On the eastern edge of Waiheke Island, overlooking Cowes Bay in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Distilling Co makes Spirit of Waiheke Gin. The recipe uses eleven botanicals, among them giant kelp, bright citrus and cardamom, and the 42% ABV gin is sold in sizes from a 5 cl miniature to a 70 cl bottle. In 2024, the Juniper Awards gave it a gold medal. Waiheke, a short ferry ride from Auckland, is best known for its vineyards, olive groves and beaches, and the distillery shares that island setting.

Citrus · Herbal · Earthy

The distillery describes the gin as smooth and approachable, with a clean, lingering finish and a subtle lift of lime. Giant kelp links the gin to its island setting with a soft, savoury depth rather than a salty taste. Cardamom brings a gentle, aromatic spice, while the citrus keeps the profile fresh; cardamom and citrus are classic partners in gin, and here they frame the softer, savoury kelp. The other eight botanicals are not disclosed.

In the glass, the lime note comes first, followed by juniper and the warmth of the cardamom. The kelp is felt more in the texture and the length of the finish than as a distinct flavour. At 42% ABV, it is easy to drink neat over ice, and a twist of lime peel brings out the citrus. Its smoothness makes it a good gin to share with friends discovering the island's flavours.

The distillery recommends Fever-Tree Mediterranean or Elderflower Tonic with a twist of lime. The Mediterranean tonic keeps the gin light and herbal, the elderflower version adds a soft floral note. For a drink without quinine, it also suggests Fever-Tree Pink Grapefruit or Lime & Yuzu sodas, both of which suit the citrus side of the gin and keep the drink light on a summer afternoon.