Opening up island's top homes

A property in Onetangi.

Fundraising tour next month will visit award-winning and beachfront houses plus an original bach.

The public will be able to step inside 10 of Waiheke Island's most exclusive homes during the Waiheke House Tour.

Next month's event, run by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery as a fundraiser, takes in three beachfront homes, an original bach and three award-winning homes, including one at Onetangi which won 2013 Best House in Home New Zealand magazine's Home of the Year.

Another highlight will be the Frenchmans Hill Estate, which incorporates a five-bedroom home as well as a boutique wine-tasting shop.

Those on the tour will be able to talk to some of the owners and architects of the homes, including professional staff from Auckland firm Stevens Lawson, which designed the Onetangi award-winner.

A gallery spokeswoman said visitors would get full access to the properties, including the gardens and the interior of the homes.

The one-day tour, on March 12, includes a picnic lunch provided by Peacock Sky Vineyard.

The public can either take in the tour by bus, which costs $75, or self-drive at a reduced rate of $65.

Ticket holders are advised to take the 9am Fullers ferry from downtown Auckland on the day. The tour will be finished in time to make it back home on the 4pm ferry.

Tickets can be bought from the Waiheke Community Art Gallery on 09-372-9907 or by emailing marketing@waihekeartgallery.org.nz

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