Situated in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is an oasis of tranquility and beauty. And it's also known for its exceptional microclimate, with its warm summers and mild winters creating an ideal environment for growing grapes. And for wine lovers, it's a must-do destination. A ferry ride takes you to Waiheke, a picture-postcard blend of forests, farmlands, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. Soak up breathtaking views of the coastline before continuing on to two local wineries that showcase Waiheke's perfect growing ground for a variety of grapes. These boutique wineries produce high-quality wines, including cabernet sauvignon, merlot, malbec, cabernet franc and, more recently, chardonnay. The wine estates you'll visit are true gems, and in addition to exploring, you're invited to participate in tastings served with a cheese platter at one of the wineries. Conclude with a ferry cruise back to Auckland.