The Estate

Our 12 acre estate extends from the edge of the vineyard you will overlook, through the native bush to the bottom of the valley and on to the gate of the neighbouring property which is to the north west of us.

You will be free to wander throughout the estate.

As well as the olive grove and several acres of native bush, you will see wood pigeons in the puriri, taraire and kahikatea trees, tuis in the flax, and kingfishers in the manuka. You will hear the morepork owl in the evening and you can watch the grace of our local harrier hawk – “Waihawkie” – as he rides the air currents over the valley.

Woodside Bay Area

The nearest beach in Woodside Bay can be reached by car (two minutes away), or on foot by a steep path through the bush, passing a magnificent kauri tree. The path is a little-known private right of way. The beach is perfect for a swim or a sundowner.

Onetangi, our white sand beach village, with a range of good restaurants is a 10 minute drive away.

There are wonderful walks along Whakanewha Bay (also a 2 minute drive), where you can see dotterels nesting on the beach and there are well maintained Department of Conservation tracks through the Regional Park.

We can help you plan any walks, as we are keen walkers ourselves.

The winery we overlook produces the stunning Bordeaux blend Destiny Bay, considered to be one of New Zealand’s finest wines. The winery does not have an open cellar door, but if you are thinking of buying some of this amazing wine, we can put you in touch with Mike.

Restaurants on the Island

There are a few restaurants that we consider to be un-missable:

Poderi Crisci – a little piece of Italy, nestled in a Waiheke valley. Book for the long lunch on Sunday – no menu, just a series of delicious dishes brought to you by the loveliest host. Make sure you try the sparkling rosé and the Viburno. 09 372 2148

Tantalus – worth a visit for the architecture alone, although the amazing food and the warm hospitality make this a wonderful experience. 09 372 2625

The Oyster Inn – a very relaxed “beachey” atmosphere, perfect for a holiday lunch or dinner. Great food and always a wonderful welcome. Try the local Te Matuku oysters, they are yum. 09 372 2222

Also highly recommended are Mudbrick for brunch (it is just such a beautiful place, you have to go and see it); and Casita Miro or the shed at Te Motu  and Three Seven Two at Onetangi for lunch or dinner.

During holiday times and at weekends you should book at these restaurants as far ahead as possible as they do fill up.

Tours and Transport

Big Aroha Winery & Shuttle Tours is owned and operated by locals husband and wife, Darren and Jane.

They offer a unique insight into the heart of Waiheke.

They pride themselves in Manaakitanga (hospitality services) and share the stories of their ancestors and their love for our earth, sea and forests.

If you need a lift from the ferry to our location, you can contact them on 0800 127 642 or to arrange a wine tour view on their website www.bigarohatours.co.nz.

Big Aroha Tours