The Report
Hello you nomadic Party Animals. Today our reporters are excitedly yelling 'Auck you!". Why? Because we are quite enamored with Auckland, New Zealand and want to swim all the way over to Waiheke Island. In this adventure capital of the world you just might find yourself partaking in bungee jumping, flying through the air as you skydive or simply planting your feet firmly on the ground on an incredible hike. In addition to the breathtaking scenery of Auckland how does saltwater air, weathered furniture, wicker, vintage cane chairs and bright striped yellow VW vans sound to you? Yep, we thought so.
The gem of a venue that caught our eyes and got our reporter notepads out is The Oyster Inn with glorious views of the Coromandel and beyond. This Victorian style building and seaside hideaway is nestled on Waiheke Island, a mere 40 minutes from Auckland. Located in the heart of Oneroa village, half of the property once housed the local island newspaper ‘The Gulf News’ which has been there for 31 years. With 3 gorgeous guest rooms, the hotel offers the perfect intimate escape for a getaway, events, and/or a delicious dining experience.
History Lesson. The Oyster Inn is the brainchild of two former Londoners who fell in love with the charming island after careers in the marketing and event industries. They hired Auckland-based designer Katie Lockhartto do the interior design. She utilized locally made furniture crafted from reclaimed wood, custom designed pieces and vintage staples.
HOW WILL MY GUESTS GET HERE: Once landed in Auckalnd take a bus or taxi to the ferry building and take the regularly scheduled service to the island by Fullers.www.fullers.co.nz
The Scoop
The Oyster Inn has gorgeous north facing sea views across Oneroa Bay towards the Coromande. With collections of beautiful found objects from the ocean perched on shelves and tables, this beachy boutique Inn is both carefree and calming. The Oyster Inn will work with you to tailor-make an unforgettable menu for your celebratory occasion and/or group getaway. The Venues: The Inn is available for private hire - the perfect place for a corporate event, group getaway, private celebration, reunion, or intimate, cozy wedding.
Pearl Room. With grandstand views of Oneroa Bay, The Oyster Inn's stylish private dining space is where you will find yourself sitting upon fabulous vintage cane Thonet Era Chairs. The Pearl Room is ideal for special occasions: a chic cocktail party, a lavish seated dinner for up to 32 guests, rehearsal dinners, etc. The room is also stocked with all the necessary technology to make it a meeting venue or to showcase embarrassing videos/slideshows while roasting and toasting your friends.
The Restaurant. With blissfully breathtaking views you can host up to 100 guests for a celebration whether it be a wedding, corporate lunch, dinner or gathering. Your guests will also be able to dine on the veranda under swaying palm trees on beautiful weathered metal chairs. We love a well designed venue that doesn't require bringing in rental furniture!
What will my guests eat? Let's get shucked! The Oyster Inn will serve up honest, simple dishes made with the best local produce, fresh seafood and shellfish. Chef Cristian Hossack (formerly head chef at London's Providores) and his team are obsessed with the provenance of everything that is served. A local fishing boat catches the fish for Oyster Inn and they shuck oysters from around New Zealand, including Waiheke's very own Te Matuku oysters. The vegetables are grown especially for the venue by local gardeners.
Bonus
You can feel confident while planning your party or group getaway that this venue will deliver. The Oyster Innis an award-winning restaurant and boutique hotel! You and your guests can take a seat in the ocean-view restaurant verandah or in the breezy dining room and savor the menu inspired by coastal classics. You can also simply enjoy a summer cocktail or crisp glass of wine at the bar. Arrive when you like, eat when you like - the kitchen is open all day! Forgot something? Pop in to check out the chic little beach shop with cool kaftans and bright colored beach bags.
Pillow Talk. This Stylish beach boutique has 3 luxurious guest bedrooms all with super king size beds.
Bragging Rights: This hotel/venue has been featured in magazines including Condé Nast Traveler, Haarpers Bazaar, Travel + Leisure, and more!
STYLE FOR YOUR SETTING
The Oyster Inn already comes chock full of incredible decor, dining chairs, and scenery. You truly do not need to add much to the ambiance for an event here.
1.Clear Oversized Apothocary Vases: These stunning statementslook beachy and fit right in with the setting of the venue. Oversized and perfect for a seaside setting without taking away from the already impeccable design of the spaces. 2. Soft + Whimsical Invitations: The signage and branding of The Oyster Inn inspired us to grab these invitations. A touch of whimsy, happy and the perfect way to set the tone for a soiree here. (Via Oh So Beautiful Paper) 3. Sandy Yellow Striped Vases: The yellow stripes of The Oyster Inn are just too good to not incorporate into a dinner party/event here. These handcrafted muted yellow containerswith sandy accents are the perfect touch for the tables.
Inside Scoop
Whether hosting an event or just gathering for a group getaway here, you MUST TRY the fish & chips. Using triple cooked chips, this is a standout favorite of customers. Another fave is the Te Matuky oysters which come locally from the island, so go get shucked!
If your group getaway or intimate event requires more than the 3 luxury rooms/8 guest accommodations at the venue, The Oyster Inn has relationships with nearby providers for your group lodging needs.
Highlight Reel
- A yellow & white striped VW Bus!
- 3 Luxury and charming rooms for you and your guests on the property
- All food served at the award-winning restaurant is sourced from local gardeners and fishermen.
- If you forget something there is a super chic shop onsite with cute kaftans and colorful beach bags.
- Multiple venue spaces to choose from - the furniture is so incredible you won't have to rent any for your event!
Around Town
The island is known for it's incredible vineyards, so sit back and relax on a group tour with your fam and friends. Waiheke Island Wine Tours will take you on a day of views, vines and wines. For small groups of up to 20 people in two vehicles you will sample 14 great wines at three trophy-winning vineyards while viewing jaw-dropping scenery & stunning beaches. (visit: waihekeislandwinetours.co.nz)
For your overflow of guests, stay at Connell's Bay! Not only is the charming cottage adorable and close to Oyster Inn, but there is an INCREDIBLE sculpture garden on the property. Artworks are by New Zealand sculptors.The collection contains over 28 sculptures! (Visit: connellsbay.co.nz)
Take your guests or crew on a fun adventure with Wild On Waiheke! This unique, boutique, multi-activity venue offers a diverse range of fun outdoor activities (including archery and laser claybird shooting), licensed café and brewery, set within the magic of a Waiheke vineyard. (Visit: wildonwaiheke.co.nz)
VENUE: The Oyster Inn ; Photos provided courtesy of The Oyster Inn.
