Ananda Tours

Photo #1 of 4 . Swipe for more photos. The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour Although your arrival and departure times are flexible, here's what you can expect from a typical Essence of Waiheke tour. You will be picked up from the 10am ex-Auckland ferry or your accommodation on the island and travel in a comfortable minibus to three or more of the top vineyards on the island, according to your preference and seasonal availability. Vineyards may include: * Cable Bay * Goldie * Kennedy Point * Mudbrick * Obsidian * Stonyridge * Te Whau * Jurassic Ridge * The Hay Paddock * Passage Rock * Peacock Sky An olive oil tasting may also be included if you wish. On the way, stunning scenery is absolutely unavoidable! You will also be entertained by a commentary on Waiheke from one of our experienced guides, all of whom are locals with extensive knowledge of the island, its people and its produce. The tour normally includes a two-hour lunch stop at a village or beachside café, or, for a memorable gourmet experience, at one of our top vineyard restaurants. Lunch is an additional cost and it is advisable that we reserve a table for you at the time you confirm your booking. You will then be returned to your accommodation or to the 4pm ferry back to Auckland. Ferry tickets can be arranged for you at $33.50 pp return - please contact us for more details Suggested times: 10AM FERRY EX-AUCKLAND - 4pm FERRY RETURN Photo copyright Ananda Tours.

Overview

The name Ananda means bliss, pleasure and happiness ...
Ananda's intention for all our visitors.

Ananda Tours began touring Waiheke Island in October 1999. Instrumental in developing tourism on Waiheke, Jenny McDonald and Nigel Robinson initially planned to do art tours. Then, as vineyards began to open their cellar doors to the public, an opportunity was grasped and Ananda began to offer small, personalized and flexible wine tours to complement the growing wine industry on the island.

Beginning 10 years ago with a 9-seater Hiace, Ananda has grown to a fleet of five late-model vehicles capable of taking tours from 2 - 200 people. From an original market of summer -only tours, Ananda now offers departures 364 days of the year with a 24-hour personalised booking service. As market leaders on Waiheke, our focus now ranges from small wine tours to large incentive groups. Ananda prides itself on being able to cope with almost any request, be it vineyards, olive oil mills, scenic tours, eco tours, or visits to some of the local art galleries.

These days, Ananda continues to hold true to its original inspiration: to show visitors the very best of Waiheke - wine, olive oils, great food, scenery and art - with passion and enthusiasm. Our late-model vehicles, close relationships with local providers and highly-knowledgeable local guides ensure that visitors to the island have a memorable and enjoyable experience.