There is so much more to Auckland’s island of wine than crushed grapes.
Connells Bay Sculpture Park
Gregor Kregar
‘Vanish’ by Gregor Kregar features 160 glazed stoneware figures.
When you can tear your eyes from the impressive views of the Hauraki Gulf, fix them on art. Specifically, the 30+ pieces at the Connells Bay Sculpture Park, including works by Jeff Thomson, Virginia King and Michael Parekōwhai. The two-hour guided walk winds through 2km of bush and farmland, and includes aluminium, bronze, concrete and fibreglass sculptures, some 8m high.
Wild on Waiheke
Supplied
Fun, games, wine and beer at Wild on Waiheke.
Let’s play a word association game: I say Waiheke and you probably don’t say archery, laser clay bird shooting, giant chess and petanque. But at Wild on Waiheke, you can do all these activities and more. Set amongst grapevines, this is a popular spot for team building, hen/stag parties or simply a fun afternoon. There’s also a brewery and restaurant.
Visit a winery (or two)
Waiheke Island Wine Tours
Wine tasting with a view.
You didn’t think we’d do a list about Waiheke without mentioning crushed grapes, did you? Thanks to the island’s micro-climate and alluvial soils, this is a paradise for winemakers (and drinkers). Waiheke is renowned for its cab sav, merlot and malbec wines and you’ll have your pick from around 30 boutique wineries scattered around the motu, including Mudbrick and Cable Bay.
Staying safe: New Zealand is currently under Covid-19 restrictions. Follow the instructions at covid19.govt.nz.
