Waiheke Wine Trail: Small-Group Coastal Vineyard Tour from Auckland
Catch the ferry and spend a day tasting award-winning wines on Waiheke Island. This small-group coastal wine tour visits three boutique vineyards, includes scenic commentary and lets you explore Oneroa village for lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book the early ferry
Arrive at Auckland ferry terminal by 08:30 to buy tickets and secure boarding; the tour meets at Matiatia Wharf around 09:45.
Pace your tastings
All tastings are included—sip and cleanse with water between flights to avoid overdoing it during a full-day tour.
Wear sturdy shoes
Expect short gravel paths and brief uphill walks to viewpoints; closed-toe shoes make vineyard access easier.
Bring sun protection
Sea breezes can be deceptive—use sunscreen, a hat and a light wind layer for afternoon conditions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Clifftop viewpoint near the second vineyard for uncrowded Gulf panoramas
- •A tucked-away cellar door where small-batch releases are available only by direct purchase
Wildlife
- •New Zealand fantail (piwakawaka)
- •occasionally dolphins or shearwaters in the Hauraki Gulf
Conservation Note
Many vineyards on Waiheke follow low-intervention practices and water-conscious viticulture; visitors are encouraged to stick to paths and avoid disturbing native scrub.
Waiheke transitioned from grazing land to viticulture in the late 20th century; its microclimates and soils have made it a hub for boutique winemaking.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ridgeline terrace at a vineyard overlooking the Hauraki Gulf
- • Matiatia Wharf as the ferry arrives
- • Oneroa beachfront looking back toward the vineyards
What to Bring
Sunscreen and hatEssential
Protects against strong sun during vineyard stops and on exposed viewpoints.
Comfortable closed-toe shoesEssential
Needed for gravel paths and short uphill walks at winery sites.
Light wind jacket
Blocks chilly sea breezes that arrive unexpectedly, especially in the afternoon.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated between wine tastings and during walks; refill at cafes or on the van.
Common Questions
Do I need to buy a separate ferry ticket?
Yes — purchase your ferry ticket to Waiheke in advance or at the terminal; the tour meets you on arrival at Matiatia.
Are tastings included?
Yes, wine tastings at the three selected vineyards are included in the tour price.
Is transportation between vineyards provided?
Yes, transfers between vineyards and to Oneroa village are included as part of the tour.
Can children join the tour?
The tour accommodates families but is focused on wine tastings; contact the operator about underage passenger arrangements.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included — the itinerary includes drop-off time in Oneroa so you can choose from cafés and restaurants.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled for bad weather with a refund if within the operator’s cancellation policy; check confirmation details before travel.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Waiheke Island, Auckland
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average fitness; involves short walks and standing during tastings
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