HOW TO GET TO

Man O'War Vineyards

Man O' War Winery is a 4,500-acre family-owned farm with the first vines planted in 1993. Since then they have become the largest and one of the most prestigious growers and winemakers on the island. 

They produce a wide range of superb wines including Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Rosé. The cellar door restaurant on the beachfront is a beautiful place for lunch. Their menu features delicious shared platters and pizzas with a farm-to-table ethos. With the recent opening of their spectacular Forest Flight zipline experience, it is well worth the journey to the Eastern end to experience all this... and more.

Getting to Man O' War Vineyards on Waiheke Island can be tricky... It is on the eastern, far side of the island and requires a drive along winding, rolling and partial dirt road. The drive straight there, can take around 45 minutes from Matiatia Wharf.

The bay itself gets the name from early European navigators in the 1700's who noted that the giant kauri trees would make excellent masts for warships. The wide sweeping cove is a great place to anchor up for lunch and a swim, and has lovely views of Pakatoa and Rotoroa Islands, with the Coromandel Peninsula nestling beyond.

Waiheke Freedom Tours provides a dedicated service to Man o'War

Our Waiheke tours can take a full loop of the island and stop at Man O' War Vineyards for lunch or a wine tasting. Unlike the winery bus, we return via the winding south coast road where you can stop to take in the spectacular views across Awakiriapa Bay, Cowes Bay, and Te Matuku Bay to the neighbouring islands. With us, you can also stop for a botanical gin or vodka tasting at Waiheke Distilling Co. on the way through. Spend the day with us in comfort and privacy, enjoying the island your way...

Other Ways to Get There...

Fullers 360 have recently introduced their Eastern Explorer coach, making it easier for larger groups to experience the best of Waiheke Island’s eastern end. The hop-on, hop-off coach service runs between Matiatia Ferry Terminal and eventually arrives at Man O' War.

Online bookings for the Eastern Explorer are recommended as seating is limited. The Eastern Explorer currently operates Wednesday - Sunday and buses run hourly - the first bus meets the 9 am ferry from downtown Auckland and arrives at Man O'war approximately 1 hour after departure. See their website for a timetable.

Hiring a car is a good choice and gives you complete freedom to explore the island. It would be worthwhile hiring a 4x4 to avoid any chance of damage on the dirt roads. Please be extra vigilant and super careful on Waiheke's narrow and winding roads, never exceed the speed limit and watch out going around sharp corners! Also, remember that whoever is driving won't get to sample the delicious wine.

Rental cars can be booked through local companies Waiheke Auto Rentals, Go Rentals, and Waiheke Rental Cars.

If you want to travel in style, how about a private water taxi or flying in?

Check our FAQ section for details under "How do we get to Waiheke Island?"