Waiheke Island is often called the Island of Wine, and for good reason. With sun-drenched slopes, salty sea breezes, and fertile soils, the island produces some of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most celebrated wines. Visitors flock here for tastings, long lunches and vineyard views that sweep over the Hauraki Gulf. Whether you’re after award-winning Bordeaux blends, boutique cellar doors or modern dining experiences, these five wineries showcase the very best of Waiheke
Mudbrick Vineyard
When people talk about the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island, Mudbrick Vineyard always makes the list. This iconic estate is a true destination, blending world-class wines with one of the island’s most romantic settings. From the moment you wander along stone paths through fragrant lavender gardens, the atmosphere feels timeless. The cellar door opens onto sweeping views across the vines, the Hauraki Gulf, and even the Auckland skyline — a backdrop that makes every visit feel unforgettable.
Mudbrick is celebrated for its elegant reds, especially Syrah and Merlot-Cabernet blends that capture the character of Waiheke’s sun-soaked slopes. Their winemaking combines tradition with innovation, producing vintages that have won acclaim both locally and internationally. Pairing these wines with food elevates the experience even further. The fine-dining restaurant serves seasonal, locally inspired dishes, while the casual bistro offers lighter bites — both designed to match beautifully with Mudbrick’s portfolio.
But Mudbrick is more than a winery. It’s a place where people come to celebrate life’s milestones. With luxury cottages and lodges tucked among the vines, it’s easy to see why couples choose this spot for weddings, anniversaries or romantic weekends. Add in long-table lunches, sunset tastings and private dining experiences and you’ll quickly understand why Mudbrick is considered one of the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island.
Whether you’re here for a wine flight, a leisurely lunch or the magic of a golden sunset, Mudbrick offers more than just a tasting — it creates memories. This is a winery that embodies the spirit of Waiheke: warm hospitality, bold flavours and scenery that will stay with you long after your glass is empty.
Batch Winery
Perched at the highest vineyard point on the island, Batch Winery offers not only stunning views but also some of the most innovative wines on Waiheke. Its name comes from the “small-batch” approach to winemaking, ensuring every vintage is crafted with care and creativity. If you’re chasing sweeping panoramas with your pour, this is the place to be.
Visitors love the vibrant atmosphere, with options ranging from tasting flights to their playful “High Tea with a Twist”, where wine replaces the usual teapot. Platters of local produce and wood-fired pizzas make it a relaxed yet memorable stop. The casual, welcoming style at Batch contrasts beautifully with some of the more formal estates, giving it a special place among the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island.
It’s also a family-friendly destination with wide lawns and open spaces perfect for enjoying the sunshine. The focus here is on enjoyment and accessibility, proving that fine wine doesn’t need to feel intimidating. Batch captures the essence of Waiheke’s wine culture: fun, flavourful and endlessly scenic.
Stonyridge Vineyard
No list of the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island would be complete without Stonyridge Vineyard. This legendary estate made waves in the 1980s when it introduced Bordeaux-style reds to New Zealand, putting Waiheke firmly on the global wine map. Today, it remains world-renowned for its flagship Larose blend, a rich, powerful red that collectors covet.
Surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, Stonyridge has a distinctly Mediterranean vibe. Long lunches under the vines, paired with bold reds, have become a rite of passage for visitors to Waiheke. The menu leans into Mediterranean flavours, designed to complement their exceptional Bordeaux-inspired wines.
Stonyridge isn’t just about wine — it’s about heritage and reputation. This is where locals and international travellers alike come to immerse themselves in the story of Waiheke winemaking. If you want to experience the vineyard that truly defined the island’s place in the wine world, Stonyridge is a must.
Tantalus Estate
Modern, striking and sophisticated, Tantalus Estate is one of the most impressive stops among the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island. Its architecture and manicured grounds make a statement from the moment you arrive, setting the tone for a luxurious experience.
Tantalus is known for its elegant wines, including Syrah, Chardonnay and innovative blends that showcase the island’s diversity. Beyond wine, it’s also home to Alibi Brewing Co., a craft brewery on-site that broadens the tasting experience. Whether you’re a wine lover, beer enthusiast or simply in search of fine dining, Tantalus delivers it all.
The estate’s restaurant is a highlight, with seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Combined with attentive service and a refined atmosphere, dining at Tantalus feels like a celebration in itself. It’s the kind of place where you can linger for hours, savouring both the flavours and the scenery.
Te Motu Winery
For something more intimate and soulful, Te Motu Winery is the perfect addition to the 5 best wineries on Waiheke Island. Family-owned and operated, it exudes rustic charm while producing some of the island’s most age-worthy reds. Their flagship Te Motu blend, a Bordeaux-style red, is known for its ability to cellar beautifully, developing complexity over time.
The onsite restaurant, The Shed, is equally special. With a focus on seasonal produce and hearty, flavourful dishes, it feels warm and welcoming — like sharing a meal with friends. The slower pace here offers a refreshing contrast to larger, busier estates, making Te Motu an ideal spot for travellers who want to relax and connect with the land.
Te Motu is all about authenticity. It’s a place where you can sit among the vines, enjoy a glass of something special and soak up the unhurried rhythm of Waiheke life.
Final Thoughts
With over 30 vineyards across the island, you’ll find endless opportunities to sip and explore. These five are some of our personal favourites but many more deserve your time if you have the chance. The best wineries on Waiheke Island showcase the perfect blend of bold flavours, unforgettable scenery and warm hospitality — a combination that makes Waiheke one of the most exciting wine regions in the world.
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“He inu wai kōrari, he tino reka.”
The nectar of the flax flower is very sweet.