Tantalus Estate

An established vineyard in Waiheke's Onetangi Valley, shaped around the restoration of a significant wetland at the heart of the estate.

Set within the 8.3-hectare property, the wetland forms part of a freshwater system feeding into Okahuiti Creek and the Hauraki Gulf. Following decades of disturbance, Luiten Ortega developed a staged masterplan to restore its ecological function, expand native habitat and establish a long-term framework for its care.

More than 5,000 native plants have been established across the wetland and surrounding banks. Kānuka, harakeke, tāwhiri karo, nīkau and kōwhai are layered with sedges, grasses, ferns and shrubs, creating habitat for native birds and invertebrates as the landscape matures. An elevated boardwalk winds through the wetland, carefully routed around existing trees and alongside the watercourse, allowing visitors to experience the landscape at close range while protecting the habitat below.