Wine and water on Waiheke!
Waiheke Island is a short 40 minute ferry ride from Auckland across the Harbour. The ferry service is excellent so many locals live there and commute into the city. Many more people, however come for a day or two to take advantage of all this beautiful island has to offer.
On the way you pass Rangitoto Island , which is also possible to visit. Rangitoto is the youngest and largest of Auckland’s 48 inactive volcanoes, and thankfully it’s been quietly sleeping for the last 600 years. People love to go to hike there, especially to its’ summit, enjoying the countryside and the picturesque beaches.
Waiheke is also renowned for its beautiful scenery and beaches but also its incredible wineries. Who knew a tiny Pacific island could be the home to so many great wines? We spend a wonderful day sipping and sampling!
Oneroa
Our day began with breakfast in the pretty town of Oneroa. White clad colonial style buildings, palm trees, restaurants and bars, there was a serious holiday vibe.
It was tempting to head for the beach but the vineyards were calling!
Each winery we visited was surrounded by rows of rolling vines with stunning views and gardens. Many of them also had great dining choices, clearly designed to entice visitors to linger, it was hard not to!
Tantalus Winery
The Garden at Tantalus.
The Tantalus Winery vineyards.
Stonyridge Vineyard
Another lovely spot on Waiheke with more great wine,
olive trees,
and more far reaching views.
Batch Winery
We all enjoyed sampling the wines at Batch.
Their local rosé was especially good.
The views were exquisite and the restaurant looked fabulous but, we had reservations somewhere else… not that we were disappointed!
Views of Auckland by Batch Winery
Mudbrick Winery
We retraced our steps going back through Oneroa and onto Mudbrick Winery.
Mudbrick was gorgeous, we shared some delicious small plates and sampled the local wine overlooking the gardens and more breathtaking views.
Man ‘O War Winery
Our final stop of the day was across the far side of the island, by the beach at Man ‘O War Winery.
The tasting room at Man ‘O War Winery.
The restaurant at Man ‘O War Winery.
Throughout the day we’d been intrigued by New Zealand’s Sealegs boats. Such a great idea, a boat that has wheels to enable you to drive on the road, allowing you to take your boat from your home to the beach. As long as your boat isn’t too far away, there’s no towing, no reversing, no boat ramps, sounds perfect! We’ve never seen them locally but apparently they are available!
We were treated to yet more splendid views on our return.
and even saw the sun setting over Auckland. An enchanting ending to a magical day and sadly, our time in New Zealand’s north island.
Lucky me to have such special cousins to spoil us as they did. The following day we were heading south.
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