Today’s post is all about the Waiheke Island winery tour, which was the absolute highlight I was looking forward to the most during my time in Auckland, New Zealand! 🍷🍇
I went solo and bought a round-trip ferry ticket that came bundled with the Hop-On Hop-Off bus pass, visiting a total of four different vineyards throughout the day.
If you buy the ticket directly at the harbour kiosk, it costs around $99 NZD, but booking online in advance is actually cheaper.
BOOK WAIHEKE FERRY & TOUR TICKETS ⬇️
🍷 Check Ferry & Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass Options on Viator
I’ve attached the Hop-On Hop-Off bus timetable and route map below for your reference!
(Quick note: The Hop-On Hop-Off bus drops you right in front of the vineyard entrances, which is super convenient. But local public buses run pretty frequently too, and you can just tap on with Apple Pay, so that’s another solid option to consider).
Here is my honest review of the four vineyards I visited!
1. Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant
Mudbrick is easily the most famous vineyard on the island, and the property is massive! I made this my very first stop of the day.
The views here were absolutely insane. Since I only wanted to do a tasting, I headed straight to the tasting room and went with the Summer Tasting menu.
They explain each wine as they pour it for you, and then you’re free to take your glass outside, sit down, and enjoy it at your own pace. Sipping a fresh New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc with that ocean view was pure magic.
They also sell bottles on-site, ranging from affordable $39 NZD options to high-end bottles. The staff were super friendly, the views were gorgeous, and the wine was fantastic! now I completely see why this place is so famous!
2. Stonyridge Vineyard
To be completely honest, this was my least favorite spot among the four.
They close at 3:00 PM and I arrived at 2:00 PM. While some staff were nice, one staff member kept giving me uncomfortable pressure, repeatedly complaining that I only had 25 minutes left. Out of all my overseas travels, this was a rare, unpleasant experience for me, so I personally wouldn’t recommend it.
The view here was also the least impressive among the vineyards I visited.
3. Tantalus Estate
I hadn’t planned on visiting Tantalus at all, but as the bus drove past, the gorgeous cypress trees lining the entrance caught my eye, and I jumped off on impulse!
They stay open until 5:00 PM, which makes it a great spot if you’re looking for a vineyard that stays open a bit later. And the views were just stunning.
By this point, I couldn’t handle drinking any more wine, so I ordered a fresh orange juice and a plate of fish and chips! and wow, it turned out to be an absolute hidden food gem on Waiheke Island! I’ve had fish and chips in many countries, but this was honestly the best I’ve ever had. They top it with fresh green onions, which totally cuts through the grease. The staff were super sweet too!
4. Batch Winery
Another spontaneous stop while riding the bus, and to sum it up, this place takes 1st place for views across the entire island! ✨💖
It doesn’t seem super famous among travelers yet, but you absolutely have to come here. Because it sits at the highest elevation on Waiheke Island, you can look down over the entire island, green pastures, and the ocean all at once.
I arrived right near closing time so I couldn’t do a tasting, but just walking around the property was worth every second. They also stay open until 5:00 PM. Sitting under the trees on a chair and looking out at the bay is a vibe that photos just can’t capture. Honestly, I liked the view here even more than Mudbrick!
🍷 Ready for a winery day trip? Check ticket options here 👉 Check Waiheke Ferry & Bus Pass Rates on Viator
While I explored the island on my own, if you’re a serious wine enthusiast or want a more professional tasting experience, going with an expert guide is definitely the way to go. Having a local guide walk you through the history, wine notes, and pairings makes a huge difference.
🍷 RECOMMENDED GUIDED WAIHEKE WINE TOURS 👉 Check Guided Waiheke Wine Tours on Viator
Final Thoughts
Who says the North Island of New Zealand is quiet? Waiheke Island is a absolute must visit!!
Also, if you’re looking for a great place to stay in central Auckland, the hotel I stayed at was super convenient for catching the ferry:
👉 Read My Full M Social Auckland Hotel Review