This vineyard with cellar door in Syrah – a variety with strong roots on Waiheke. The estate is known for its handcrafted boutique wines that offer some of the best Syrah in New Zealand, and the world. Owhanake Bay Estate has been producing medal winning wines since 2006. Among its accolades are gold medals, championships and a trophy.

In 2023 Owhanake Bay Estate’s ‘The ONE’ syrah won best Syrah in New Zealand, as well as being the Auckland Regional Champion. It also has two gold medals. The vineyard is also situated alongside their flower farm.

Their Syrah is named ‘Anchorage’ after Owhanake Bay, which is a popular anchorage especially over summer. Their white was named after their daughter and being fair minded they produced a rosé so they could name it after their son.

Services and Offerings

Specialising in handcrafted wines, Owhanake Bay Estate provides a peaceful laid back retreat for wine lovers. The tasting shed therefore also doubles as a flower shop – offering a unique opportunity to buy wine and flowers at once.

Enjoy tastings, talking to the owners in the wine and flower shed, while taking in panoramic views of Owhanake Bay and beyond.

Location and Getting There

Owhanake Bay Estate is conveniently located just a few minutes’ drive from the Matiatia ferry terminal and is easily accessible by taxi, car, or a short walk from Oneroa Village.

Why Visit? This area of the island is easily overlooked and is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle of Oneroa! (It can happen).  Drive or wander down to Owhanake Bay and take in a coastal walk before visiting Owhanake Bay Estate.

Customer Experiences Guests frequently highlight the estate’s peaceful atmosphere and the personal attention from the owners during tastings.

Family owned and Operated Christy and Mike first saw the property in 2005. They both liked wine and new challenges, so the already planted but young vineyard was attractive. Not knowing anything about growing grapes was never going to stop them. Christy and Mike hired people who knew what they were doing and joined in as their help, learning from them and slowly taking over the jobs they felt comfortable.

Harvest at Owhanake Bay Wines is a family and community affair.

While their now adult children were growing up, harvest day was a day off school to help with the pick.

It is important to them to produce the best quality grapes possible, then work with their winemaker to produce a top quality and elegant wine. They always have the way they want their wine to be in mind while making decisions through the season, which is why they love getting feedback about people enjoying the wines. The estate’s commitment to small-batch production ensures a unique and quality experience.

Check out their website – you may even be able to book a course to learn about all things fabulous and floral.