Top things to do in Hauraki Gulf Islands

Up a winding driveway framed by grapevines, Waiheke's newest vineyard restaurant and tasting room channels an Iberian ambience, but the savvy and diverse menu effortlessly covers the globe. Secure a spot under rusti…

This excellent pub offers craft beer, seafood, steak and burgers, and is GB's main social centre. Wood-fired pizza combines with an alfresco salad bar, and there are regular live gigs with a Gaelic and folky bent. S…

Settle in with a tapas platter and a glass of Man O' War's Valhalla Chardonnay at Waiheke's only beachfront tasting room. If the weather is good, go for a swim in beautiful Man O' War Bay.

Impressive ubermodern architecture, interesting sculpture and beautiful views set the scene for this acclaimed restaurant. The food is sublime, but if the budget won’t stretch to a meal, stop in for a wine tasting (…

Specialising in 'artisan wood-fired food', this caravan by the beach serves the three Ps: pizza, polenta plates and pocket bread. It's easily Waiheke's best place for cheap eats.

A 2.5km cliff-top sculpture walk, held for a month in February in odd-numbered years.

Secure a table shaded by umbrellas in the Shed's rustic courtyard for shared plates imbued with global influences and served by the restaurant's savvy and equally international waitstaff. Highlights might include sh…

San Francisco expat Rick Paladino is enjoying island life at this compact microbrewery. Taproom hours are limited to Friday to Sunday afternoons, when Rick and his Kiwi partner Rochelle are on hand to guide tastings…

Poderi Crisci has quickly gained a sterling reputation for its food, particularly its legendary four-hour lunches on Sundays ($70 per person). Italian varietals and olives have been planted alongside the existing vi…

Framed by fruit trees, this 1920s-era wooden cottage makes for a perfect stop away from Waiheke's busier tourist spots. A superior range of teas and infusions are served either hot or cold in the relaxing rear court…