Waiheke Eastern Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off bus

Explore the unique underworld of Fort Stony Batter, taking you back in time through 1.2km’s of subterranean WWII tunnels. Built in the 1940s, the site features an extensive network of underground tunnels, gun emplacements, and observation posts. Explore the tunnels and learn about their history while enjoying the surrounding scenic reserve, known for its distinctive volcanic rock formations and panoramic views. Please note a moderate level of fitness is recommended. There is a 1km walk across easy farm terrain to the entrance, walking shoes recommended.

Experiences we recommend:  

• Guided Bunker Highlight and Art tour  

Duration: 30 minutes  

Visiting magazines, gun turrets, 200 metres of tunnels arriving at the subterranean art galleries and concert chamber. This tour is designed as a leisurely adventure for all levels of fitness and ages.

• Guided Heritage tour 

Duration: 50 minutes 

Taking in the Bunker tour then descending a further seven stories below ground to the Underworld, the deepest no. 3 passage, engine room, command bunker, exiting into a first growth forest and a gentle return walk.  

Please note: 

Tours depart every half hour, fully guided, tickets purchased from the onsite visitors centre – advance bookings are not necessary. 

Learn more and book here: https://www.stonybattertunnels.nz/ 

With iconic wines, a breath-taking coastline, picturesque vineyards, and warm hospitality, Man O’ War offers a seamless blend of nature and indulgence for an unforgettable Waiheke escape. Enjoy wine flights or a leisurely lunch at their beachfront tasting room and restaurant.

Learn more and book here: https://www.manowar.co.nz/  

Perched on the ridge above Cowes Bay, Waiheke Distilling Co. is home to some of the best views on the island. Specialising in premium, small-batch craft spirits, sample their unique botanical blends in the tasting room before enjoying cocktails and grazing plates in the garden, overlooking the Coromandel Peninsula.

Experiences we recommend:  

Let The Fun Be-Gin! - $55 per person (minimum two people)  

Enjoy a tasting board, a gin and tonic or vodka soda of your choice, a sharing pizza and seasonal salad.  

Learn more and book here: https://waihekedistilling.co.nz/ 

Specialising in Rosé and Syrah, Jasper Ridge invites you to experience their first-ever ‘Tasting in the Vines’ this summer — a unique, rustic experience in their working vineyard. Enjoy a guided tasting of five wines, take a walk through the vines, and explore the selection of gifts and wines available for purchase at their Cellar Door. 

Experiences we recommend: 

‘Tasting in the Vines’ - 5 wines for $20, served outside among the vines. 

Learn more and book here: https://www.jasperridge.co.nz/  

Nestled between the hills and the eastern shores of Waiheke, Passage Rock is the island’s most awarded winery. Renowned for their exceptional Syrah and other fine wines, guests can taste the Passage Rock range, followed by lunch at the vineyard restaurant, where locally inspired dishes celebrate the island’s finest seasonal produce.

Experiences we recommend:  

Wine tasting - $22 

Savour four wines, including two of our premium reserve selections. 

Wine tasting with appetizer plate - $50 

Enjoy four wines, including two reserve selections, paired with a tasting plate. 

Three-course set menu with bread - $75 

Begin with freshly baked bread, followed by a delectable three-course meal crafted by our chefs 

Please note:  

For the three-course set menu, guests must be seated by 3pm. 

Learn more and book here: https://passagerock.co.nz/

Awaroa Vineyard is an award-winning organic boutique winery. Focused on sustainable practices and small-batch production, Awaroa offers a range of premium wines in a beautiful garden setting, along with delicious antipasto platters. Visitors can enjoy intimate wine tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the island.

Learn more and book here: https://www.awaroa.co.nz/