Waiheke Island isn’t just a pretty face — it’s a place where you can indulge in world-class wines, enjoy gourmet food, or get your adrenaline pumping with outdoor adventures. Its close proximity to Auckland makes it a top choice for day trips, but what truly sets Waiheke apart are the variety of tours available. We especially love tours that combine wine tasting with scenic views, like the Waiheke Island Premium Wine Tour with Tastings, which balances expert guides, boutique vineyards, and good value. For thrill-seekers, the Zipline and Forest Walk offers a fun mix of aerial views and nature exploration. Whether you’re after a relaxing wine afternoon or an active outdoor day, Waiheke’s tours deliver.
Quick Overview
Waiheke Island offers a range of experiences, including premium wine tours, small-group boutique winery visits, gourmet food and wine adventures, and outdoor activities like ziplining and Segway rides. Some tours include lunch, others focus on scenic walks and adventure, and many are perfect for small groups, ensuring a personal touch. For a full list, check out the detailed reviews below.
1. Waiheke Island Premium Wine Tour with Tastings
At number 1, this premium wine tour combines high-end boutique vineyards with the input of a knowledgeable local guide. It covers top wineries, with wine tasting fees included, and even offers a stop for lunch at a vineyard. The tour includes round-trip transport from the ferry terminal by minibus, making it hassle-free. Guests love the relaxed pace and the chance to try some of the island’s best wines, with rave reviews mentioning the professionalism of the guides and the beautiful scenery.
Touring for about six hours, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive wine experience without feeling rushed. The tour’s flexibility allows you to request specific wineries, which adds a personal touch. The value for money is excellent considering the inclusions and expert guides.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine lovers who want a luxurious day exploring Waiheke’s best vineyards in comfort.
2. Waiheke Island: Zipline And Forest Walk
Number 2 on our list is the adventure-focused Waiheke Island Zipline and Forest Walk. This tour combines thrilling ziplines with an informative walk through native bushland. It’s a small-group experience limited to 12 participants, ensuring plenty of individual attention. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, it starts with a brief overview of Waiheke’s natural environment before gliding through treetops and finishing with a nature walk.
Guests praise the views from the ziplines and the knowledgeable guides who keep safety front and center. The tour lasts about three hours, making it an ideal half-day activity that’s both fun and educational. It’s especially great if you’re looking to add some adrenaline to your trip.
The bottom line: For a unique outdoor adventure that combines speed, views, and nature, this tour is hard to beat.
3. Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour
Number 3 offers a luxurious 5.5-hour experience combining boutique wine tastings with local delicacies like oysters, artisan cheese, and olive oil. Your guide will take you to carefully selected vineyards like Kennedy Point and Casita Miro, where you’ll enjoy tapas-style tastings and a lovely platter lunch at a vineyard restaurant.
This tour is praised for its personalized experience and the chance to sample Waiheke’s famous oysters and artisan products. The itinerary is flexible, and the tour includes transport from the wharf, making logistics simple. The reviews mention how well-organized and engaging the experience is, with many noting the quality of the lunch and tastings.
Worth noting: You can linger at the vineyards or explore Oneroa Village afterward. It’s perfect for foodies who want a relaxed, immersive day.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who love food and wine pairing and want a deluxe, intimate experience.
4. WAIHEKE ISLAND ZEITGEIST, Small Group Rustic Boutique Winery Tour
This small-group tour introduces you to Waiheke’s boutique wineries and passionate local winemakers. It’s approximately five hours of tasting world-class wines in a relaxed setting. The guide, Grant, is known for his personalized stories and in-depth knowledge of the island’s wine scene. Every stop offers chances to compare varietals and vintages, and you’ll meet winemakers who share their craft firsthand.
Guests note that Grant’s friendly personality and tailored approach make this tour memorable. It’s ideal if you’re after a personalized, off-the-beaten-path experience. The tour includes several wine tastings and a chance to learn about Waiheke’s culture and winemaking process.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine connoisseurs and those who prefer small groups and authentic conversations.
5. Waiheke Island Wine Tour with Scenic Vineyards & Tastings
Number 5 offers a half-day tour with scenic views of the Hauraki Gulf and visits to three well-known vineyards. The tour includes transport, three tastings, and a flexible itinerary, with the option to purchase lunch at the vineyards. It’s a relaxed way to enjoy Waiheke’s beautiful scenery and wines.
Guests praise the professional guides and the beautiful stops at Cable Bay, Stonyridge, and others. The tour is suited for wine enthusiasts who want a combination of scenery and tastings without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: A good choice for travelers wanting a balanced overview of Waiheke’s wine and scenery.
6. eRide Waiheke 5 bays ride
Number 6 is a self-guided e-bike rental, perfect for independent explorers. The Five Bays Ride takes you past Waiheke’s sandy beaches, olive groves, and vineyards at your own pace. The package includes a map, helmet, and bike lock, with plenty of options to stop for gelato, swimming, or wine.
Reviewers love the freedom this gives, with many calling it the best way to see Waiheke. It’s especially good if you prefer flexible scheduling and want to enjoy Waiheke’s scenery at your own pace.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a personalized, flexible day exploring the island.
7. The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour
Number 7 is an in-depth tour focusing on Waiheke’s top vineyards and winemaking characteristics. It includes visits to three wineries like Mudbrick and Kennedy Point, with guided commentary and a delicious lunch with wine or beer pairing. The tour provides transport and is perfect for those who want to learn more about the island’s wine culture.
Feedback highlights the personal, engaging guides and the opportunity to sample diverse wines. The tour lasts about five and a half hours, so it suits those wanting a comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: Best for wine learners who want to deepen their understanding of Waiheke’s wine scene.
8. Waiheke Island Scenic Wine Tour with Gourmet Beachfront Lunch
Number 8 combines scenic vineyard visits with a gourmet beachfront lunch. Starting with tastings at Cable Bay, then enjoying a set-menu lunch at a beachside restaurant, followed by more wine tastings at Stonyridge. It’s a half-day that offers delicious food, stunning views, and quality wines.
Travelers appreciate the combination of relaxing scenery and gastronomy, with many mentioning the spectacular views during lunch. It’s a good fit for those wanting a luxurious, scenic experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for food and wine lovers who enjoy combining great scenery with fine dining.
9. Waiheke island wine tours with Waitiki Tours
At number 9, this full-day tour visits three boutique wineries with a small group limited to six people. It includes beach stops, scenic views, and local wine tastings, with pickup and drop-off at the ferry or hotels. The guide provides a personalized overview of the island’s culture and wine.
Guests mention the friendly guide and the unhurried pace that allows for exploration and relaxed tasting. The tour runs about six hours, making it suitable for travelers wanting an immersive experience.
Bottom line: Great for wine enthusiasts who want a full, intimate day with plenty of local insights.
10. Taste of Waiheke Food and Wine Tour
Number 10 offers a 7-hour tour combining wine tastings, a two-course lunch, and olive oil tasting. It departs from Auckland, includes round-trip ferry tickets, and visits three vineyards. The food pairings and local products give you a taste of Waiheke’s culinary richness.
Reviewers love the balance of wine, food, and scenery, with many mentioning the delicious lunch and friendly guide. It’s perfect for those wanting an all-in-one day experience with culinary delights.
Bottom line: Best for foodies who want to explore Waiheke’s gourmet scene alongside wine.
11. Waiheke Island Day Tour: Ziplining, Wine Tasting & Vineyard Lunch
This full-day adventure combines ziplining, wine tasting at three vineyards, and a vineyard lunch. Starting with a scenic ferry ride, it’s ideal for adventure seekers who want a comprehensive experience. The zipline experience is a highlight, offering panoramic views and a taste of Waiheke’s lush forests.
Reviews emphasize the variety of activities and the efficient organization of the day. It’s perfect if you want to mix outdoor fun with wine tasting.
Bottom line: For active travelers wanting a full, exciting day on Waiheke.
12. Waiheke Island Winery Tour
Number 12 is a classic visit to three wineries with transport in comfort. It’s suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace while exploring the lush vineyards. The guide’s knowledge of the local wine scene ensures you’ll learn about Waiheke’s award-winning wines.
Guests report that the guides are friendly and the wines are of exceptional quality. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors wanting to get a good overview.
Bottom line: Ideal for wine newcomers and travelers seeking a comfortable, scenic tour.
13. Waiheke Island Half Day Scenic Wine and Lunch
This tour combines scenic drives, a lunch overlooking the Gulf, and visits to stunning vineyards like Mudbrick and Goldie Estate. It’s about four hours, perfect to cover the highlights in a relaxed way. The lunch and wine tasting are included, making it a convenient, well-rounded choice.
Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery. It’s suited for travelers who want a shorter, scenic experience with good food.
Bottom line: Best for time-conscious travelers who want scenery, wine, and a nice lunch.
14. Waiheke Island: Sip & Savour Tour
Number 14 offers a small-group experience that combines wine tastings with food pairings and a shared lunch. This 5.5-hour tour emphasizes personalized attention and visits three vineyards, with a focus on pairing wine and food.
Guests praise the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the delicious food and wine. It’s especially suitable for culinary enthusiasts and those wanting a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: Great for food and wine lovers who want a personalized, relaxed day.
15. Guided Segway Tour to the summit of Mt Victoria in Devonport Auckland
Rounding out the list is the Segway tour that takes you from the seaside village of Devonport to the top of Mt. Victoria. It’s a fun, active way to see the historic area and enjoy panoramic views of Auckland and the gulf. The small group size, plus full Segway training, makes it perfect for beginners and experienced alike.
Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the memorable views from the summit. It’s a perfect choice if you want a light-hearted, active experience with a personal touch.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a fun, easy introduction to Auckland’s nearby scenery.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a Waiheke Island tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For wine lovers seeking a luxurious, in-depth experience, the Waiheke Island Premium Wine Tour and The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour stand out. If outdoor adventure is your thing, the Zipline and Forest Walk or the Segway tour will suit you.
For those with limited time, a half-day scenic wine tour or gourmet food and wine experience offers a taste of Waiheke without the full-day commitment. If you prefer independent exploration, the eBike ride allows you to set your own pace and see the island on your terms.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability for your preferred experience. Whether you’re after a relaxing day of tasting, an adventure, or a blend of both, Waiheke’s tours promise something memorable.
In summary, Waiheke Island offers a rich selection of tours catering to wine enthusiasts, food lovers, outdoor adventurers, and those seeking scenic relaxation. From luxury wine experiences to thrilling zipline adventures and self-guided e-bike explorations, you’ll find options suited to your style and pace. Two or three standout choices—like the Premium Wine Tour for luxury, or the Zipline And Forest Walk for adventure—are perfect starting points. Plan ahead, book early, and get ready to enjoy Waiheke’s unique blend of wine, nature, and good times.