Waiheke Island is only a 30-minute ferry from Auckland, but it feels like the world’s away. It’s home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning vineyards and beaches. This article will show you how to plan your best Waiheke vineyard tours. It will also give tips on navigating the island and its wineries to get the most out of your visit.
Choose Your Transportation:
One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when planning your Waiheke tours is how to get there. If you’re staying in Auckland and want to spend a day on the island, then a ferry makes the most sense. The ferries run from Orewa Beach in north Auckland every hour and take about 30 minutes.
Several bus lines go directly from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island; however, these can take up to two hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Try Group Tours:
Group tours are a great option if you’re not much of a planner and want to ensure you get the best deal. Most companies offer half-day tours from Auckland that take in several wineries and give you plenty of time to explore on your own.
These tours are also great for those who want to meet other travellers but don’t want to spend hours planning every detail. Many companies offer these tours, so it’s easy to find one that suits your needs and budget.
Choose Your Vineyard:
There are many vineyards to choose from in the Auckland area, so you must do your research before you go. Some wineries offer tasting experiences, while others focus on a unique experience. For example, some vineyards offer wine tastings and food pairings, while others feature art galleries or even accommodation options.
Make Sure The Tour Isn’t Too Long:
If you’re planning a winery tour, ensure it isn’t too long. It is especially important if you’re bringing children along with you. If the tour lasts longer than three hours, your group may become bored or tired and decide not to go back again!
If you’re planning to go on a long tour, make sure there are breaks along the way. These can be used as opportunities for your group to rest or eat lunch. If you’re unsure how long a particular tour will take, ask before booking!
Make Sure There Is Plenty of Tastings and Snacks:
Make sure you have a good variety of food and wine. It’s important to plan what to do if you get hungry or thirsty, especially if there are kids in your group.
Make sure there is plenty of water as well. The Waiheke island is very hot and sunny during the day so staying hydrated is important!
It’s also a good idea to bring some snacks with you. It’s always nice to have something to munch on while touring around. Not only does it help pass the time, but it can also be a great way for your group members to get to know each other better! If you’re planning on wine tasting, ensure you have plenty of water.
Don’t Forget The Camera:
Don’t forget your camera! Waiheke Island is a scenic paradise that’s best experienced in person, but it’s nice to look back on your trip and see how beautiful it was every once in a while. Of course, you’ll want to take plenty of pictures while you’re there, so don’t forget your camera!
If you don’t have one, we recommend bringing an inexpensive point-and-shoot or smartphone. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra memory card with you just in case.
Conclusion
Waiheke Island is an incredible place to visit, but it cannot be easy to plan a Waiheke vineyard tour without any knowledge of the island. Therefore, the key to having an amazing vineyard tour on Waiheke Island is to plan it. By choosing your transportation, group size, vineyard itinerary and more beforehand, you’ll be able to make sure that each stop along the way is perfect for you!
