Waiheke Island has rapidly become one of New Zealand's most sought-after tourist destinations, offering visitors a unique mix of wineries, adventure and fresh seafood just a short ferry ride from Auckland.
Located just 40 minutes from Auckland CBD by the Fullers ferry, the island has become a popular day trip and overnight escape for travellers chasing scenic beaches, award-winning food and world-class wine.
Waiheke Island: A Wine and Adventure Paradise
Morning Show reporter Kylie Gillies explored the island thanks to Tourism New Zealand, taking in everything from a 900-metre forest zipline to wine tastings and fresh local oysters.
"It is the perfect day trip from the city or even an overnighter for those who want to stay just a little bit longer," Gillies said.
Forest Flight Zipline at Man O' War Winery
One of the island's standout attractions is the Forest Flight Zipline at Man O' War winery, which sends visitors soaring through ancient kauri forest with sweeping coastal views across the Hauraki Gulf.
"That is simply the best experience," she said.
The zipline ends just steps from Man O' War's beachfront tasting room, where visitors can sample wines produced from the property's sprawling coastal vineyards.
"So, I've landed head-first into a charcuterie board and some chardonnay," Gillies joked.
Wine Tasting and Vineyard Insights
Alex from Man O' War said Waiheke's island climate played a huge role in shaping the wines.
"We're surrounded by the big ocean here, so you're getting all that freshness, all that maritime influence in the wines, as well as those rich, deep, concentrated reds which you can get from those sheltered sites," he said.
"It's really got everything."
The winery's Valhalla chardonnay has become one of its most sought-after drops.
"So going back to that influence of the ocean ... you're going to get that real line of salinity through there," Alex explained.
"But the other key factor here is around the volcanic soils. So that again is adding its own character to the wine."
Gillies was equally impressed by the vineyard's flagship Ironclad blend.
"Well that's special too. You're making it hard to pick a favourite," she said with a laugh.
Fresh Oysters at The Oyster Inn
The island's food scene is another major drawcard, particularly its fresh oysters sourced directly from nearby waters.
Before leaving Waiheke, Gillies stopped at The Oyster Inn in Oneroa Village for a lesson in shucking.
During the busy summer period, the restaurant serves up to 200 dozen oysters every day.
"In summertime, we have a very full restaurant. We go through about 150 to 200 dozen a day," The Oyster Inn chef said.
Instant Holiday Mode
Locals say the island's appeal lies in how quickly visitors can switch into holiday mode after arriving.
"The minute you arrive it feels like you're on holiday already. You can see the sea, the beautiful sandy beaches. It feels like you're in a completely different place," the chef said.
Gillies agreed.
"I can vouch for that because I'm going to be working and I haven't worked for many hours now," she joked.
