Kiwis hoping for a little Waiheke wine-and-dine magic to combat the midwinter blues can now do so at a cheaper price, thanks to the return of an old favourite.
Winter Wine and Dine is back for its fourth year, with ferry operator Fullers360 partnering with three participating Waiheke Island wineries to ensure everyone is catered for.
For $125 per person, customers receive a return ferry from downtown Auckland, a multi-course lunch and a glass of wine at a participating winery of their choice, as well as on-island transport.
And there are plenty of options to be had.
People can choose to head to Batch Winery and enjoy a high tea paired with a glass of Thomas' Field Blend Rosé, or maybe Cable Bay Vineyards for traditional burrata pizza with a choice from the Awatere Valley range will be your bag.
If that doesn't appeal, then there's always Stonyridge Vineyard for a food platter and a glass of Stonyridge Syrah.
The deal is available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until October. Bookings are essential, the company said.
Mike Horne, Fullers360 CEO, said packages like Winter Wine and Dine are just one of the ways the company supports domestic and international visitors.
"Now borders open and visitors are starting to explore the Hauraki Gulf once again, we're proud to work with local wineries on Waiheke Island," he said.
"We hope to see both local and international tourists making the most of this deal, having a great winter's day out to one of our island destinations."
After an afternoon of wining and dining, visitors can then explore the island on their own timetable with the Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus before making their way back to Matiatia Ferry Terminal for the return journey.
Ferry sailings depart Auckland at midday, with a Wine and Dine coach meeting customers at the Waiheke ferry when it arrives at 12:45pm.
The company suggests people should allow at least five hours, including the ferry, to fully enjoy the experience.
