Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue

Looking for a way to enjoy New Zealand’s acclaimed wine scene while soaking in breathtaking coastal views? This Waiheke Island wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience—visiting three top vineyards, enjoying a delectable lunch at a beachfront restaurant, all in about five hours. Priced at $170 per person, with the guidance of a passionate local Waiheke Kiwi, it’s a fantastic way to combine wine, scenery, and authentic hospitality.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it runs—comfortable transportation and expert guides that make you feel like a local friend sharing their favorite spots. Plus, the lunch is not just a meal but an experience, served at an award-winning venue right by Onetangi Beach with sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf. On the flip side, you’ll need to organize your ferry tickets separately, which could be a bit of extra planning if you’re not already on Waiheke. This tour suits travelers who appreciate good wine, scenic beauty, and a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, especially those keen to learn about Waiheke’s unique wine culture with an insider.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided by local Waiheke guides who share genuine insights.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy sweeping views of beaches, vineyards, and Gulf islands.
• Quality Tastings: Sample award-winning wines including Rosé, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux blends.
• Beachfront Lunch: Dine at a highly-rated, award-winning restaurant right on the beach.
• Comfortable Transport: Relax in a well-maintained vehicle that makes moving between stops easy.
• Flexible Options: Opportunity to extend your stay on Waiheke or explore nearby villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Waiheke Island Wine Tour

This five-hour guided experience begins with a ferry ride from Auckland to Matiatia Wharf, where your local guide meets you with a welcoming smile and a sign. This initial part sets the tone—expect panoramic views of beaches, villages, and rugged landscapes that make Waiheke so visually appealing. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable vehicle, ready to explore three of the island’s best vineyards.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity and local knowledge. Your guide, often praised for being funny, caring, and well-informed, will share stories about Waiheke’s winemaking history and its Mori roots. It’s a chance to learn while tasting some of New Zealand’s finest wines in a relaxed setting.

The Vineyard Visits

Each vineyard has its own charm, and the selection is carefully curated. Expect visits to premium wineries in the Onetangi Valley, a region celebrated for producing some of Waiheke’s best wines. The tastings include a variety of award-winning varietals—from delicate Rosés and crisp Pinot Gris to rich Chardonnay, and bold Bordeaux-style blends like Syrah.

Reviews highlight the quality of the wines—“All the wines were wonderful at every stop,” as one traveler put it—showing the consistency in excellence across the board. Visitors also appreciate that the wineries offer engaging presentations with hosts who are friendly and eager to share their craft.

Key insight: The visits are paced to give plenty of time to savor each tasting without feeling hurried. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll find the variety and quality particularly satisfying.

Lunch at 372 Restaurant

The lunch stop at 372 Restaurant is often praised as a highlight. Sitting right on the beach at Onetangi, it offers a gourmet meal with panoramic views of the white sand and sparkling Gulf waters. Many reviews mention the delicious food—ranging from steak to vegetarian options—and the fact that a glass of local wine is included with the meal, enhancing the experience.

One traveler noted, “Lunch overlooking the sea with fresh seafood and excellent service made for a perfect break,” while others appreciated the idyllic location and the high standard of the food. The restaurant’s setting makes it easy to relax, soak in the scenery, and perhaps even dip your toes in the ocean after the meal.

Post-Lunch Activities

After lunch, there’s time for a leisurely stroll along the beach or a quick dip in the ocean—many guests find this a refreshing way to reset before continuing the wine journey. The tour then heads back inland to explore Waiheke’s picturesque Onetangi Valley, where more tasting opportunities await.

The final stops give insight into the challenges and triumphs of Waiheke’s winemakers, making the experience not just about tasting but understanding what makes Waiheke wines distinctive. Guides often share stories about the winemaking process, adding depth to the visit.

Reviewers describe the wineries as “top-notch,” with hosts eager to share their passion and knowledge, making each tasting memorable.

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Transportation and Group Experience

This tour keeps a comfortable pace with shared transport—a clean, well-maintained vehicle that offers plenty of room and a smooth ride. The group size, often around 17 people, fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and meet fellow travelers.

Guides like Nooroa and Caleb are consistently praised for their fun, engaging, and informative approach. Many reviews mention how guides go above and beyond—like picking up late arrivals or sharing local tips for exploring Waiheke further.

Practical Details & Considerations

You’ll want to book your ferry tickets separately, as they’re not included. The tour recommends arriving at Matiatia Wharf by 10:40 AM for an 11 AM start, or 11:40 AM for a noon start, so plan accordingly. The ferry ride offers stunning views of the coastline, beaches, and the islands.

The tour duration, about five hours, is ideal for a full but not exhausting day. It’s suited for most travelers, but note that it’s not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for children under 18.

Weather can impact the experience—rain or shine, the vineyards and lunch are subject to change based on availability. Still, most reviews note that even in less-than-perfect weather, the experience remains enjoyable thanks to the friendly guides and beautiful scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a wine lover wanting to taste Waiheke’s best while enjoying scenic coastal views, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience that balances wine, food, and sightseeing without feeling rushed. The focus on authentic Kiwi hospitality and stunning scenery makes it a hit among solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to experience Waiheke with a knowledgeable guide.

This tour is less suited for travelers with mobility issues or young children, but it’s ideal for anyone who appreciates quality wine, scenic beauty, and a good story.

The Sum Up

This Waiheke Island wine tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines world-class wines, breathtaking views, and delicious local food. With friendly guides, a comfortable pace, and visits to some of the island’s finest vineyards, it provides a genuine taste of Waiheke’s wine culture in just a few hours.

It’s especially valuable if you want a hassle-free, engaging way to explore Waiheke’s top wineries without the stress of planning your own itinerary. The included lunch at a premium beachfront restaurant adds a special touch, making the day feel like a true indulgence.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that highlights Waiheke’s scenic beauty and wine craft, this tour deserves a top spot in your travel plans.

FAQs

Do I need to book ferry tickets separately?
Yes, ferry tickets are not included. It’s recommended to reserve your seat on the ferry in advance via the Island Direct or Fullers services.

What time should I arrive on Waiheke?
Arrive at Matiatia Wharf by 10:40 AM for an 11 AM tour start, or 11:40 AM for a noon start, to ensure timely pickup.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18. The focus is on wine tastings and adult experiences.

Can I extend my day on Waiheke after the tour?
Absolutely. Many guides will drop you at Oneroa Village, where you can explore shops or enjoy dinner. Ferries run into the night, making it easy to stay longer.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a range of award-winning varietals including Rosé, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

How many vineyards are visited?
Three boutique vineyards in the Onetangi Valley, each offering distinct wines and scenery.

What’s the lunch like?
A gourmet meal at 372 Restaurant, right on the beach, with a glass of local wine included—many reviews highlight its quality and setting.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider layers if rain is forecast. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around vineyards and the beach.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and personalized attention—making the tour more engaging and insightful.

This comprehensive Waiheke Island wine tour combines the best of scenic beauty, top-tier wines, and authentic local hospitality. Perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike, it offers a relaxed, enjoyable day that’s hard to beat on New Zealand’s North Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: