New Zealand: Classic Wine Trail Tour

Experience Auckland, a stunning natural playground and melting pot of cultures with a strong Māori influence. Straddling natural harbors on the Hauraki Gulf and the Tasman Sea, Auckland sits on a volcanic isthmus flanked by contrasting coastlines. From volcanic peaks, lush native canopies and black sand beaches, to hip entertainment districts, contemporary art scenes and gourmet experiences, there’s something for everyone in this populous waterfront city, the largest in New Zealand! The city also entertains adrenaline seekers at the iconic sky tower while rugby fans can catch an All Blacks’ match the country’s biggest stadium, Eden Park. Relax in the laid-back neighborhoods or head out to explore the series of walking paths that present spectacular vantages of the Auckland region. Short ferry rides away, the nearby islands are home to boutique vineyards, wineries, olive groves, rainforests, and reserves. Enjoy tranquil island vistas with a plethora of sailboats on the east, and the Waitakere Ranges with rugged black sand beaches and farmlands on the west.

Spend a day tasting premium wines, amid vineyards renowned for Chardonnay, Syrah and Cabernet-dominant Bordeaux blends, as well as a range of other local products. Upon arrival at your first stop, an award-winning olive farm, join a guided walk of the plantation. Then, witness a demonstration of the harvesting techniques and understand the process of making extra virgin olive oil. Next, head to a winery located atop a mountain and learn how grapes are grown to achieve the best vintage. After a tour of the vineyard, proceed to the tasting room to sample some wines paired with snacks to complement them. The cellar door with its floor-to-ceiling windows allows you to take in the picturesque scenery. Later, drive along a panoramic vista that brings you to a boutique winery, which is famous for its small batch wines. Sample the estate wines and honey and avocado oil, which is sold on-site. Lunch on a platter of Te Matuku Bay oysters, artisan cheese and meats, accompanied by house wine and views of Hauraki Gulf. (Duration: full day; Time: 0945 hrs; Private activity; No transfers; Starting point: Waiheke Island Ferry Terminal; Travel time to activity: 45 mins; Meals included: lunch & tastings; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; En route activity: no; Not available on Christmas Day & Good Friday)

A peaceful seaside town, Napier stands on Hawke’s Bay by the coast of New Zealand’s North Island. This seaport is best known for its resilient comeback following a devastating earthquake in the 1930s. Redeveloped according to the design and architecture prevalent at the time, the city displays a number of iconic Art Deco building and structures. Savor the flavors offered by some of New Zealand’s best regional eateries and wineries, especially around the cliffs of Cape Kidnappers, which is also a destination for golfers. The National Aquarium of New Zealand with its marine exhibits and underwater tunnel is worth a visit, as is the statue of the Maori maiden by the waterfront.

Set out to discover the secret behind the award winning wines that the Hawke’s Bay region is famed for. Accompany your wine specialist on a behind the scenes journey to the many wineries and vineyards in the area. Learn about the process of crafting fine wines straight from innovative vintners and winery owners. Later, sample these fine wines under the guidance of experts who will help you recognize the subtle flavor and aroma that gives each wine its unique identity. Savor the taste, smell, and feel of numerous other epicurean delights that are produced in this region such as delicious breads, fresh vegetables, and rich cheese. Interact with the enthusiastic food producers who have harnessed the rich soil and warm climatic conditions to ensure a steady supply of excellent food. (Private activity; Full Day; Time of Day: 0930 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that an optional full winery lunch can be arranged at an additional cost.)

Discover Wellington, a cosmopolitan harbor city brimming with art, culture, entertainment, and natural wonders. Wellington is also home to the protected Matiu/Somes Island reserve, and the Zealandia Ecosanctuary that conserves rare native flora and fauna including the ancient-looking tuatara! Explore the city’s wooded hillsides, swanky bays, and golden sand beaches that provide for great watersports adventures and leisure activities. As the country’s moviemaking hub, Wellington offers exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, theater shows, workshops, studio visits, and screening of old-time classics at restored cinemas. World-class coffee and craft beer dominate the food culture at bohemian markets, gourmet streets, and waterfront neighborhoods. A variety of interactive exhibits and immersive museums showcase contemporary Māori and Pasifika art experiences. Take a ride up Wellington’s historic cable car to Kelburn and stroll down the Mount Victoria Lookout Walkway that affords panoramic vistas of the city.

Enjoy the quaint agricultural town of Blenheim, the gateway to the boutique wineries of the world-famous, wine-growing Marlborough region. Framed by mountains and tucked in the picturesque Wairau Valley fed by its namesake river in New Zealand’s South Island, Blenheim has a relaxed vibe cherished by residents and visitors alike. The town is famous for its artisanal food culture, particularly handmade chocolates paired with fine vintages. World War history comes to life at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center that boasts theatrical exhibits and rare memorabilia of WWI and WWII airplanes featuring the personal collection of Peter Jackson, of the Lord of the Rings fame.

Explore Marlborough in two different ways on this tour that includes a visit to local wineries and a cruise. In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to two wineries, where you can sample a range of fine wines. Interact with the people who make the wines and learn all about the art and history of winemaking in the region. Gain insight into what makes the Marlborough blends so special as you enjoy a tasting session. Then, tuck into a delicious barbecue lunch before heading out on a cruise. Drive to Marlborough Sound and hop aboard the ship. Sail on the calm waters and sample a range of seafood delicacies, prepared with fresh ingredients. Sip on a delicious glass of Marlborough sauvignon blanc and take in the picturesque views, before heading back to shore. (Duration: full day; Shared activity; Shared transfers)

Christchurch is a vibrant city with a rich English heritage nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, bordered by the Waimakariri River and the Pegasus Bay. With innovative architecture, public installations such as the 185 Chairs, and international street art, Christchurch is undergoing an extraordinary urban regeneration. Explore Quake City, a space that showcases the aftermath of Canterbury’s recent earthquakes, Māori galleries that contain some beautiful pounamu (greenstone) pieces, and the International Antarctic Center with its interactive and educational exhibits. Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens offer delightful green spaces within the city. Not to be missed is the hop-on-hop-off loop tram, a fun ride infused with commentary, to navigate the city’s highlights. For a more leisurely experience, go punting on the Avon River, passing through the heart of Christchurch, and sit back and relax on a gondola ride that offers stunning vantages of the Canterbury Plains, the Banks Peninsula, and the Southern Alps beyond!

Queenstown is where adventure seekers head out to for a shot of adrenalin! The region’s dramatic landscape is wrapped around the scenic lakes, velvety mountains and valleys of the Southern Alps. Summer or winter, there’s always plenty to do along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the slopes of the Coronet Peak. Arguably the bungee jumping and skydiving capital of the world, get ready to plunge down bridges, planes and hill tops. The fiord of Milford Sound, home to the rare black coral, seal colonies, penguins, dolphins and the Mitre Peak, is not too far away. Kayaking along Lake Wakatipu, camping at the Routeburn Track, jet-boating down the Shotover and Dart rivers, and skiing down Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are some of the city’s popular pastimes. Queenstown also forms a base for exploring South Island’s other adventure destinations, charming vineyards and old mining settlements around Wanaka, Glenorchy and Arrowtown.

Taste the fine wines and culinary delights of the Central Otago region on this enjoyable tour. Set off with your experienced guide to three prime wine-producing areas – Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell. Begin with a walk around New Zealand’s largest wine cave in the Gibbston Valley. Stop at four different vineyards to sample their wines. The wines will be paired with a cheese board featuring locally produced cheeses. Your guide will share anecdotes and facts about the region’s history and importance as a wine-producing hub. Relish a gourmet barrel-cooked lunch accompanied by matching wines. Afterwards, time and weather permitting, explore the historical settlement of Old Cromwell. This is home to gold rush-era buildings. You could also enjoy a stroll around picturesque Arrowtown, another gold mining town, which sits by the river and is surrounded by majestic peaks. Wind up your tour on a sweet note, by sampling some artisanal chocolates. (Duration: full day;Time: 0930 hrs; Shared activity & transfers; Group size: max 12 ppl; Meals included: lunch and wine tastings; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Not available on Christmas Day, Good Friday, and Anzac Day)