About Stonyridge Vineyard
Stonyridge Vineyard is a boutique winery, restaurant, and event venue high on the slopes of Onetangi Valley, Waiheke Island. It was established in the early 1980s by Dr. Stephen White, who dreamed of making world-class Bordeaux-style reds . Today it is celebrated for its rich history and award-winning flagship wine “Larose,” which earned international acclaim and even tied with top Bordeaux greats on tasting panels . The estate also made New Zealand’s first commercial olive grove . The property features a covered Veranda Café overlooking the vines, a landscaped lawn and deck area surrounded by olive trees, and a scenic barrel-loader entrance. With its award-winning wines, lush views of rolling vines, and Old-World charm, Stonyridge has become one of Waiheke’s most iconic destinations (even named a “must-visit” winery by UK media ). Out of its 120-seat veranda and grounds, the venue feels intimate and rustic yet refined – a signature blend of Mediterranean-style hospitality and Kiwi vineyard culture.
Events and Programming
While Stonyridge’s daily draw is wine tasting and dining, it also hosts periodic live events and private functions. Throughout the warmer months the lawn and deck come alive with music festivals, DJ parties and wine events. In recent years the vineyard has attracted international DJs and artists — for example Fatboy Slim played here in January 2023 (tickets started around NZD $175) , and Carl Cox headlined a Waitangi Day event in February 2024 (GA tickets were about $249) . These special events are usually 18+ or 21+ and sell out quickly. There are also local “Sunset Sessions,” wine-pairing dinners, seasonal set-menu lunches, and themed parties (e.g. après-ski nights, anniversary festivals and holiday gatherings). Between marquee events, visitors can join guided cellar-door tastings and vineyard tours. Stonyridge offers self-guided wine flights every day ($15–$20 per person) as well as private sommelier tastings ($30–$80 per person) . Weekend dinners often feature fixed-price sharing menus (around $79–$89 pp for groups) designed around Stonyridge’s Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Weddings and corporate retreats are booked year-round – the olive-grove setting and sunset views make it a sought-after site for celebrations .
Tickets and Booking
Stonyridge is not a traditional theatre with a box office. There is no on-site ticket window; instead, tickets for public events (concerts, festivals, etc.) must be purchased in advance online through the event promoters or official ticketing outlets. For example, past shows listed GA tickets via third-party sites, so keep an eye on announcements from Stonyridge or local event promos. Popular events often sell out, so booking early is essential. For dining and wine-tasting, reservations can be made through the official Stonyridge website or call centre. While walk-ins are welcome for deck seating and casual tastings , the kitchen and led menu meals (like the seasonal set menu) typically require booked seating. Typical price ranges: wine flight tastings start at $15–$20PP ; private tastings $30–$80PP. Large-group dinners run about $79–$89 per person . Concert tickets (when available) have ranged from mid-$100s to $250 (as in recent DJ shows ). In short, check the website for booking links, plan ahead for sold-out gigs, and plan dining reservations for bigger groups or weekend lunches.
Seating and Layout
The venue’s layout is spread across a gentle hillside. The heart is the Veranda Café – a covered, heated space overlooking the vines – which seats up to about 120 people for a sit-down dinner . Around it are open-air decks and a lawn terrace. The outdoor deck (no reservation needed) has high tables and sections for casual drinks and shared plates , plus umbrella-shaded tables on the lawn. For events, a temporary stage and standing-room areas are set up on the grass. Best views are from the veranda (for a panoramic vineyard outlook) and from the lawn/deck if you want a more relaxed vibe. Acoustic-wise, it’s all outdoors – sound carries over the valley on DJ nights, but it’s not an echoey hall, so even lawn spots hear clearly. Avoid the very back corner of the parking area (no seating) and any restricted hospitality sections. On sunny days the veranda provides shade; on cool evenings the heating keeps dinner guests comfortable.
Getting There and Parking
Stonyridge is located at 80 Onetangi Road on Waiheke Island. To get there from Auckland, take the passenger ferry (Fullers or Sealink) from downtown Auckland or Half Moon Bay to Matiatia Wharf – about a 30–40 minute ride . On the island, you can drive (car ferries from Half Moon Bay land at Kennedy Point, then it’s a 15-min drive) or catch the local bus. Bus routes 50A and 50B run from the Matiatia ferry terminal to Onetangi; get an AT HOP card and catch bus 50A/50B, which stops a short walk from Stonyridge . Once you arrive, free on-site parking is available in the vineyard’s lot (first-come basis). Ride-share services are limited on Waiheke, so many guests pre-book taxis (Waiheke Taxis or Wai Cabs from the ferry terminal) or drive themselves. Note the gravel driveway up the hill; allow an extra 5–10 minutes to walk from the main road parking to the lawn area. If flying in by helicopter, Stonyridge can arrange landing with advance notice. From nearby villages, Stonyridge is about 2 km (a 30min walk) from Onetangi Beach, and roughly 10 minutes by shuttle or bike from Oneroa village.
Inside the Venue
On entry, expect a laid-back wine-country atmosphere. Cars unload near the cellar door entrance; families can push prams (pathways are step-free, though slightly steep) . Inside the cellar door (adjacent to the deck), friendly staff offer tasting flights and will take reservation names. Deck seating is ordered at a central bar counter (no servicing), and menus are paper or digital. You’ll find glassware, bottle displays, and local art around the café. Bathrooms are clean but somewhat narrow (not fully accessible) . Coat check and cloakrooms are not provided; large bags may be subject to inspection at private events. Wi-Fi is usually available for dining guests in the café area. Credit cards are accepted throughout (no need for cash, though tipping is not common in NZ). Food-wise, a Mediterranean-inspired menu is on offer – nibbles like boards of local cheese, charcuterie and dips, plus mains like fresh fish, lamb or vegetarian plates (in the $30–$45 range). Stonyridge’s cellar door also functions as a bottle shop, so you can buy award-winning Bordeaux-blend wines (especially their Larose and Pilgrim vintages) by the bottle. For large parties, a dedicated events team can set up banquet-style service on the deck or veranda. The overall feel is casual upscale – a mix of tourists in shorts and locals in smart-casual attire, all taking in the sun-dappled views and the smell of oak in the cellar.
Nearby Amenities
The winery sits amid Waiheke’s renowned Onetangi Valley, so other amenities are close. Within walking distance are Stonyridge’s sister sites and neighbours – for instance, Tantalus Estate (restaurant and brewery) and the Heke brewery with its indoor taproom and pizza truck . The wider Onetangi area offers beaches and cafes: For example, Onetangi Beach is only about a 5-minute drive away (great for post-lunch strolls) . About 10 minutes’ drive east is the village of Oneroa, where you’ll find restaurants (Mediterranean, Pacific, and Italian cuisines), a deli, bottle shops and a post office. For pre-dinner drinks, the Vineyard’s own deck bar serves the estate’s wines and beer, or you could visit local wineries like Wild on Waiheke or Te Motu (a short hop) for more tastings. Late-night transport is usually by pre-arranged taxi since regular buses stop by evening. Nearby hotels and B&Bs in Ostend and Oneroa – such as Waiheke Island Resort or waterfront cottages – make good bases if staying overnight. With so many vineyards, breweries and eateries around, Stonyridge often makes the centerpiece of a full-day Waiheke wine-and-dine itinerary.
What Makes This Venue Special
Stonyridge is special for many reasons. Architecturally it blends rustic farmhouse and modern hospitality: original vine-laden land and century-old olive trees surround a refined cafe and verandah, giving a strong sense of place. Historically, it was one of New Zealand’s pioneering boutique wineries, planting its first vines in 1982 and producing the first Bordeaux-style reds on Waiheke . Its wines have twice put Aotearoa on the global wine map – notably the 1987 Larose vintage and the later 1996 Larose which competed with Bordeaux First Growths . Culturally, it introduced European vineyard gastronomy to Auckland’s backyard. Legendary moments include visits by dignitaries and celebrities (it hosted A-list events and performances behind the vines) and awards like “Top Ten Must-Visit” winery globally . Locals love that it feels welcoming yet top-tier – Stonyridge’s gardens and tasting rooms represent Waiheke’s relaxed but high-quality wine culture. It’s also a community hub: the golf-cart ferry, the tractor tours of the vines, even its milestone birthdays (25th, 35th anniversaries) have become island legends in their own right. Put simply, artists and audiences alike are drawn to Stonyridge’s combination of fine wine, warm Kiwi hospitality, and breathtaking Bay views – a truly unique island winery experience.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The outdoor deck is ramped, but the property is hilly and some indoor doorways and bathrooms are quite narrow . Wheelchair users may need assistance to access all areas. Service animals are permitted.
What to Bring: Sunglasses and sunscreen for the sunny deck; a light jacket for cooler evenings on the veranda. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to wander the vineyard (or join the walking tasting tour). No special attire is required – casual-smart is fine for lunch or tours, and the outdoor events are very relaxed (think NZ beach-party chic). If attending an R18/21 event, bring valid ID (drivers license or passport). Common mistakes: Don’t assume walk-ins will get a tasting if you arrive late – sessions often fill up early (one reviewer noted tours were fully booked 45 minutes after opening ). It’s best to reserve a tasting slot or come with a group booking. Also, be sure to pack water for your walk down from the car park – there is free filtered water, but it’s a short uphill trek from the road.
Age and Policies: The vineyard and café welcome children and families during daytime. However, check event details: evening concerts and parties at Stonyridge have strict age restrictions (R18 or R21 events) and enforce ID checks . No outside alcohol is permitted on-site (you can purchase drinks there). Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but large professional setups for events may require permission. There is no cloakroom, so carry what you need.
Emergencies & Facilities: First aid kits are on hand, and staff are trained in basic first aid. Cell phone coverage on Waiheke is good in most areas, and the venue has some cell boosters. Credit cards are accepted everywhere; cash is not needed unless you want to tip (not obligatory in NZ).
Other: They are very dog-friendly on the deck, so feel free to bring pets on a leash. Restroom facilities include baby-changing tables. Wi-Fi is offered to guests over lunch (ask the host). If you have any special needs (dietary, mobility, group accessibility), contact Stonyridge in advance – the team is known for their hospitable, can-do attitude.
What is the seating capacity at Stonyridge Vineyard?
The covered Veranda Café seats up to about 120 people for a sit-down meal or sitting wine tasting . In practice, events in the lawn or deck area (standing room) can accommodate more than 120, but formal seating is around 120 guests. (For large private events, tents or additional seating can often be arranged.)
What types of events are held at Stonyridge Vineyard?
Stonyridge hosts a variety of events. Regular offerings include guided wine tastings and lunches seven days a week. In the summer season it also opens for special events like wine festivals, open-air concerts and dance parties with international DJs (e.g. Fatboy Slim and Carl Cox have performed here ). The estate frequently caters to private functions too – from weddings (ceremonies in the olive grove, receptions on the veranda for up to 120) to corporate retreats. Check their website or local event listings for announced festivals and themed dinners. Ticketed events are often all-ages (21+) or over-18 and typically go on sale months in advance.
How do I buy tickets for Stonyridge events or tastings?
There is no physical box office at Stonyridge. For special concerts or festivals on-site, tickets must be purchased online from the event organizers or official outlets. Always look for official announcements or authorized sellers. For wine tastings and restaurant meals, you don’t need a “ticket” – you can simply walk in during opening hours, but reservations (via the Stonyridge website) are recommended for lunch or guided tastings to guarantee a spot. Group bookings (e.g. for 10+ people) and set-menu dinners are also handled online or by phone. In short: book online for any paid event, and call ahead to reserve large dining reservations .
How much do wine tastings cost at Stonyridge?
Stonyridge offers a range of tasting options. Self-guided tasting flights of their wines start at about NZD $15–$20 per person . There are also premium flights with top wines for around $20. For smaller private tours with a sommelier (groups up to 8), prices begin at ~$30 per person, and a special Larose vertical tasting (older vintages of the flagship wine) is about $80 per person . These prices are approximate – check current rates on the Stonyridge website. Note that guided tour slots can fill up on busy days, so arriving early or booking in advance is advised .
How do I get to Stonyridge Vineyard via public transportation?
First take a ferry from Auckland to Waiheke (Fullers or Sealink, ~30–40 minutes ). At the Matiatia ferry terminal on Waiheke, purchase an AT HOP bus card and catch bus 50A or 50B towards Onetangi . The bus stops just a short gravel drive from Stonyridge. It’s then about a 5–10 minute uphill walk along the vineyard driveway. No direct train or subway service goes to Waiheke – the ferry and local bus are the main public transport options. Taxis and shuttle vans also meet ferries regularly for the ~10 km drive to Onetangi Valley.
Is parking available at Stonyridge Vineyard and is there a cost?
Yes, Stonyridge has its own customer parking lot on-site. Parking is generally free for cellar door guests and event attendees (there is no mandatory fee). The lot is gravel and open-air, near the entrance – just look for the Stroge sign. Space is first-come, so arrive a bit early if you’re visiting on a busy weekend or attending a sold-out event. (There isn’t much street parking on Onetangi Road nearby, so using the estate’s parking is easiest.) If driving, follow the signs up the driveway from Onetangi Road until you see the carpark and hidden entry trail to the cafe.
Are children allowed at Stonyridge Vineyard?
Daytime visits (wine tasting, lunch) are family-friendly – you can bring kids or push a stroller without issue. The open lawn and deck area are casual for families, and non-alcoholic drinks are available. However, evening music events at Stonyridge are usually 18+ or 21+ and minors are not permitted to buy tickets or enter (valid ID is checked) . So for normal winery business hours kids are welcome; for nighttime DJ sets or concerts, it’s strictly adults only.
What food and drink options are available inside Stonyridge?
Stonyridge features a Mediterranean-inspired bistro menu in its Veranda Café. Expect share plates and mains such as local cheeses and olives ($12–$20), bruschetta ($23), fresh salads and gazpacho (~$15–$25), and entrees like fish, steak or lamb (typically $35–$45) . Group set menus (for bookers) include multiple courses for ~$79–$89 pp . Everything is paired with Stonyridge’s wines. There’s also a bar for casual orders on the deck (pizza, antipasto, burgers etc on the grazing menu). Don’t miss the bone-dry Larose or seasonal Pinot varieties by the glass. Soft drinks, coffee/tea, local beers and cocktails are also sold. In short, whether it’s a picnic-style grazing platter on the lawn or a multi-course dinner in the café, there are extensive options to match the wines.
Is Stonyridge Vineyard wheelchair accessible?
Access is partially step-free. The main deck and cellar door have ramps (you can get a wheelchair onto the deck), and door thresholds are wide enough . However, the estate is on a slope, so moving around requires a bit of effort. Note that the restrooms are currently narrow and not suitable for wheelchair use . If you have mobility concerns, it’s a good idea to alert the staff in advance – they are usually happy to help. Overall, the daily tasting area is mostly level, but keep in mind the grassy lawn and gravel paths when planning your visit.
Are pets or dogs allowed at the vineyard?
Friendly dogs on a leash are usually permitted on the outdoor deck and lawn. The venue is quite pet-friendly, reflecting Waiheke’s relaxed vibe. Just be sure to keep dogs away from the inside café and out of customers’ way. (Small pets can be dangerous near winery equipment, so always use the provided wait station or ask staff for a secure spot during your meal.) Stonyridge does not allow pets at formal events or inside indoor areas, but dog owners often bring their pets for a drink on deck.
What are the opening hours and best time to visit?
The cellar door and deck are open daily. Typical hours are about 11:30am–6pm on weekdays, extending to ~7pm on Fridays and from 11:00am on Saturdays . (Closures on rare festive days may occur.) For wine tasting, late-morning to early-afternoon is ideal – it’s quieter and still bright, leaving time to explore the vines. Lunch bookings often start around 12:30pm. In summer, arriving by 12pm helps you avoid the largest crowds. If you’re attending a ticketed event, arrive at the advertised gate time (often mid-afternoon) to clear ID checks. In general, M-W days see fewer visitors, and weekends can be busy, especially in December–February.
What wines is Stonyridge best known for?
Stonyridge specializes in Bordeaux-blend reds. Their signature wine is Larose , a rich Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend that put Waiheke on the world wine map in the 1980s . Larose continues to win top awards – e.g. the 1996 Larose was rated alongside Bordeaux’s first growths . Other popular reds include a Cabernet Merlot blend and a smaller-production Pilgrim merlot-dominant wine. The winery also makes a rosé and white blends in limited numbers. All wines are produced sustainably (the estate is certified organic) and sold by the bottle at the cellar door and in fine wine shops. Visitors can often try these in tasting flights or buy bottles to take home directly from the on-site bottle shop.
Can I host a wedding or private event at Stonyridge?
Yes, Stonyridge is a popular wedding venue. The ceremony is often held in the picturesque olive grove, and the reception in the covered Veranda Café overlooking the vines . The venue can seat about 120 for dinner under cover. The venue provides packages including catering, wine, and event coordination. Even outside of weddings, Stonyridge regularly hosts private corporate retreats and parties. For any private event, contact the events team in advance – they can arrange everything from audio/visual equipment to special group menus. Note that private bookings can book out well ahead of peak season.
Are credit cards accepted, or should I bring cash?
Major credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere on the premises (tasting room, café, bar) and there’s also a credit card facility in the online booking system. Cash is not needed. (However, you might want some cash if you plan to tip a tour guide or valet, though tipping is not expected in New Zealand culture.) All sales receipts and wine purchases can be paid by card. Some couples at the tasting sit at communal tables and review wines on tablets or cards if preferred. The bottle shop also has eftpos and credit card payments.
What is the history and significance of Stonyridge Vineyard?
Stonyridge was founded in 1981 by Stephen White, a pioneer in Waiheke winemaking . He planted the estate’s first vines in 1982 and produced the first vintage in 1985 . Stonyridge achieved fame with its 1987 Larose, followed by the 1996 Larose blend that competed with elite French wines . It was also New Zealand’s first commercial olive grove . Over the years Stonyridge helped establish Waiheke as a premium wine region hosted royalty, rock stars and film premieres, and has been lauded as a “must-visit” international winery . Today its story of adventure and innovation is a point of pride for Auckland wine tourism.
