Auckland wine tasting tours to Waiheke Island

Wine tasting in New Zealand usually conjures images of breathtakingly scenic travels through countryside regions such as Marlborough or Hawkes Bay, but there are excellent wine experiences to be had closer to the urban centres.

There are a number of renowned wine estates within a hour’s drive of the central business district (CBD) of the country’s largest city Auckland, including Kumeu, Matakana and Waiheke Island. Wine tasting in Auckland typically ventures into these areas, of which Kumeu is the oldest wine region near the city and home to a picturesque countryside setting scattered with boutique vineyards and fruit orchards.

Matakana is an equally divine destination for Auckland wine tasting, not least for its beautiful beaches, a burgeoning local arts scene and superb wines from some unique wine estates. However, Waiheke Island, which is known as the ‘island of wine’ for its many vineyards and wineries, is the most recommended region for wine tasting Auckland has to offer. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from the city, Waiheke is a haven for Auckland wine tasting tours where you can sample fine vintages while looking out over spectacular views of the countryside and Hauraki Gulf.

Visitors can also wander along the white sand of stunning beaches such as Oneroa and Onetagi – two of the island’s finest – and swim in crystal clear sheltered waters. And, thrill seekers can enjoy hiking trails, scenic flights, horse riding, archery or soaring above the treetops on a zip line. The island’s proximity to the surrounding ocean has a profound influence on its viticulture, with the waters acting as both a fan and insulator to moderate temperatures and extend a long, mild growing season that accommodates a greater variety of grapes.

New Zealand’s most densely populated island was ranked the fifth best destination in the world to visit by the Lonely Planet in 2016, while being voted the fourth best island in the world by Conde Nast – and it’s not difficult to understand why. As well as more than 20 high-class wineries, many with relaxed restaurants onsite, Waiheke is a haven for artists with the main town scattered with charming galleries, craft boutiques and an inspiring sculpture park.

Visitors can also wander along the white sand of stunning beaches such as Oneroa and Onetagi – two of the island’s finest – and swim in crystal clear sheltered waters. And, thrill seekers can enjoy hiking trails, scenic flights, horse riding, archery or soaring above the treetops on a zip line. The island’s proximity to the surrounding ocean has a profound influence on its viticulture, with the waters acting as both a fan and insulator to moderate temperatures and extend a long, mild growing season that accommodates a greater variety of grapes.

new zealand wine tastings - Wine Paths

A typical Auckland wine tasting tour involves visiting several vineyards accompanied by a professional guide to explain the region’s characteristics and the wine making process before the opportunity to sample premium wines often paired with gourmet local cuisine. Wine tasting in Auckland’s Waiheke Island will introduce you to some internationally acclaimed artisan wines, which are dominated by red varietals that account for almost 60% of the island’s entire production – with Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon being the most widely planted grapes. There has been an increase in the white varietals in recent years, with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris among the preferred grapes used.

At Wine Paths, our local expert can organise exclusive Auckland wine tasting tours from the city, which can include elaborate tastings, luxury accommodation, fine dining experiences and some unique activities. All of our private wine tasting in Auckland tours can be tailor made to meet your exact specifications, ensuring every detail is taken care so you can relax and revel in some of the best wines from the southern hemisphere and beyond.

Contact Wine Paths for more inspirational ideas before planning an Auckland wine tasting tour of Waiheke Island.


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