna
Want to try something different? Why not add a Spanish twist to your Waiheke Island wine tasting experience? At Casita Miro, you can feast on as many tapas (Croquette! Prawns! Ham!) as you can while drinking flavourful white wine.
Address: 3 Brown Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island 1081
Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday from 11:30am to 2:30pm
Known For: Spanish-inspired menu
12. Man O’ War
Combine sweet beachfront views with sweet white wine at Man O’ War. Image credit: @manowarwine
With a sprawling 4,500-acre estate, Man O’ War has it all: a beach, a farm, and a whopping 75 vineyards. To make the most out of your visit, go for the beachside tasting experience. You’ll get to sip on tasty Chardonnays and Syrahs as you marvel at the glittering waters of the bay.
Address: 725 Man O War Bay Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm, and Friday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm
Known For: The only beachfront wine tasting experience in New Zealand
Why not level up your island adventure with a four-day Waiheke Backyard Break? You’ll enjoy the whole immersive experience to discover the island’s famous sights and hidden gems. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll hear about Waiheke's rich culture and traditions, as well as its diverse flora and fauna.
13. Poderi Crisci Estate
Take advantage of the great weather and explore the stunning Poderi Crisci Estate. Image credit: @podericrisci
Experience la dolce vita (the sweet life) as you indulge in delectable pasta dishes and locally sourced wines at Poderi Crisci. The Tuscan-inspired restaurant and winery is conveniently located 20 minutes from Oneroa, making your Italian cravings within arm’s reach.
Address: 205 Awaawaroa Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday from 12pm to 4pm
Known For: Serving traditional Italian dishes
14. Awaroa Vineyard
Floral surroundings and fruity wines await you at Awaroa Vineyard. Image credit: @mywaiheke
If there’s any vineyard that can prove that size doesn’t matter, it’s Awaroa Vineyard. It may be under five hectares, but its trophy shelf is filled to the brim with local and international awards, recognising the quality of its homegrown wines. Find out what the fuss is all about when you visit and try out its Syrahs and Cabernets during your tasting.
Address: 324 Waiheke Road, Auckland 6011
Opening Hours: Thursday to Friday from 11am to 3pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Known For: Being one of the smallest wine producers in Waiheke
Overwhelmed by all the planning you have to do for your Waiheke Island trip? Go on a Gourmet's Food and Wine Tour, including return ferry tickets, wine tastings, olive oil mill visit, and lunch. All you have to do is bring your appetite and camera to remember the day!
15. Peacock Sky
Get your fill of fantastic wine at Peacock Sky. Image credit: @nikkidaoust
Peacock Sky is the brainchild of wife and husband team Connie Festa and Rob Meredith. They designed it so that visitors get the full Waiheke Island experience with a comprehensive culinary adventure. The degustation-style wine tasting includes a glass of wine with each dish, so you can appreciate the food and wine like it’s meant to be.
Address: 152 Trig Hill Road, Onetangi, Waiheke 1081
Known For: views across the Hauraki Gulf
16. Wild on Waiheke
Take a walk on the wild side at Wild on Waiheke and try out different wines. Image credit: @racha_rugkapun
Wild on Waiheke has something to offer for everyone. There’s quality Syrah for wine enthusiasts, craft beer for beer connoisseurs, and a hearty lunch menu for the hungry. There's even archery and clay bird shooting for competitive gamers.
Address: 82 Onetangi Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 11:30pm to 5pm
Known For: Offering games, wines, beer, and food in a single place
Looking for more thrills? Challenge yourself on the Waiheke Island Zipline and Native Forest tour and zip from one towering tree to another. Then, discover the island’s diverse plant life on a guided bushwalk. After, you’ll tour Waiheke aboard an air-conditioned vehicle to see the best of the island.
17. Woodside Hill
Discover the intricacies of winemaking straight from the winemaker. Image credit: @chifuyu
Can’t pick between a Merlot or a Cabernet? At Woodside Hill, you can experience the best of both worlds. Thanks to its critically-acclaimed Emile and Vintage wines, you can savour the flavours and unique notes that come with the different varieties in a single drink.
Address: 58A Waimangu Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Saturday to Sunday from 2pm to 5pm
Known For: Award-winning Merlot Cabernet Franc
18. Goldie Estate
In the mood for a glass of rosé? Goldie Estate has you covered. Image credit: @whereisgalya on Instagram
No Waiheke wineries list is complete without mentioning the one that started it all. Goldie Estate founded winegrowing on the island in 1977 when its owners planted Cabernet Sauvignon to share with friends and family. Fast forward to more than 40 years later, its Syrah has garnered several awards. The estate now houses the University of Auckland’s Wine Science Centre, which guides the next generation of winemakers.
Address: 18 Causeway Road, Surfdale, Auckland 1081
Opening Hours: Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm
Known For: Pioneered winegrowing in Waiheke
19. Destiny Bay Wines
Learn all about picking the best grapes for the best wines at Destiny Bay. Image credit: @b.r.i.d.a
Never tried a wine blend before? Destiny Bay is the perfect place for your first try at Bordeaux wines. With an expert, you’ll learn all about how the flavour profiles of Cabernets and Merlots are married to produce something truly unique.
Address: 379B Gordons Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: By appointment
Known For: Producing highly-rated cabernet blends
20. Batch Winery
Nothing unites people better than great wine. Image credit: @batchwinery
Come for the unbeatable hilltop sights and stay for the flavourful Merlot, Malbec, and Chardonnay wines. Perched atop a hill overlooking the vineyards, Batch Winery is all about the wining and dining with a view. During your visit, you’ll learn how every detail of the area was planned, from the location of the vineyards to the design of the estate, producing aromatic, full-bodied Waiheke Island wines.
Address: 129 Carsons Road, Waiheke Island 1971
Opening Hours: Thursday to Monday from 11am to 5pm
Known For: Waiheke's highest vineyard
Make a day out of it and combine your winery tour with a half-day Waiheke Island walking tour. Set your itinerary to visit only the most fascinating and picturesque parts of the island alongside an expert guide.
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