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Veranda is based on Waiheke Island. With pristine white sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters, gorgeous landscapes, boutique shopping, world class wines, and fantastic cuisine, it’s easy to see why Waiheke Island is considered the jewel of the Hauraki Gulf. While our little slice of paradise is a short 35min ferry ride from the centre of Auckland, it is miles from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Here are a few of our favourite places to visit while you are here.

Wineries

  • Man O’War

    Located at the eastern end of Waiheke Island - getting there requires an adventurous drive along a gravel road.

    However, once there you won’t want to leave. Settle into a spot on the lawn with a tapas platter and a glass of Man O' War's Valhalla Chardonnay and enjoy Waiheke's only beachfront tasting room.

    The Man O’War Bay will be full of boats with the boaties coming ashore to enjoy for a glass of wine.  A family friendly premise with activities for the kids (and adults) such as lawn cricket, pétanque, skittles and swing ball. 

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  • Mudbrick

    One of the island's best-known wineries with a Provence-style restaurant made of mud-brick and a truly romantic feel. The vineyard enjoys fantastic 360-degree views of the gulf and surrounding islands.

    In addition to the iconic fine dining restaurant, Mudbrick has a casual dining bistro, wine tasting and stunning accommodation for those who wish to stay the night. The food, service and atmosphere are second to none.

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  • Stoneyridge

    Stonyridge is considered Waiheke's most famous vineyard and is home to world-famous and award winning red wines, an atmospheric cafe and the occasional dance party.

    Order a bottle of wine and a gigantic deli platter and retreat to one of the cabanas in the garden. While there wines are world famous, the Stonyridge platters are gaining similar notoriety. 

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  • Te Motu

    Te Motu’s vineyard lies in the heart of Waiheke Island’s Onetangi Valley and is minutes from the long, sandy Onetangi beach.

    Wine-tasting at the cellar door is a must and the on-site restaurant uses wonderful local ingredients, including fresh produce straight from their own gardens and produces delicious food.

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  • Tantalus

    Tantalus Estate is a destination for travellers and locals alike. Diners in the main restaurant enjoy an architecturally designed, light-filled venue fabricated from natural materials. From the mezzanine balcony you can peek into the craft brewery on the floor below.

    The menu is bursting with delicious fresh food designed to match their hand-crafted wines and beers.  In addition to the stunning main restaurant, Tantalus has Alibi Brewer’s Lounge. This is located on the ground floor and is reminiscent of a speakeasy from the Prohibition era.

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Where to Eat

  • Oyster Inn

    Oyster Inn is right in the centre of Oneroa village. Take in the great sea views over Oneroa Bay and enjoy the menu inspired by coastal classics. The kitchen is open all day so you can drop in anytime for something to eat, a cocktail or crisp glass of wine at the bar.

    The Oyster Inn serve honest, simple dishes made with the very best local produce, priding themselves on fresh seafood and shellfish - our local fresh oysters are a must to try. They also have accommodation available.

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  • Casita Miro

    Renowned for its ambiance, fine food and wines. Castia Miro specialises in the cuisine of Spain and the wider Mediterranean Rim.

    Casita Miro is all about shared dining - 'tapas' and 'raciones' (large plates) which are perfect for a fun, relaxed and social dining experience.

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  • Fenice

    Another great spot right in the centre of Oneroa Village. Fenice serves authentic Italian and Mediterranean food beside a roaring open fire.

    The menu reflects the seasons and is constantly changing and all food is made onsite. They do great breakfasts, lunches, pizza and dinners that will satisfy all.

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  • Akito

    A great cafe for breakfast or lunch in Oneroa village. While not vegan, they have an excellent selection of vegan and vegetarian options along with meat dishes to satisfy any carnivores. Fresh, experimental dishes featuring lots of fermented ingredients and interesting grains. Coffee is excellent.

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  • Wild On Waiheke

    Wild On Waiheke takes sharing plates, platters and grazing boards to a whole new level. Enjoy good food matched with their handcrafted beers, let your taste-buds go Wild with awesome kitchens creations where they specialise in wild ingredients.

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  • The Heke

    One of our newest additions to Waiheke is The Heke. Situated on four acres of beautiful gardens, The 'HEKE Kitchen is a relaxed place for groups, and a family & dog friendly restaurant where our chefs prepare your food over glowing wood fires.

    This place does casual dining brilliantly. They serve fresh local meals, which are cooked in the open kitchen. The bar is a great spot for a cold drink or grab a sofa next to the open fire and enjoy the warmth.

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Coffee

We are unashamedly coffee snobs and our day can be ruined with a below average coffee. To ensure this never happens we get our daily coffee from the team at Double Shot. This 'hole in the wall' set up is right in the centre of Oneroa Village. You can’t miss it - it will be surrounded by a crowd of locals getting their daily fix.

The team serve Havana Coffee and have every milk option you can think of. If you get there early enough on the weekends, grab a cinnamon brioche - you won’t regret it. Open from 6.30am to 2pm daily.