Waiheke Island: Wine Tasting Tour with Beachfront Lunch

Summary

Wine country views, three tastings, lunch by the sea on waiheke

You’ll sip Waiheke Island wines straight from the source, chat with local winemakers who actually remember your name, and share a long beachfront lunch with new friends. Expect laughter, stories about the island’s history you won’t find online, and moments that stick with you long after you’re back on the ferry.

What’s the experience like?

“Try this one — it’s got a bit of Waiheke sun in it,” our guide grinned as she poured the first glass at Mudbrick Vineyard. I’m not sure if that was just a line or if the pinot really did taste brighter, but something about standing there with the vines rolling down toward the water made it feel true. The morning air still had that salty snap from the ferry ride over, and I could smell rosemary somewhere nearby — maybe from the kitchen prepping for lunch later. Our group was small; just six of us plus our guide, who seemed to know everyone on the island (she waved to at least three people before we’d even left the car park).

The drive between vineyards was all green hills and glimpses of blue sea. At Kennedy Point, we met a winemaker named Tane who explained why their organic syrah tasted “like summer storms.” He let us touch the barrels — smooth oak, cool to the hand — and I probably looked ridiculous sniffing my glass so seriously. But nobody minded. There was this easy warmth between people here; even when I tried (and failed) to pronounce Te Motu properly, someone just laughed and gave me a tip on where to get good fish and chips later.

Lunch was at Three Seven Two right on Onetangi Beach. Sand stuck to my shoes as we walked in (nobody cared), and I ordered fish that came with lemon so sharp it made my eyes water — in a good way. The wine they paired with it tasted like stone fruit and sunlight. We lingered longer than planned; honestly, I could’ve stayed until sunset but eventually our guide rounded us up for the drive back. I still think about that view through the bus window: vines, ocean, sky all kind of blurring together as we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waiheke Island wine tour and lunch

• Pickup from ferry or accommodation
• Scenic drive with local guide commentary
• Visit Mudbrick Vineyard for tasting
• Visit Kennedy Point Vineyard for tasting
• Visit Te Motu Vineyard for tasting
• Lunch with wine at vineyard restaurant
• Return to accommodation or ferry

Top questions

How many wineries do you visit on this Waiheke wine tour?

You’ll visit three different vineyards for tastings during this tour.

Is lunch included in the Waiheke wine tasting tour?

Yes, a one-course lunch with a glass of local wine or beer is included at Three Seven Two or another top venue.

Are pickups available from Auckland or only Waiheke Island?

Your guide can pick you up from either the Fullers ferry terminal ex-Auckland or your accommodation on Waiheke Island.

How long does this Waiheke Island wine tour last?

The tour includes several hours of vineyard visits plus a two-hour lunch stop before returning you to your pickup point.

Is there commentary about Waiheke’s history & culture?

Yes, your local guide shares stories about Waiheke’s history, geography, people and produce as you travel between stops.

Can dietary needs be accommodated for lunch?

If you have special requests for lunch venues or dietary needs, let them know when booking so they can arrange accordingly.

What happens if weather cancels ferries to Waiheke?

If ferries are canceled due to extreme weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from either Auckland’s ferry terminal or your accommodation on Waiheke Island (just let them know which), guided transport between three selected vineyards for tastings led by locals who really know their stuff, plus a relaxed beachfront lunch with a main dish and glass of wine or beer before heading back in comfort.