Tantalus Estate

Reached by a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island's recent past as an arty and bohemian haven from New Zealand's biggest and most cosmopolitan city is now being complemented by excellent vineyard restaurants. Accessed by a sweeping tree-lined entrance reminiscent of Tuscany or the south of France, Tantalus Estate is one of Waiheke's most impressive wineries. Make a reservation for lunch in the sunny pavilion dining room—booking ahead is especially recommended on summer weekends—and partner the vineyard's own wines with local Te Matuku bay oysters, and innovative dishes including pork belly with chilli caramel, refreshing melon and Vietnamese mint. Downstairs, the Brewing Lounge serves craft beer brewed onsite by the Alibi Brewing Company.