Classic New Zealand Wine Trail

This journey takes you on a drive through regions accounting for more than 80% of New Zealand's wine production. Combined with the farmers' markets, eateries and artisan food producers you'll encounter along the way, the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail offers New Zealand's most memorable wine and food experiences.

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Example Itinerary

  • 01

    Auckland

    DAY 1

    On arrival at Auckland Airport private transfer to your hotel

  • 02

    Auckland - Rotorua (230km)

    DAY 2

    Depart Auckland and drive south through farmland and forest to Rotorua, where sulphur scents and steam mark its geothermal activity. Ride the Skyline Gondola up Mt Ngongotahā for stunning views over Lake Rotorua. Enjoy wine tasting at Volcanic Hills, sampling top regional wines, then savour a buffet lunch at the Skyline Restaurant with breathtaking panoramic views.

  • 03

    Rotorua - Napier (219km)

    DAY 3

    Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel from forested hills to rugged mountains and fertile vineyards on your way to Hawke’s Bay. Known for Art Deco architecture, fine food, and acclaimed wineries, the region boasts a rich winemaking history. Red wines include merlot, syrah and cabernet blends, while chardonnay and sauvignon blanc lead the white varieties.

  • 04

    Napier

    DAY 4

    Suggested Tour – discover the passion behind Church Road wines on a guided tour through one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries. The “Behind the Scenes’ tour includes the Church Road Winery, fascinating underground museum, cellar door wine tasting and a sumptuous lunch platter.

  • 05

    Napier - Martinborough (270km)

    DAY 5

    Enjoy the clean, green Wairarapa scenery as you drive south to Martinborough. The Wairarpa wine region is packed with charm. The three sub regions of Martinborough, Gladstone and Masterton include select boutique wineries, mostly family-owned. The focus is always on quality rather than volume.

  • 06

    Martinborough - Wellington (80 km) - Picton - Blenheim (28 km)

    DAY 6

    Wellington, New Zealand’s culinary capital, offers hidden bars, cafés, and fine dining by a stunning harbour. Drop off your hire car and take the scenic Interislander Ferry to Picton. From there, drive to Blenheim in Marlborough, renowned for world-class sauvignon blanc, vibrant pinot noir, and acclaimed sparkling wines – all grown in this celebrated wine region.

  • 07

    Blenheim

    DAY 7

    Today, enjoy a Marlborough Wine Tour featuring the region’s icons: sauvignon blanc, Marlborough Sounds, and local seafood. Spend the morning wine tasting, then cruise through the scenic Sounds. Learn about its history and pioneering families, visit a marine farm, and savour fresh seafood paired perfectly with a glass of Marlborough’s world-renowned sauvignon blanc.

  • 08

    Blenheim - Christchurch (309km)

    DAY 8

    Travel along the dramatic coastline between the Pacific Ocean and Kaikoura Ranges, crossing braided rivers and farmland en route to Christchurch. A recommended stop is Kaikoura for a Whale Watching Cruise. Each tour is unique, with chances to see Giant Sperm Whales, New Zealand Fur Seals, Dusky Dolphins, and the rare Wandering Albatross.

  • 09

    Depart Christchurch

    DAY 9

    Tour ends today with the return of your rental car to Christchurch Airport depot.

Itinerary Inclusions:

Compact car hire

Boutique accomodation

Soft adventure activities

Interislander ferry crossing

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Departure Dates: Year Round

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*This itinerary can be flexible and can be amended to suit your requirements.

Speak to our New Zealand experts

Paul Webster

Paul

Australia & New Zealand Expert

 Tracey Bates

Tracey

Australia & New Zealand Expert

 Jenny Taylor-Page

Jenny

Australia & New Zealand Expert
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