An idyllic setting with picturesque views, Waiheke Island is a short ferry ride from Auckland city and has captured the heart of dish editor Sarah Tuck.
Waiheke has long been (dare I say it) my favourite place in New Zealand. In part, because I spent 15 summers there as my sons grew from toddlers into gangling adolescents (and subsequently fully-grown men). So, it was with utter glee I loaded my car to the gunnels and boarded the car ferry out to 'the rock' to cook, eat, drink, roam familiar walking tracks and indulge in all the island has to offer.
While Waiheke has a global reputation for producing world-class wine, it has many other strings to its productive bow – one of which is glorious, distinctive olive oil, much of which is produced by the talented team at Allpress Olive Groves. Not only do they have an impressive line-up of award-winning extra-virgin olive oils, known for their refreshing clean flavours and outstanding health benefits, but they also offer a range of stunning accommodation options for those wanting to stay awhile, to explore, laze on the beach, swim, taste and savour, then return to welcoming surrounds in which to relax and indulge.
Described as “the epitome of contemporary coastal cool”, the ‘Matiatia Millhouse’ sits in their olive grove at Waiheke’s north-western tip. This effortlessly cool property features three bedrooms, luxurious bath, and stunning views over the olives. ‘number29’ is ideally situated just five minutes from Oneroa and brings an elevated version of Kiwi bach living to life. Designed by award-winning architect André Hodgskin, it features floor-to-ceiling sliding doors in a way that invites the landscape in and includes a separate barn bedroom so that 10 friends and family can happily holiday together. ‘The Ranch’ is exuberantly luxurious with a spa and outdoor shower, pool table, four
