Waiheke Wine Tours was launched at the beginning of the Covid pandemic, driven by a dream to create one of New Zealand’s best wine tour companies. The first few years brought many challenges, and there were moments when it felt like that dream might slip away. What kept it alive was a deep love for Waiheke Island and a commitment to showcasing everything that makes it special.
From the very beginning, our focus has always been on authenticity and connection — tūtakitanga. We proudly hire local guides who know Waiheke Island inside and out, and we work closely with the island’s vineyards, artisans, and small businesses. Every tour is designed to share the true spirit of Te Motu Arai Roa — Waiheke Island — through its landscapes, stories, wines, food, and people.
We believe a great tour goes beyond tasting wine. It’s about whakapapa (the deep connection between people and the land), understanding the stories that shape this place, and feeling the wairua (spirit) of the island.
Each journey with us reflects the essence of manaakitanga — the Māori value of caring for others with warmth and respect. We invite you to slow down, connect, and experience Waiheke not just as a visitor, but as part of its living story.
Our team of guides are knowledgeable, friendly and fully licensed to ensure your comfort and safety.
Your safety is always our first priority, and customer satisfaction is our goal. Waiheke Wine Tours proudly holds the Gold Qualmark Certification, New Zealand’s official mark of quality assurance.
With more than thirteen years of experience in local travel and hospitality, our passion is creating authentic experiences, lasting memories and truly unforgettable tours.
Travel in comfort in our modern, air-conditioned vans, easily recognised by our distinctive Waiheke Wine Tours branding. Each vehicle is equipped with Bluetooth speakers, and for private tours, we even have a karaoke mic for guests who love to add some extra fun to their day.
We are also committed to sustainability. Partnering with EKOS, we offset our carbon footprint and encourage guests to join our eco-friendly efforts by bringing reusable water bottles. Refill stations are available, and we also offer stainless-steel Waiheke Wine Tours bottles for $20 each.
Sharon Killen
My background is deeply rooted in the transport and tourism industry. My father worked for New Zealand Rail and Newlands Coach Service, even driving the legendary Billy T. James on tour around the country. My family’s love for travel began generations ago, from horse-drawn trams in Glasgow to modern coach tours in New Zealand. Sharing stories and connecting with travellers is truly in our blood.
When I founded Waiheke Wine Tours, I wanted to create something very different from a standard sightseeing tour. Rather than simply transporting people from one winery to another, I wanted every guest to feel like they were spending the day with knowledgeable local friends.
That philosophy remains at the heart of every experience we deliver.
We’re committed to providing experiences that are:
Our guides are locals who genuinely love Waiheke Island and enjoy sharing its stories, history and hidden gems. We never want our tours to feel rushed or scripted. Instead, we want every guest to leave feeling they’ve experienced the real Waiheke.
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new venture Auckland Wine Tours Ltd, expanding our reach beyond Waiheke Island. We’re also preparing to introduce UNCORKED TOURS, New Zealand’s first cellar door on wheels, launching on December 20. Stay tuned for this exciting new experience.
At Waiheke Wine Tours, our team is passionate about sharing the stories, flavours, and spirit of Waiheke Island. Each of our guides brings a wealth of knowledge, local insight, and genuine warmth to every tour, ensuring you experience the island through the eyes of those who call it home.
If you’ve booked a tour with Waiheke Wine Tours, chances are you’ve already spoken to me. I’m Sharon Killen, founder and owner of Waiheke Wine Tours Ltd, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has built over the past few years. What started with one vehicle and a vision has grown into one of New Zealand’s most Google-reviewed wine tour companies, welcoming thousands of guests from around the world to experience the magic of Waiheke Island.
For me, this has never just been about wine. It’s about creating unforgettable experiences, introducing visitors to extraordinary people, sharing the stories behind our vineyards, and helping guests discover why Waiheke Island is one of New Zealand’s most remarkable destinations.
Whether you’re visiting Waiheke for the first time or returning to discover something new, my team and I would be delighted to welcome you. We look forward to sharing our beautiful island with you.
Gilda is the glue that keeps everything running smoothly. As our Brand and Partnerships Manager, she’s the Italian butterfly of our team — always bringing warmth, creativity, and a touch of European flair. Originally from Italy, Gilda has an extensive background as a sommelier and in the wine and hospitality industries across Europe and Waiheke. Her deep appreciation for fine wine and authentic experiences helps us continue to build strong relationships with our vineyard partners and guests alike.
Silvia is our vibrant Italian and Spanish-speaking guide who has called Waiheke home for many years. She delights guests with her deep knowledge of the island, sharing fascinating stories and hidden secrets along the way. With her warm, empathetic nature and passion for both yoga and fine wine, Silvia brings a calm, joyful energy to every tour — a true gem on our team.
Debbie is one of our wonderful long-time residents of Waiheke Island and a valued tour guide on our team. With her warm personality and deep connection to the island, she brings every tour to life through storytelling, local knowledge, and genuine hospitality.
Beyond guiding, Debbie has a passion for crafting Korowai — traditional Māori cloaks that represent strength, connection, and healing. Her creative work, Wairua te Rongoā, is a beautiful expression of Māori identity and wellbeing, born right here on the shores of Waiheke. You can often find Debbie at the Waiheke Markets, sharing her stunning Korowai, her stories, and her aroha with everyone she meets.
No visit to Waiheke Wine Tours’ offices is complete without meeting Bonnie and Billy! Our two Border Collies are the heart of the office and love greeting guests with wagging tails, plenty of affection and the warmest Waiheke welcome. They firmly believe every great day should start with a cuddle!
Tell us what you’d like from your day on the island and we’ll take care of the rest.
