Private Waiheke Food & Wine Tour — Waiheke Island Vineyard Tastings & Scenic Lunch
Spend six hours cruising Waiheke’s coastal roads in an electric Mercedes van, sampling up to three boutique vineyards, award-winning olive oil, honey and a vineyard lunch. This private tour blends scenery, local history and focused tastings for a full-day island experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring sun protection
Waiheke gets strong sun — hat, sunscreen and sunglasses will keep you comfortable between tastings.
Comfortable shoes for short walks
Vineyard paths are gravel or grass with modest slopes — closed-toe shoes and sensible soles are best.
Notify dietary needs early
The lunch is at a winery restaurant; inform the operator before arrival to accommodate allergies or preferences.
Carry a small daypack
Bring water, camera, and a light layer—tastings are relaxed but the wind can pick up on lookouts.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet Oneroa village lanes with independent artisan shops and galleries
- •Church Bay lookout and small coastal tracks for sunset views away from main crowds
Wildlife
- •Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon)
- •Tūī — often heard before seen, flitting through vineyard shrubs
Conservation Note
Many producers emphasize low-intervention farming; visitors are asked to stay on paths, minimize waste, and support local businesses to reduce tourism impact.
Waiheke has long been inhabited by Māori and shifted to mixed farming and, from the 1970s, boutique viticulture; the island’s wineries grew around microclimates and small-scale production.
Photographer's Notes
- • Coastal lookout with Hauraki Gulf panorama
- • Winery restaurant terrace overlooking vineyard rows
- • Short vineyard strolls for close-up vine and barrel-room shots
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects skin during open-air stops and lunch on winery terraces.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Stable soles for gravel and grass vineyard paths.
Light rain jacket or windbreakerEssential
Coastal winds and changeable weather make a light layer useful year-round, especially in spring and winter.
Compact camera or smartphone with extra battery
Captures coastal views, vineyard terraces and candid tasting moments.
Common Questions
How many wineries will we visit?
The tour visits up to three wineries; the exact venues depend on availability and group preferences.
Where does the tour start and finish?
The guide meets guests at the Waiheke ferry wharf (Matiatia) and returns there at the end; hotel pickup on the island is also offered.
Is the tour suitable for children?
This is an adult-focused tasting tour; children can join but wine tastings are for adults and menus may be limited.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes — the operator requests dietary needs at booking and will arrange alternatives with the winery restaurant when possible.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour runs in most weather; coastal wind and rain are possible, so dress in layers. Check cancellation details for refunds (full refund if cancelled 24 hours prior).
Is transport included?
Yes — travel between stops is in luxury Mercedes e-vans; the price includes transport and the listed tastings and lunch.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Waiheke Island, Auckland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity: suitable for most fitness levels; includes short, low-elevation walks and long periods of sitting
Ready to Explore Waiheke Island?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now