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Waiheke: For Food & Wine Lovers
If you're a lover of a good drop, an island get away on Waiheke is something you won't regret. Grab your partner, friends or family and book yourself in for a weekend full of good company, great wine and delicious food.
Bryce and I have an unwritten rule that gifts for birthdays and anniversaries are to be shared experiences. Given we are both foodies and also avid travelers who'd jump at any opportunity to get away, Waiheke sounded like the perfect destination for Bryce's birthday this year.
To anyone looking to spend a few nights on this little island, here are some of the places we adored as well as some tips & tricks that made our trip that much more enjoyable.
PLACES TO STAY
Although there are some backpackers and hotels on the island, we found that Airbnb was the best way to find great accommodation in Waiheke. We ended up staying in this stunning little home in the heart of Waiheke. It made our stay that much better as we spent our second night relaxing at home enjoying the tranquility of this place.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The island is deceivingly big so it is worthwhile to find accommodation that comes with a car or otherwise rent a car or scooter. The island does have a few taxi companies but we've previously found that during larger events they can be booked out for hours at a time. Also, a whole weekend's worth of taxi rides will add up very fast which was a big part of why we wanted a rental car.
Right by the ferry, there is a car and scooter rental company, super handy given how close they are to the ferry. The island does also have a bus service, but exactly where they go and how often can vary so make sure to check this.
PLACES TO GO
Almost all of these places are packed every weekend, so remember to book before your stay to make sure you don't miss out!
Perched on top of a hill, the views from Mudbrick are to be enjoyed as much as the food and wine on offer. This space is both an eclectic yet grand setting fit for a wedding, a long lunch or sunset dinner. As one of the most established wineries and restaurants on Waiheke, it is a hotspot for visitors and regulars of the island.
The menu is wholesome yet out-the-box. To start, we tried their bone marrow custard with kumara chips, something neither of us had ever had before, but thoroughly enjoyed! Our main dish was the Angus pure eye fillet with truffled potato mash on the side; a wholesome yet decadent meal. Lovers of a good Chardonnay, we had a bottle of their reserve chardonnay with our meal, a creamy textured wine with an oaky finish.
Overlooking the water, you can spot Auckland in the far distance while you enjoy a glass of your favorite drop. A clean and modern fit out offers a variety of spaces to enjoy, from a sit-down dining area to a tasting cellar and a casual on-the-lawn spot. Their garden-to-table menu is fresh and absolutely delicious. We enjoyed a mouth-watering platter with their best wine from our spot on the lawn overlooking the stunning water views.
A hidden gem, it is tucked away far into the hills of the rural side of Waiheke. The Italian flair is present in not only the food but also in the Tuscany like surroundings. The limited phone service adds to the secluded and tranquil experience, no disturbances guaranteed!
The love and care put into the food is evident in every bite. On offer is a wholesome Italian feast paired with some of the best wine on Waiheke.
PLACES WE MISSED OUT ON
There is plenty more to see on the island, it just comes down to how much you want to squeeze into your getaway. As we wanted some downtime to relax, we did miss out on some of the places we had on our list. Don't worry, we will definitely be coming back to try these out next time!
A drive down old country lanes, their tasting room is one not to be missed. Hidden in a little bay on the other side of the island, it is a serene little spot to enjoy a vino over a delicious platter.
This grand estate caught our eye on our way home from Poderi Crisci. Right next to Stonyridge, this amazing winery is a short drive from the busy hub of Oneora.
