Uncover WWII Secrets on Waiheke with Fort Stony Batter Tunnels

Fort Stony Batter Tunnels is a WWII Coastal Defence Fortress located at the Eastern end of Waiheke Island. The location was chosen for its strategic advantage of an uninterrupted view of the Hauraki Gulf and shipping approach to Auckland city.

Commissioned in 1942 under absolute military secrecy, the complex comprises 1.2km’s of subterranean passages, chambers and stairwells all tunneled by hand. The fortress was designed to take direct enemy bombardment and is in a very high state of preservation. This is an Architectural, Engineering and Construction marvel.

We offer guided tours of the subterranean tunnel complex in 2 options:

A Highlight Tour to Magazines, Gun Stores, and Passages extending 200m into the complex arriving at art galleries and performance spaces @25minutes.

And, a Heritage Tour taking in all of the Highlight then descending 7 stories underground to the Engine Room and Command Bunker, exiting into an early growth forest @ 50 minutes.

Currently closed
Thursday
11:00am - 3:00pm
Friday
11:00am - 3:00pm
Saturday
11:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday
11:00am - 3:00pm

Similar Nearby

Explore some of the other offerings nearby to Stony Batter Tunnels below. Waiheke Island has a wide range of venues and activities to suit every person so you're bound to find something you'll love on your next visit!

Jurassic Ridge

Discover the uniquely crafted Waiheke wine of Jurassic Ridge

Jurassic Ridge is a family-owned vineyard and winery located in the historic Church Bay area on Waiheke Island. Known for its unique, single vineyard, single varietal wines, Jurassic Ridge emphasizes sustainable, low-intervention viticulture. Visitors can enjoy tastings of their cellar-aged, natural wines, which are crafted using organic principles and minimal winemaking intervention to highlight the distinct terroir of the vineyard.

The winery offers a personalized tasting experience at their Cellar Door, where guests can sample and purchase their latest releases. Jurassic Ridge also provides online sales with nationwide shipping, making it easy for wine enthusiasts to enjoy their exceptional wines from anywhere in New Zealand. For those visiting Waiheke Island, a stop at Jurassic Ridge promises a memorable experience of tasting wines that reflect millions of years of geological history.

Currently closed, next open Wednesday

11:00am - 1:00pm

2:00pm - 4:30pm

View business page

Waiheke Distilling Co

Explore Award-Winning Gins and Spirits at Waiheke Distilling Company

Waiheke Distilling Company is a boutique craft distillery known for their award-winning handcrafted spirits, which include gin, vodka, and liqueurs.

The distillery is situated on a ridge above Cowes Bay, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy gin tastings and cocktails in their relaxed bar, which overlooks the beautiful scenery. They also offer shared plates and platters, created by their chef to match the unique botanicals of their gin range.

Their gin collection includes Red Ruby Gin, which is infused with ripe New Zealand cherries, and London Dry Gin, which is a classic gin with a twist. They also have a range of boutique spirits, including Hibiscus Honey Vodka and Kawakawa Summer Vodka.

If you’re looking for a unique experience on Waiheke Island, Waiheke Distilling Company is worth a visit. They are open Wednesdays to Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm, with additional days during the busy season.

Taste and Graze package- Buy 2 get 2 free!

Savour our award-winning craft spirits, soak up the endless views and save $140.

Package for 4 includes; G&T or Vodka Soda on arrival, guided gin or vodka tasting boards, shared cheese platter, freshly baked bread with olive oil and balsamic reduction and finish with a flourish, your choice of one of our stunning cocktails.

Redeemable for a min. of 4 guests on Wednesday-Friday and Sundays 11am - 6pm, subject to availability.

Must be booked in advance here.


Don't have a Waiheke Winter Passport? Purchase one HERE.

Currently closed, next open Wednesday

11:00am - 6:00pm

View business page

Man O' War Vineyards

Passage Rock Wines