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Discover Waiheke Island’s top vineyards with Ananda Tours on a private journey through award-winning wineries, scenic drives, and a gourmet lunch paired with local wines. Perfect for those who want a tailored wine tasting experience near Auckland.
Discover Waiheke Island’s top vineyards with Ananda Tours on a private journey through award-winning wineries, scenic drives, and a gourmet lunch paired with local wines. Perfect for those who want a tailored wine tasting experience near Auckland.
Book with Ananda Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
1,016 ratings
Operated by Ananda Tours · Auckland, Auckland
Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride from Auckland, stands out as New Zealand's premier wine destination thanks to its distinctive microclimate and passionate boutique winemakers. Ananda Tours offers a Private Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour, a tailored 5.5-hour journey through three of the island’s finest vineyards. This isn’t just wine tasting; it’s a deep dive into the island’s terroir, culture, and artisanal craftsmanship, all experienced from the comfort of a private vehicle.
The tour begins with a pickup at Matiatia Wharf, where a knowledgeable local guide leads the scenic drive. Along the way, guests hear about Waiheke’s geography—rolling volcanic hills, rich coastal soils, and native Pohutukawa trees set the landscape’s vibrant stage. The guides share stories that touch on the island's transformation from rural farmland to one of New Zealand's most celebrated viticultural areas.
Each vineyard visited reflects a unique approach to winemaking, emphasizing small-scale production and sustainable practices. At every stop, premium tasting sessions feature award-winning wines paired perfectly with insights on grape varietals native to the region. The experience includes a two-course lunch at a vineyard cellar door, carefully matched with local vintages that highlight Waiheke’s diverse palate.
Ananda Tours sets itself apart through decades of local expertise and close ties with vineyard owners, ensuring guests receive a personalized and flexible experience. Options to swap one vineyard visit for an olive oil mill tour, craft brewery sampling, or even a guided island walk allow guests to shape their day to personal tastes.
For travel enthusiasts seeking an immersive regional wine and culinary journey beyond Auckland’s city bounds, this tour offers a seamless blend of natural beauty, top-tier wine, and tailored service—a standout in New Zealand’s outdoor and gastronomic adventures.
easy.
5–6 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves light walking between vineyards.
Yes, the tour includes private vehicle transport and pick-up from any Waiheke accommodation or the Matiatia Wharf.
Absolutely, guests can replace vineyard visits with options like olive oil mills, craft breweries, or guided walks upon request.
Ferry tickets are not included but can be arranged through Ananda Tours for an additional fee.
Yes, the tour is designed for all levels and includes detailed local insights to enhance the experience.
The tour requires a minimum of two participants to run.
Yes, please advise Ananda Tours in advance to accommodate special dietary needs.
Waiheke has a rich Maori heritage, with early settlements tracing back centuries before European vineyards transformed the landscape.
Many vineyards on Waiheke practice sustainable farming, helping preserve native flora and protecting the island’s delicate ecosystems.
Ananda Tours is a family-owned tour operator based in Auckland that specialises in guided tours of Waiheke Island. For over 25 years the company has delivered small-group and private experiences focused on boutique wineries, gourmet food, olive oil production, craft breweries and local artisans. Tours range from full-day wine circuits with tastings at three vineyards and a vineyard platter lunch to curated gourmet food and wine itineraries featuring family-style lunches, oyster and honey pairings, and visits to an olive oil mill. Signature departures include The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour, The Gourmet’s Food and Wine Tour, and specialised options such as Ananda Black, Private Gourmet’s Food and Wine Tour, and The Waiheke Naturally Tour. Itineraries may include stops at Allpress Olive Groves, Three Seven Two, The Heke, and Onetangi Beach, plus art studios, gardens and distilleries. Vehicles and small group sizes support flexible, personalised service with options for private tours and bespoke routes. Guides provide local insights into Waiheke history, vineyard techniques and island culture. The company’s multi-decade experience underpins relationships with boutique producers across Waiheke, enabling access to exclusive tastings, scenic vineyard lunches and culinary pairings. Guests can expect a combination of wine tasting, food experiences, scenic driving along the Hauraki Gulf, and opportunities to explore Oneroa Village. Ananda Tours focuses on delivering knowledgeable guiding, authentic local connections and memorable island experiences suitable for food and wine lovers, small groups, and private celebrations. Booking options include small-group departures and fully customisable private itineraries for special occasions and seasonal events.
Book with Ananda Tours