Brews, Spirits & Views

Private Waiheke Craft Beer & Distillery Tour

A Crafted Adventure Awaits You!

Take a journey into the world of Waiheke Island’s craft beer and distilled spirits — where flavour, creativity, and stunning scenery come together in one unforgettable experience.

Tour Highlights

• 🍺 Taste a range of locally made craft beers and small-batch spirits.

• 🍽️ Enjoy a delicious shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen.

• 🚐 Relax with comfortable transport and local commentary from your friendly Waiheke guide.

• 🌅 Discover breathtaking coastal views and hidden island gems along the way.

Your Day on Waiheke

Your adventure begins at the Matiatia Ferry Terminal or your Waiheke accommodation, where your local guide will greet you and whisk you away in comfort to your first destination.

Stop 1 – Waiheke Distilling Co.

Perched on the tranquil eastern end of the island, Waiheke Distilling Co. overlooks the sparkling waters of Pakatoa, Rotoroa, and Ponui Islands. Unwind as you sip on an exquisite gin tasting flight, learn about botanical distilling, and soak in the stunning panorama.

Stop 2 – The Heke Distillery & Brewery

Nestled within four acres of lush gardens, The Heke is home to Waiheke’s own craft distillery and brewery. Here, you’ll enjoy a premium tasting of two single malt whiskies (each aged for at least five years), a new-make spirit, and a refreshing Heke lager.
A shared grazing-style lunch follows at The Heke Kitchen, where the flavours of the island come alive in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Stop 3 – Tantalus Estate / Alibi Brewing Co.

Round off your day with a craft beer tasting at Alibi Brewery, set within the beautiful Tantalus Estate in the Onetangi Valley. Sample an inspired selection of seasonal brews crafted from the flora and fauna of the estate grounds.

After your final tasting, your guide will return you to the Matiatia ferry terminal in time for the 4:15 pm Island Direct sailing back to Auckland — or you may choose to hop off in Oneroa village to continue your Waiheke experience with dinner or drinks before a later ferry.

Sample Itinerary

(Times may vary depending on venue availability and seasonal factors.)

• 9:15 am – Depart Auckland on Island Direct ferry to Waiheke Island (tickets not included)

• 9:50 am – Meet your guide at Matiatia Wharf or enjoy pickup from your Waiheke accommodation

• 11:00 am – Gin tasting at Waiheke Distilling Co.

• 1:00 pm – Whiskey and beer tasting at The Heke

• 1:30 pm – Shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen

• 3:00 pm – Craft beer tasting at Alibi Brewing Co., Tantalus Estate

• 4:30 pm – Depart Waiheke on Island Direct ferry to Auckland

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Pricing

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Please Note

• This tour is private and requires a minimum of two participants.

• Ferry tickets are included in the price

• Pick-up available from your Waiheke accommodation or the Matiatia ferry terminal (please confirm 24 hours prior).

Whisky Distillery

Alibi craft Beer Waiheke Gin Distillery has the best views!

 

Got questions? I have the answers!

What is the best brewery and distillery tour on Waiheke Island?

If you’re looking to discover Waiheke beyond its famous vineyards, our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour is the perfect experience. You’ll visit three of the island’s leading craft producers, enjoy premium gin, whisky and beer tastings, a delicious shared grazing lunch, and travel with a knowledgeable local guide who brings Waiheke’s stories to life.

What is included in the Waiheke Craft Beer & Distillery Tour?

Your private experience includes premium tastings at Waiheke Distilling Co., The Heke Distillery & Brewery, and Alibi Brewing Co. at Tantalus Estate, a shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen, luxury transport around Waiheke Island, ferry tickets from Auckland, and a friendly local guide.

Is this tour suitable if I don’t drink wine?

Heck yeah! this tour is perfect for you as it has been designed for guests who enjoy craft beer, premium spirits, whisky and gin, or simply want to experience another side of Waiheke Island. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional wine tours while still showcasing some of the island’s most spectacular scenery.

Does the Waiheke Craft Beer & Distillery Tour include lunch?

Yes. You’ll enjoy a beautiful shared grazing lunch at The Heke Kitchen, one of Waiheke Island’s favourite dining destinations. The menu celebrates fresh New Zealand produce in a relaxed garden setting, making it the perfect complement to your tastings.

Which breweries and distilleries will we visit?

Your tour includes three unique tasting experiences:

• Waiheke Distilling Co. for premium handcrafted gin.
• The Heke Distillery & Brewery for single malt whisky, craft spirits and locally brewed beer.
• Alibi Brewing Co. at Tantalus Estate for innovative seasonal craft beers inspired by the flora and fauna of Waiheke Island.

Is this a private Waiheke Island tour?

Yes. This is a fully private experience designed for couples, friends, families and small groups looking for something different from a traditional wine tour. Your guide tailors the day to your pace, ensuring a relaxed and personalised island experience.

Are ferry tickets included in the tour?

Yes. Unlike many Waiheke tours, your return ferry tickets from Auckland are included in the price, making your day completely hassle-free. If you’re already staying on Waiheke Island, we can also collect you directly from your accommodation.

Why choose a guided craft beer and distillery tour?

A guided tour allows you to relax and enjoy every tasting without worrying about driving, navigating public transport or organising bookings. Your tastings are arranged in advance, you’ll travel comfortably between venues, and your local guide will share fascinating insights into Waiheke’s history, craft beverage scene and hidden gems.

Is Waiheke Island known for craft beer and spirits?

Yes. While Waiheke is internationally famous for its wineries, the island has also developed an outstanding reputation for boutique distilleries and craft breweries. From award-winning gin and premium single malt whisky to innovative small-batch beers, Waiheke offers one of New Zealand’s most exciting artisan beverage scenes.

Why book the Craft Beer & Distillery Tour with Waiheke Wine Tours?

Waiheke Wine Tours specialises in creating authentic island experiences led by passionate local guides. Our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour offers a unique way to explore Waiheke, combining spectacular scenery, award-winning craft producers, exceptional local food and seamless transport. Everything is organised for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy an unforgettable day discovering a different side of the island.

Can you do a brewery tour on Waiheke Island?

Yes. Our Craft Beer & Distillery Tour is one of the most comprehensive brewery and distillery experiences on Waiheke Island. You’ll visit award-winning producers, sample premium gin, whisky and craft beer, enjoy a shared lunch, and discover why Waiheke has become a destination for artisan beverages as well as world-class wine.