Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a must-visit for anyone exploring the area. It’s not just a hop across the water; it’s a journey into a world where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see and the pace of life slows to a leisurely stroll. Trust me, you’ll want to stay at least overnight, but 48 hours is ideal to soak it all in.

On our first day, we booked a guided wine tour, which conveniently collected us from the ferry. Pro tip: book an early tour so you don’t have to worry about your luggage before check-in. We visited three wineries as part of the tour and then got dropped off at a fourth for lunch. Surprisingly, I found myself loving Chardonnay – something I’d never been fond of. Waiheke’s Chardonnay is different, with a unique flavor profile that’s more crisp and tropical than the usual buttery varieties. After lunch, we were dropped off at our Airbnb. For dinner, we headed to the Oyster Inn. New Zealand oysters are among the best we’ve had anywhere, and these did not disappoint.

The next morning, we grabbed coffee and pastries at The Annex – the perfect start to the day. We spent the rest of the day exploring more wineries on our own, ending with a late lunch of oysters and truffle fries at Tantalus Estate. This combo is a vibe. Tantalus is also a brewery, so we enjoyed some beer and bubbly – a nice change from all the wine. We spent the rest of the day at the beach, relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. Waiheke Island is one of those places that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and content. The combination of stunning landscapes, delicious food, and incredible wine makes it a destination you won’t forget.

Day 1

Casita Miro

Obsidian

Kennedy Point

Mudbrick

Island gelato

The Oyster inn

Day 2

The Annex

Te motu

Stonyridge

Tantalus estate