About Waiheke Wine Tours Ltd™

Meet Sharon, founder of Waiheke Wine Tours

Meet Gilda

Gilda is the glue that keeps everything running smoothly. As our Brand and Partnerships Manager, she’s the Italian butterfly of our team — always bringing warmth, creativity, and a touch of European flair. Originally from Italy, Gilda has an extensive background as a sommelier and in the wine and hospitality industries across Europe and Waiheke. Her deep appreciation for fine wine and authentic experiences helps us continue to build strong relationships with our vineyard partners and guests alike.

Meet Paora, Our Cultural Māori Ambassador

We are proud to have Paora as part of our team as our Cultural Māori Ambassador. Having lived on Waiheke for more than 35 years, Paora is deeply connected to the land, sea, and community of the island.

Through his storytelling and wisdom, Paora offers guests a meaningful insight into te ao Māori, the Māori worldview, sharing the traditions, language, and values that shape life in Aotearoa. His presence adds a rich cultural layer to our tours and helps visitors feel a genuine connection to the beauty and heritage of Waiheke Island, one of the true jewels of the Hauraki Gulf.

Paora’s warmth, knowledge, and passion make every tour both memorable and deeply enriching, creating an experience that celebrates the land, the people, and the spirit of Waiheke.

Meet Debbie

Debbie is one of our wonderful long-time residents of Waiheke Island and a valued tour guide on our team. With her warm personality and deep connection to the island, she brings every tour to life through storytelling, local knowledge, and genuine hospitality.

Beyond guiding, Debbie has a passion for crafting Korowai — traditional Māori cloaks that represent strength, connection, and healing. Her creative work, Wairua te Rongoā, is a beautiful expression of Māori identity and wellbeing, born right here on the shores of Waiheke.

You can often find Debbie at the Waiheke Markets, sharing her stunning Korowai, her stories, and her aroha with everyone she meets.

Meet Caleb

Caleb is one of the most highly rated tour guides on Waiheke, known for his friendly personality and extensive knowledge of the island. When he’s not guiding, you’ll find him crafting beer and spirits, hitting the gym, or competing in local bowling tournaments.

Meet Nooroa

Originally from the Cook Islands and now a long-time Waiheke local, Nooroa is a tour guide who always goes the extra mile to make every experience unforgettable. Known for his incredible memory — he remembers every guest’s name — he adds a personal touch to every tour. He loves decorating the bus (and himself!) to match special themes, bringing extra joy and colour to the day. Outside of guiding, he’s a karaoke master and talented cartoonist. If there’s a theme, Nooroa’s your guy — keen as a bean and full of fun!

Meet Karen

Karen is warm, welcoming, and full of charm! Her gentle nature and quick sense of humour create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere on every tour. With years of experience in the tourism industry — including time with a major travel company — she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to the team. As a long-time Waiheke local, Karen loves sharing insider tips and hidden gems that make the island so special. Outside work Karen has vintage cars where her and her partner go for lovely drives. We’re lucky to have her bright energy on board!

Meet Silvia

Silvia is our vibrant Italian and Spanish-speaking guide who has called Waiheke home for many years. She delights guests with her deep knowledge of the island, sharing fascinating stories and hidden secrets along the way. With her warm, empathetic nature and passion for both yoga and fine wine, Silvia brings a calm, joyful energy to every tour — a true gem on our team.

Meet Shirley

We’re thrilled to welcome Shirley to our team! Fresh from selling her successful hospitality business in the city, she brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for great service. Shirley loves Waiheke and is excited to share her enthusiasm, laughter, and local knowledge with every guest. She’s delighted to call this beautiful island now her workplace and playground.

Meet Bonnie & Billy the Waiheke Wine Dogs
No visit to Waiheke Wine Tours’ offices is complete without meeting Bonnie and Billy! Our two Border Collies are the heart of the office and love greeting guests with wagging tails, plenty of affection and the warmest Waiheke welcome. They firmly believe every great day should start with a cuddle!