Tour Overview

Embark on a personalized journey across Waiheke Island, led by Grant, a local connoisseur who unveils the island’s lesser-known paths and boutique wineries with a touch of personal flair. Starting your tour at Oneroa Village, you’ll quickly slip into the relaxed, vibrant pulse of the island, setting the tone for a day of exploration and indulgence.

As you travel away from the typical tourist trails, Grant navigates through lush, forested backroads with views of the azure waters below, enhancing the serene experience of the island’s natural landscape. The tour avoids the commercial bustle, opting instead for intimate wineries tucked in the rolling hills. Here, wine is not just tasted; it’s experienced. Each winery on the itinerary offers a distinct character, shaped by handpicked grapes and the unique philosophy of its vintner.

Beyond the vineyards, the tour captures the essence of Waiheke's community. The island is noted for its spirited, eclectic residents who add color and depth to the visitor experience. Lunch options abound, featuring fresh, local cuisine that complements the day’s wine selections.

By choosing this tour, you engage with Waiheke Island on a level that goes beyond typical tourist interactions, led by someone who embodies the island’s heart and history. Grant’s connections and insights open doors to experiences and encounters that resonate long after the day is done.

What's Included

Gabriella Lewenz Art gallery visit (time permitting)
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Taste around 15 premium Waiheke Island boutique wines.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch stop at Passage Rock Winery or similar (optional)
Small food pairings at the first or second winery

Not Included:

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Round-trip Ferry from Auckland
Gratuities

What To Expect

Your tour guide Grant is dedicated to providing you with a real experience of the authentically amazing Waiheke as he would friends and family, from a local feet on the ground perspective and you will see and sense much more of paradise with him. After a brief stop in Oneroa Village we drive up to the northern face for amazing views and along the most beautiful native bush lined roads looking down to the sparkling blue water as we head towards your first Waiheke winery. We avoid the heavily used tour routes and head along the back roads. We focus on family owned wineries where the people are salt of the Earth real passionate Waihekeans doing the hard graft and the wine is the best being made from hand picked grapes from the sustainable vineyards surrounding you. Every wine maker has a unique approach and our guests often comment on the relaxed flow of the tour and nice contrasting boutique wineries and the tangible vibe of this ancient Jurassic age island. You get to feel part of the scene and soak up the true energy of this miraculous living organism known as Waiheke. You will get to taste up to 15 premium handcrafted Waiheke wines with amazing lunch options and meet the locals.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

Matiatia Ferry Terminal

Auckland 1081, New Zealand

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Please book ISLAND DIRECT ferry on islanddirect.co.nz which leaves from Pier 13 Downtown Auckland. Take the 9:15am over to the island and the 4:20pm back. Grant will greet you as you step onto the island with a WAIHEKE ZEITGEIST sign. Any issues please contact Grant for alternatives. Cheers!

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Important Information

• Not wheelchair accessible

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby
Minimum age is 18 years
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Minimum age is 18 years
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Personalised groups of up to 9 people

WAIHEKE ZEITGEIST Small Groups Ultra Boutique Off Grid Wine Tours