ADDRESS:   124 Ocean View Rd, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING HOURS
MAINS:   $39 – $45
WEBSITE:    theoysterinn.co.nz
CONTACT:   09 372 2222
SCORE:   16 / 20

Located in the heart of Oneroa Village, this Waiheke institution is synonymous with a good time on the island. Add the additional ingredient of renowned New Zealand chef and owner Josh Emett to the mix and you have an elegant, casual menu that is perfectly in sync with its coastal surroundings. You might start with the market fish tacos and then move on to the octopus linguine and an island coffee tiramisu. As for the main attraction? The stars are the plump and salty-fresh oysters harvested on the island on the nutrient- rich Te Matuku Oysters farm. Heavenly! A carefully curated selection of local Waiheke wines sits alongside some stunners from further afield; the cocktails range from seasonally inspired to the classics. If you miss the last ferry, you could always grab a room and stay.

IN BRIEF: Fun and fabulous: a cosy island favourite