Waiheke Island wine tour in electric vans: Remote vineyards

Taste across three remote vineyards and finish at a gin distillery overlooking the bay.

A private 5-hour wine tour of Waiheke Island's far end in electric vans, visiting three top vineyards with up to 12 tastings, a knowledgeable guide and scenic coastal stops. The tour reaches the remote parts of the island most visitors miss, includes stops at Passage Rock Vineyard, Man O War (where Captain Cook anchored in 1769), and Waiheke Gin Distillery, with optional lunch at Man O War Bay.

Step-by-step itinerary

Waiheke Island Scenic Wine Tour

• Pick up from Matiatia ferry or location
• Drive through Oneroa settlement
• Wine tasting at Passage Rock Vineyard
• Scenic drive to Man O War vineyard
• Wine tasting and optional lunch at Man O War
• Visit Waiheke Gin Distillery for tastings
• Return to ferry or accommodation

The experience

The tour starts with pickup from Matiatia Ferry or your accommodation on Waiheke Island, then heads inland on a scenic route past Oneroa (the island's main settlement with its palm-lined streets and beach views) before arriving at Passage Rock Vineyard for the first tasting. From there, the drive deepens into the island's pastoral landscape: grazing sheep and cows, coves and beaches coming into view as you approach Man O War, a prestigious vineyard perched above Man O War Bay where Captain Cook first anchored in 1769.

At Man O War, you spend time tasting three wines and taking in views across the bay. Lunch is available here at extra cost if you want it, and swimming in the bay is an option too. The route then winds to Waiheke Gin Distillery for three gin tastings and more scenery before a leisurely drive back to the ferry or your accommodation. The whole day runs 5 hours in private electric vans with a guide who knows the island's history, hidden corners and wine scene.

Up to 12 tastings across the three venues are included, along with private transport and guided commentary throughout. The minimum drinking age is 18. Public transport options exist nearby if you need them, and the tour suits all fitness levels.

What’s included

• Private transportation in electric vans.
• up to 12 wine tastings across three top vineyards (Passage Rock, Man O War, and Waiheke Gin Distillery).
• a knowledgeable local guide with commentary on history and hidden gems.
• scenic stops including views of Man O War Bay where Captain Cook anchored.

Options for this experience

2 options

Up to 15 people · Guide in English10:40

Up to 6 people · Guide in English10:40

You see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates & prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:40

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Under 18: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 18

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “We pick you up from Ferry at Matiatia or your accommodation on Waiheke. Look out for your Tour Guide and the KiwiConnect Van”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Kiwi Connect - Auckland & Waiheke Island Tours

Is this one for you?Book the private tour for two if you're traveling as a couple or small group and want the van and guide's full attention. Choose the standard Far End option if you're a larger party (up to 12) and prefer to share the experience and the cost. The remote vineyards and long scenic drives mean this tour suits anyone comfortable spending 5 hours on the road with tastings along the way, and the optional lunch at Man O War lets you decide how much time to spend eating.

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Top questions

What vineyards does the Far End tour visit?

The tour includes tastings at Passage Rock Vineyard, Man O War, and Waiheke Gin Distillery. Man O War is the main stop, where you taste three wines and can order lunch or swim in the bay. The other two venues each offer tastings as well, for a total of up to 12 across the day.

Does the tour include food, or is lunch extra?

Lunch at Man O War is optional and costs extra. You can order from shared plates or à la carte menus if you choose to eat. The tastings at all three venues are included in the tour price.

How does pickup work on Waiheke Island?

The van picks you up from Matiatia Ferry or from a custom location on the island if you're staying at accommodation elsewhere. Let the operator know where you need to be collected when you book.

What is the minimum age for this tour?

You must be at least 18 years old to participate, as the tour includes wine and gin tastings throughout the day.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes, swimming in Man O War Bay is optional during the stop there. Bring a swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip, though it's not required.

Why is this called the Far End tour?

The Far End tour reaches the remote parts of Waiheke Island that most visitors don't explore, moving beyond the main settlements to vineyards and coastal views in the quieter corners of the island.