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.
Similar Nearby
Explore some of the other offerings nearby to Waiheke Distilling Co 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!
Stony Batter Tunnels
Stony Batter Tunnels: A Journey Through Waiheke's WWII Legacy
Tucked away on the remote eastern edge of Waiheke Island lies one of New Zealand's most fascinating military heritage sites: the Stony Batter Tunnels. Part engineering marvel, part historical archive, and part underground adventure, this WWII-era fortress offers visitors an immersive step back in time while surrounded by some of the island’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
Historical Significance
The story of Stony Batter begins in the early 1940s, when the fear of a Japanese invasion prompted the New Zealand government to strengthen coastal defences. Constructed during World War II, the site was intended to serve as a critical link in Auckland’s defence network, with its location chosen for the commanding views over the Hauraki Gulf and the strategic access it offered.
Work began in 1943, involving the excavation of more than 1.2 kilometres of tunnels and chambers using methods adapted from railway construction. It was a labour-intensive project, built primarily by hand with picks, shovels, and dynamite. The site was to host three 9.2-inch guns, but only two were ever installed—and none were fired in combat. The war's end in 1945 rendered the fort obsolete, and it was decommissioned shortly after, lying dormant for decades.
Architectural and Engineering Marvel
Despite never being activated in battle, the Stony Batter Tunnels are a stunning example of mid-century military engineering. Descending up to seven storeys underground, the network includes gun emplacements, ammunition stores, plotting rooms, communications hubs, and reinforced bunkers designed to survive bombardment. The tunnels are broad, high-ceilinged, and extremely well-ventilated, reflecting their planned use as a long-term defensive stronghold.
The design borrowed heavily from techniques used in New Zealand’s early railway tunnels, with a focus on structural integrity and sustainable air flow. Thick concrete reinforcements, vaulted ceilings, and minimal lighting give visitors a striking sense of stepping into the past.
Restoration and Public Access
For years the tunnels remained sealed off, visited only by adventurous locals. In 2020, Fort Stony Batter Heritage Park Ltd. began a full restoration effort, ensuring the tunnels were safe, accessible, and interpretively rich. Today, the site is open to the public for guided tours, complete with historical displays, restored rooms, and stories from both wartime operations and the years of restoration.
The tunnels now serve as both a museum and a venue for local art and cultural events. Some chambers have been repurposed to host exhibitions, musical performances, and even historical re-enactments. These additions make the experience dynamic and layered, appealing to a broad spectrum of visitors.
Getting There
Reaching Stony Batter is an adventure in itself. The eastern end of Waiheke Island is rugged and relatively undeveloped, but that's part of the appeal. From Matiatia Ferry Terminal, the drive takes approximately 40–50 minutes. The route winds through farmland, native bush, and scenic coastline.
For those without a car, the Eastern Explorer Bus runs Wednesday through Sunday, syncing with morning ferries from Auckland. This hop-on hop-off service provides a scenic ride across the island, ending at Man O’ War Bay with a transfer to Stony Batter.
An increasingly popular option is the direct ferry to Man O’ War Bay, which operates during the high season. From there, it's a 30-minute walk or short shuttle to the entrance of the historic reserve.
Opening Times and Tour Information
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Tours: Guided tours run roughly every 30 minutes and last about 60–75 minutes.
Booking: Recommended in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.
Accessibility: The tunnels are spacious, but not fully wheelchair accessible due to some uneven surfaces and slopes.
Admission: Modest fees apply, which contribute directly to site maintenance and restoration.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes
A jacket or warm layer (the tunnels maintain a cool temperature year-round)
Water and snacks (there is no café on site)
A camera (photography is allowed, though flash is discouraged in certain areas)
What Else to Do Nearby
Visiting the tunnels is only part of what the eastern end of Waiheke offers:
Stony Batter Walking Track
A scenic 4 km loop winds through volcanic boulders, native bush, and panoramic viewpoints. Informative signs along the way explain the area's geology, birdlife, and wartime context. It's a moderate walk suitable for most fitness levels.
Opopo Bay Track
This lesser-known 1.2 km walk descends through quiet forest to a secluded gravel beach. It’s ideal for picnics and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and swimming in calm waters.
Man O’ War Vineyard
Just a short drive from the tunnels is Waiheke’s only beachfront cellar door. Man O’ War offers wine tastings, woodfired pizzas, seasonal platters, and full lunch service. The views across the bay and relaxed setting make it a perfect post-tour stop.
The Waiheke Distilling Co.
Perched in the hills near the tunnels, this small-batch gin distillery uses local botanicals and spring water to craft distinctive spirits. The distillery’s tasting deck offers expansive views and a relaxing vibe for an afternoon drink.
Fishing and Kayaking
The remote bays on this side of the island offer excellent conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Visitors often bring or rent gear from Matiatia or Oneroa and make a day of it.
Local Tip
Start early and give yourself the whole day. There are no supermarkets or major shops on this side of the island, so pack your essentials. But what you get in return is worth it: peace, quiet, and a side of Waiheke that feels worlds away from the crowds.
Try combining your tunnel visit with lunch at Man O’ War and a walk to Opopo Bay for the ultimate east-end experience.
The Stony Batter Tunnels are more than a military relic—they’re a living chapter of Waiheke’s story. They connect visitors to the ingenuity and resilience of a wartime generation, while offering one of the most unique and atmospheric experiences on the island.
Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good adventure, Stony Batter delivers on all fronts. It’s a reminder that Waiheke is more than vineyards and beaches—it's a place of layers, legacy, and lasting impressions.
Plan your visit, lace up your walking shoes, and take a trip underground into one of New Zealand’s most compelling historic sites.
Currently closed, next open Saturday
11:00am - 3:00pm
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Man O' War Vineyards
Sip, Savor, and Sea: Man O' War, Your Gateway to Waiheke's Unique Beachfront Winery Tasting Experience
For an unparalleled wine experience, you quite literally can’t go past Man O’ War — because it’s at the very end of the road. Located on the remote eastern tip of Waiheke Island, Man O’ War is not only home to the island’s only beachfront tasting room, but it also boasts one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking coastal winery settings. It’s a destination in itself — and well worth the journey.
Stretching across 4,500 acres of rugged coastal beauty, rolling hills, and lush farmland, Man O’ War Estate is Waiheke’s largest vineyard operation. In fact, around 75 of the island’s 100 vineyards are located within the Man O’ War boundaries. Despite this expansive size, the experience here feels personal, relaxed, and authentically island-style.
The Only Beachfront Wine Tasting in New Zealand
What makes Man O’ War truly one-of-a-kind is its Tasting Room, nestled right on the shores of Man O’ War Bay. Here, you can sip estate-grown Syrah, Bordeaux blends, and aromatic whites with your toes in the sand and the waves lapping just metres away. It’s not just unique to Waiheke — it’s the only beachfront winery tasting room in the entire country.
The setting is casual yet stunning. Think picnic tables under the pohutukawa trees, families playing pétanque, and wine lovers lounging with a chilled rosé. There’s a feeling that time slows down here — and you’ll want to linger.
The Tasting Room offers flights of current release wines, with the option to purchase bottles to enjoy on-site or take home. A rustic kitchen menu offers wood-fired pizzas, seasonal platters, fresh salads, and other local bites designed to complement the wines. It's the perfect combination of flavour, nature, and Waiheke charm.
A Winery Steeped in History and Character
Man O’ War takes its name from the historic bay where Captain James Cook anchored in 1769 and noted the area's tall, straight trees — ideal for naval ship masts. That sense of place and legacy continues through the vineyard today.
The estate is composed of 76 individual hillside blocks, planted across diverse microclimates and soil profiles, from volcanic clay to steep coastal slopes. This patchwork approach allows the winemakers to craft complex, elegant wines, with distinctive varietal expression. The result is a portfolio that includes critically acclaimed Syrah, Bordeaux-style blends (like their flagship “Dreadnought” and “Ironclad”), Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Rosé.
Many of these wines have become icons in their own right — with Man O’ War frequently recognised among the top wineries in New Zealand for its innovation and commitment to quality.
Perfect for Corporate Events, Group Getaways & Celebrations
Man O’ War isn’t just a tasting room — it’s also an incredible option for corporate groups, wedding parties, and group celebrations. Destination Waiheke can work with you to arrange private transport to and from the bay, as well as coordinate a tailored experience to suit your team’s needs.
Looking for team-building with a twist? Start with a vineyard tour and tasting flight, then move on to a relaxed lunch under the trees or a friendly pétanque tournament. Want to impress clients? Host a long table lunch with locally sourced cuisine and wine pairings in one of the estate’s private beachfront spaces.
Because it’s off the beaten path, Man O’ War offers true privacy, tranquillity, and immersion — perfect for those who want a luxurious yet laid-back experience far from the usual boardroom environment.
Getting There Is Half the Fun
Man O’ War is a destination winery in the truest sense. It’s approximately a 45-minute scenic drive from the main ferry terminals at Matiatia or Kennedy Point — a journey that takes you through rolling farmland, native bush, and coastal cliffs. Destination Waiheke offers private transfers for groups, and if you really want to go all out, you can even arrive by helicopter or boat.
For those planning a full-day adventure, Man O’ War pairs beautifully with stops at other nearby vineyards or adventure activities, like e-biking the east coast trails, archery, or kayaking in the bay.
Whether you’re planning a birthday, team retreat, or just want to explore Waiheke’s hidden corners, Man O’ War delivers something extraordinary: wine with a view, food with flair, and hospitality that’s warm, down-to-earth, and 100% island style.
Currently closed, next open Wednesday
11:00am - 4:00pm
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Passage Rock Wines
Unwind in Nature at Passage Rock Vineyard: A Family-Friendly Waiheke Destination with Award-Winning Wines
Looking for the perfect Waiheke Island experience that combines award-winning wine, stunning scenery, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere? Welcome to Passage Rock Vineyard — one of Waiheke’s most loved destinations for locals, day-trippers, and event organisers alike.
Tucked away on the peaceful eastern end of Waiheke, Passage Rock offers a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class hospitality. Located between a marine reserve and a forest and bird sanctuary, the vineyard feels like a true escape — a place where you can sip, savour, and slow down.
Whether you're a wine lover, a foodie, a wedding planner, or simply someone looking for a sunny lawn and a chilled afternoon, Passage Rock has something for everyone.
Award-Winning Wines & the Island’s Most Celebrated Syrah
Established in 1993, Passage Rock has earned its place as a cornerstone of the Waiheke wine scene. Their Reserve Syrah is the most awarded wine on the island, consistently recognised for its bold flavours and impeccable structure. Alongside this, the vineyard produces a selection of other premium varietals, including Viognier, Pinot Gris, Merlot blends, and Chardonnay — all crafted with passion and precision.
Wine tastings are available at the Passage Rock Cellar Door, which is open from Friday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm for most of the year (except during a short winter break). Knowledgeable staff guide you through the range, helping you find the perfect drop — whether you're new to wine or a seasoned connoisseur.
Relax at the Passage Rock Bistro
The Passage Rock Bistro is where great food meets great wine in a warm, rustic setting surrounded by rows of Syrah vines. Open Friday to Sunday from 11:30am to 4pm, the bistro offers a seasonal menu that reflects the best of Waiheke produce, with dishes crafted to pair perfectly with Passage Rock wines.
You can opt for their recommended wine matches or choose your own favourites to share. The relaxed indoor-outdoor setting makes it perfect for long lunches, birthday celebrations, or spontaneous weekend outings.
With tables nestled under shady trees, friendly service, and an easy-going vibe, it's one of the most welcoming spots on the island — especially for families and groups.
A Place for All Ages
What makes Passage Rock especially unique is its family-friendly atmosphere. While adults sip wine and enjoy the bistro, kids are free to roam and play with the lawn games scattered across the grounds. From giant Jenga to petanque and bean bag toss, there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.
This makes it the perfect venue for multi-generational gatherings, birthday parties, and even corporate family days out.
Dogs are welcome too (on a lead), and there’s plenty of space to spread out a picnic rug or simply unwind under the sun.
Weddings & Private Events at Passage Rock
Passage Rock’s stunning setting and warm hospitality also make it a popular choice for weddings, reunions, and private events. Surrounded by vines and backed by lush native bush, it offers a truly romantic setting for your big day.
The venue can accommodate larger parties, and the team is experienced in working alongside planners to create tailored experiences — from vineyard ceremonies to relaxed receptions and multi-course feasts. The intimate vibe and picturesque surroundings create the perfect backdrop for photos, while the top-tier wine and cuisine speak for themselves.
If you're planning a group celebration, Destination Waiheke can also organise transport, ferry tickets, accommodation, and other activities to complement your time at Passage Rock.
Make a Day of It
Because of its location on the eastern side of the island, Passage Rock is often less crowded than central wineries — adding to its appeal as a peaceful getaway. The drive itself is part of the adventure, taking you through rolling farmland, coastal roads, and rural charm. It’s well worth the 25-minute scenic trip from Matiatia Wharf.
Pair your visit with a beach walk, a stop at Man O’ War Bay, or a bike tour for the perfect full-day itinerary.
Currently closed, next open Saturday
12:00pm - 4:30pm
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Poderi Crisci
Savor the Essence of Italy on Waiheke at Poderi Crisci
One of the smallest winery operations on Waiheke, Poderi Crisci produces a range of fine European-inspired wines across the spectrum of white and red, specializing in Italian varieties, using traditional winemaking techniques with sustainable and biodynamic practices employed throughout the vineyard and gardens.
Home to the acclaimed Poderi Crisci Restaurant, renowned for the Italian Long Lunch, degustation style dinners, and wine tasting experiences. The gardens and surroundings create the perfect setting for weddings and functions from 30 - 130 guests, and the team at Poderi Crisci always offers a superb level of Waiheke-Italian Hospitality.
Facilities include a winery, restaurant, tasting room, and gardens with guided tours of the property available on request.
Currently closed, next open Thursday
12:00pm - 3:30pm
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