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About Ananda Tours
The name Ananda means bliss, pleasure and happiness - Ananda's intention for
all our visitors.
Ananda Tours began touring Waiheke Island in October 1999. Instrumental in developing tourism on Waiheke, Jenny McDonald and Nigel Robinson initially planned to do art tours. Then, as vineyards began to open their cellar doors to the public, an opportunity was grasped and Ananda began to offer small, personalized and flexible wine tours to complement the growing wine industry on the island.
Beginning 10 years ago with a 9-seater Hiace, Ananda has grown to a fleet of five late-model vehicles capable of taking tours from 2 - 200 people. From an original market of summer -only tours, Ananda now offers departures 364 days of the year with a 24-hour personalised booking service. As market leaders on Waiheke, our focus now ranges from small wine tours to large incentive groups. Ananda prides itself on being able to cope with almost any request, be it vineyards, olive oil mills, scenic tours, eco tours, or visits to some of the local art galleries.
These days, Ananda continues to hold true to its original inspiration: to show visitors the very best of Waiheke - wine, olive oils, great food, scenery and art - with passion and enthusiasm. Our late-model vehicles, close relationships with local providers and highly-knowledgeable local guides ensure that visitors to the island have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Jenny McDonald
 Started Ananda Tours in 1999, not knowing much about tourism, but knowing a lot about Waiheke and the people who live here. Jenny moved to Waiheke in 1978 and worked as a district nurse and a midwife. Over the 20 years, jenny has delivered half the Island's children - or maybe just felt like it! And this has allowed her to establish great relationships with people all over the Island, from artists, to Vineyard owners; she's sure to know them (or their mothers). Jenny has a great passion for the Island, and is dedicated to ensuring our customers get the best Waiheke experience while touring with Ananda. |
Nigel Robinson
 Jenny's partner - Started with Ananda in 1999 doing art tours in one small van, while studying social work as well. Came to Waiheke from Dunedin in 1973 for a two week holiday with his brother Steve and still has one week to go! He has in-depth knowledge about the Island's wineries and thoroughly enjoys wine with good food and good company. Would like to further his wine "study" abroad, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean countries! |
Steve Robinson
 Tour Guide |
Wayne Eagleton
 Wayne Eagleton has been living on the island for the past 9 years and has come from the busy life of being a new cars operations manager for Giltrap Prestige. Prior to this Wayne spent twenty years in the wine and spirits industry, so he is thoroughly enjoying his new involvement with the Waiheke Wineries |
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