Waiheke Island food lovers guide: Where to stay, eat and drink - International Travel

Jun 22, 2022

Chef Sean Connolly shares the New Zealand island he retreats to when he needs some R&R in-between running two busy restaurants in Auckland and Sydney.

Living between New Zealand and Australia for the last decade, at Esther in Auckland, and Gowings Bar & Grill at QT Sydney, I’ve been to Waiheke many times – it’s a total escape.

Even when it’s grey in Auckland, Waiheke has its own microclimate and an energy which I liken to the disarming aura of Byron Bay, Martha’s Vineyard or Bermuda. You might go for a day, and it feels like a two-week holiday.

Waiheke food lovers guide: best places to stay, eat and drink

The journey is even part of it. My favourite way to travel to Waiheke is via helicopter, the views of the island are magnificent. If you’re going there once, helicopter is the way to do it. When returning home, I prefer boat – it’s a good opportunity to throw a few lines out, catch some snapper and take it back to Esther for the night’s service.

Waiheke is a wine destination. Start out east at Man O’ War, an intimate beachfront winery with a tasting room, casual eatery, a lawn for picnics and knockout wines – there’s not one bad wine. I often pick up a Man O’ War Syrah: it’s a perfect match for Esther’s lamb shoulder with Ortiz anchovies and Moroccan olives.

Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, Waiheke Island NZ

I love The Oyster Inn. I have so many fun memories of casual, balmy afternoons eating Waiheke ‘Te Matuku’ oysters and its must-have fish and chips, and drinking local wines like Mudbrick.

Speaking of Mudbrick, I often try to fly in there. Both their venues, Archive Bistro and Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant, have the most incredible views back to the city and over the Hauraki Gulf. It’s best enjoyed with their fabulous antipasto board and syrah. After, head to Stonyridge Estate Winery for a vertical tasting of Larose.

Waiheke is a great place for reflection. You know: long walks, just sitting on the beach, swimming, walking and… thinking about your next meal. It’s just special. I’ve spent the last months relaunching Gowings at QT Sydney, and it’s been hectic and rewarding. Waiheke is where I’ll fly as soon as I get the chance.