
Visiting Auckland for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Check out our top tips for making the most of this underrated city—especially for first-timers.
Stonyridge Vineyard specializes in making Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Cermenere, and Petit Verdot wines using traditional techniques. Visitors can sample and purchase wine, and dine at the cafe amid vines and olive trees. Stonyridge is a popular part of Waiheke Island’s social life, and puts on various functions and events throughout the year, but particularly in summer. Travelers can visit independently while visiting Waiheke Island, or on guided tours focusing on food and wine. Hop-on hop-off tours of Waiheke also often include a stop at Stonyridge.
*Sample olives at Stonyridge, as well as wine: the olive trees planted in 1982 are the oldest commercial olive grove in New Zealand. *The large yoga deck at Stonyridge can be hired by groups. *Large groups can also book Stonyridge for other events, such as parties, weddings, and vineyard tours.
Waiheke is a 30-to-60-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, or a short charter flight away. It’s a popular day or overnight-trip destination, and many Waiheke residents commute to Auckland for work, so passenger ferries run regularly, and there are also some vehicle ferries. To reach Stonyridge from the ferry terminal, take a bus, taxi, or guided tour, or rent a car for your time on Waiheke.
The café at Stonyridge is open for wine tastings and meals seven days a week, from 11.30am. Saturday evening DJ sessions are often held. Waiheke Island is a popular summer destination, especially during the school vacation between late December and late January. If visiting at that time, book accommodation well ahead of time.