● Stop 1 – Waiheke Distilling Co.: gin tasting flight, botanical distilling, views over
Pakatoa/Rotoroa/Ponui Islands
● Stop 2 – The Heke Distillery & Brewery: two single malt whiskies (5+ years aged), a new-make spirit, Heke lager, shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen
● Stop 3 – Tantalus Estate / Alibi Brewing Co.: craft beer tasting, seasonal brews from estate botanicals
● Return to Matiatia for 4:15pm sailing, or drop off in Oneroa Village
If you’re looking to discover Waiheke beyond its famous vineyards, our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour is the perfect experience. You’ll visit three of the island’s leading craft producers, enjoy premium gin, whisky and beer tastings, a delicious shared grazing lunch, and travel with a knowledgeable local guide who brings Waiheke’s stories to life.
Your private experience includes premium tastings at Waiheke Distilling Co., The Heke Distillery & Brewery, and Alibi Brewing Co. at Tantalus Estate, a shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen, luxury transport around Waiheke Island, ferry tickets from Auckland, and a friendly local guide.
Heck yeah! this tour is perfect for you as it has been designed for guests who enjoy craft beer, premium spirits, whisky and gin, or simply want to experience another side of Waiheke Island. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional wine tours while still showcasing some of the island’s most spectacular scenery.
Yes. You’ll enjoy a beautiful shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen, one of Waiheke Island’s favourite dining destinations. The menu celebrates fresh New Zealand produce in a relaxed garden setting, making it the perfect complement to your tastings.
Your tour includes three unique tasting experiences:
Yes. This is a fully private experience designed for couples, friends, families and small groups looking for something different from a traditional wine tour. Your guide tailors the day to your pace, ensuring a relaxed and personalised island experience.
Yes. Unlike many Waiheke tours, your return ferry tickets from Auckland are included in the price, making your day completely hassle-free. If you’re already staying on Waiheke Island, we can also collect you directly from your accommodation.
A guided tour allows you to relax and enjoy every tasting without worrying about driving, navigating public transport or organising bookings. Your tastings are arranged in advance, you’ll travel comfortably between venues, and your local guide will share fascinating insights into Waiheke’s history, craft beverage scene and hidden gems.
Yes. While Waiheke is internationally famous for its wineries, the island has also developed an outstanding reputation for boutique distilleries and craft breweries. From award-winning gin and premium single malt whisky to innovative small-batch beers, Waiheke offers one of New Zealand’s most exciting artisan beverage scenes.
Waiheke Wine Tours specialises in creating authentic island experiences led by passionate local guides. Our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour offers a unique way to explore Waiheke, combining spectacular scenery, award-winning craft producers, exceptional local food and seamless transport. Everything is organised for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy an unforgettable day discovering a different side of the island.
Yes. Our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour is one of the most comprehensive brewery and distillery experiences on Waiheke Island. You’ll visit award-winning producers, sample premium gin, whisky and craft beer, enjoy a shared lunch, and discover why Waiheke has become a destination for artisan beverages as well as world-class wine.
Local knowledge. Seamless travel. A different taste of Waiheke.
With more than a decade of experience showcasing Waiheke Island, we know there is much more to discover here than wine.
Our local knowledge and relationships with the island’s producers allow us to bring together some of Waiheke’s most distinctive breweries and distilleries in one seamless private experience.
Your knowledgeable local guide takes care of the transport, bookings and logistics while sharing the stories behind the island and its growing craft beverage scene, leaving you free to enjoy every tasting without worrying about driving or planning your day.
From handcrafted gin and locally produced single malt whisky to innovative craft beer and great local food, we make it easy to discover a completely different side of Waiheke Island.
Journey into Waiheke’s craft beer and distilled spirits scene