Tailor-Made Wine
Tours in New Zealand
Experience the magic of New Zealand wine country with its breathtaking landscapes, renowned vineyards, and unique blend of winemaking traditions paired with Maori culture.
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Your bespoke New Zealand experience awaits
From savoring the renowned Sauvignon Blanc amidst the verdant vineyards of Waiheke Island to discovering the distinct terroir of both the North and South Islands, New Zealand offers ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the art of winemaking.
With our custom wine tours, wine connoisseurs will relish the chance to taste world-class vintages from boutique wineries scattered across regions like Marlborough and Central Otago. Cultural explorers will delight in guided tours of landscapes as diverse as the majestic Southern Alps and the geothermal wonders of the North Island, all while soaking in the vibrant Maori culture.
You also have the opportunity to gain exclusive access to some of New Zealand's most acclaimed vineyards, providing exquisite wine tastings and the chance to meet passionate producers who are making their mark in the global wine industry.
Discover other wine regions in New Zealand
New Zealand Grape Varieties:
- Auckland Auckland
- Marlborough Marlborough
- Martinborough Martinborough
- Central Otago Central Otago
- Canterbury Canterbury
- Hawke's Bay Hawke's Bay
Go to: Auckland →
Go to: Marlborough →
Go to: Martinborough →
Go to: Central Otago →
Go to: Canterbury →
Go to: Hawke's Bay →
Auckland
This region is characterized by its diverse microclimates and rich volcanic soil, which contribute to the production of a wide range of high-quality wines. The most prominent grapes grown here include Syrah, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon, each expressing the distinct terroir of Auckland with remarkable clarity and flavor.
Auckland's wine heritage dates back to the late 19th century when Croatian immigrants brought their winemaking knowledge to these shores. Today, this legacy continues with over 100 vineyards and wineries scattered across three main sub-regions: Waiheke Island, known for its premium Bordeaux-style blends and Syrahs; Kumeu, renowned for world-class Chardonnays; and Matakana, where smaller boutique wineries experiment with a variety of grapes.
Auckland’s wine region is a testament to New Zealand's prowess in producing exceptional wines. Its combination of favorable growing conditions, innovative winemaking techniques, and a deep respect for the land makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the best of New Zealand’s viticulture.
Highlights
Taste the region: Explore this incredible wine region's offerings, from Chardonnay to superb Sauvignon Blanc and unique Viognier wines. Take a day trip out of the city and enjoy a Waiheke Island winery tour or spend a day in the Kumeū sub-region.
Step into a real-life film set: Explore the enchanting world of Middle-Earth. Wander through the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, with its charming hobbit holes and lush gardens.
Rugged beauty of the West Coast: Explore Auckland's stunning Waitakere Ranges and visit the wild West Coast
Extend your time and venture north to the stunning Bay of Islands, a paradise of golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and over 140 subtropical islands.
Auckland Highlights
Marlborough
A true gem for wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and fertile soils, Marlborough has firmly established itself as the country's leading wine region—most famously, as the birthplace of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. This varietal, with its crisp, aromatic profile, has captivated palates around the globe and put Marlborough on the international wine map.
The region's unique terroir, characterized by a cool yet sunny climate, significantly influences the grape varieties that thrive here. Besides Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough also produces exquisite Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, among others. The combination of long sunny days, cool nights, and well-draining alluvial soils allows vintners to craft wines with vibrant fruit flavors, intense aromas, and high acidity—an enticing invitation to explore the complexity of Marlborough wines.
Marlborough's wineries range from large-scale producers known worldwide to small boutique vineyards that offer intimate tasting experiences. Each winery has its own story, contributing to the rich tapestry of this region’s wine culture.
What truly sets Marlborough apart is not just its wines but also its spirit of innovation and community. Winemakers here are not afraid to experiment with new techniques and varietals while sharing knowledge and resources—a testament to their commitment to elevating New Zealand wine on the world stage.
Highlights
Taste world-renowned wines: Indulge in the exquisite flavors of world-renowned wines. Marlborough, renowned for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, awaits to captivate your taste buds.
New Zealand's maritime bounty: Enjoy the shoreline cuisine and taste the local Regal Salmon, Cloudy Bay Clams, or Green Shell Mussels, each offering a unique flavor.
Outdoor activities abound: Whether it's hiking on the Queen Charlotte Track, cycling through the vineyards, or sailing in the Sounds, Marlborough offers a plethora of outdoor activities.
Transport yourself: Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, delve into local Maori history at the Marlborough Museum, or explore the historic shipwrecks in Ship Cove.
Martinborough
Martinborough village lies in the beautiful South Wairarapa, offering a range of unique lifestyles from vineyards to olive groves, cafés, beauty therapy, restaurants, hotels, cinema & gorgeous boutique retail shopping. Martinborough is famous for its 20-odd vineyards, most within walking or cycling distance of the village square. It's packed with colonial charm and crisscrossed with walking and cycle tracks to explore.
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Off-the-beaten-track: Discover the hidden gems of the rural wineries and olive groves in Martinborough and Wairarapa. Delight in the warmth of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer, and sample premium olive oils infused with a variety of flavors such as Garlic, Tuscan, Rosemary, and Basil1. Explore the unique profile of oils pressed from olives grown on trees ranging from newly planted to centuries old.
Water; the master architect: Venture through landscapes carved by water over millennia, featuring gorges, waterfalls, mountains, and coastlines. Amidst these stunning vistas, you'll find ancient olive trees, producing olive oils with deep flavors and rich nutrients.
Step back in time: Meander through charming towns such as Martinborough, Featherston, Greytown, Carterton, and Masterton. Here, you'll uncover local olive oil producers, providing opportunities to taste exceptional oils derived from varieties such as Koroneiki and Leccino, known for their excellent oil production.
Your journey into the heart of New Zealand's wine and olive oil culture awaits.
Martinborough Highlights
Central Otago
Central Otago, located in the southernmost part of New Zealand’s South Island, is one of the world’s most unique wine regions. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes of jagged mountains, glacial lakes, and winding rivers, this region offers a cool climate and diverse terroir ideal for producing exceptional wines. With vineyards perched at some of the highest altitudes in New Zealand, Central Otago is especially famous for its Pinot Noir, celebrated for its elegance, complexity, and vibrant fruit flavors.
The region’s terroir is shaped by its extreme continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, as well as mineral-rich soils of schist and gravel. These factors combine to produce wines with remarkable purity, intensity, and balance. While Pinot Noir reigns supreme, Central Otago is also known for crisp whites such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, each reflecting the region’s unique character.
The area’s boutique wineries prioritize quality and innovation, offering intimate cellar door experiences that showcase the best of their craft. Central Otago’s wine culture is complemented by its stunning scenery, luxury accommodations, and gourmet local cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
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Breathtaking beauty: Immerse yourself in the stunning Milford Sound, the Remarkables Mountain Range, and the cascading waterfalls of Fiordland National Park.
Like nowhere else: Indulge in a sensory journey through the world of Central Otago's renowned Pinot Noirs, Pinot Gris, and Riesling, crafted by our favorite producers.
Adrenaline-fueled experiences: Unleash your inner thrill-seeker in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world, where countless hair-raising activities await your every turn.
Central Otago Highlights
Canterbury
A hidden gem that beckons oenophiles and novices alike with its distinctive vintages and stunning landscapes. This region, with its cool climate and diverse terroir ranging from gravelly soils on the plains to limestone-rich areas in the hills, provides an ideal environment for growing a variety of grapes that result in wines of exceptional complexity and depth.
The star of Canterbury's vineyards is undoubtedly Pinot Noir, producing elegant and sophisticated wines that capture the essence of this unique terroir. Chardonnay also thrives here, delivering crisp, minerally wines with a delicate balance of fruit and acidity. In addition to these varietals, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling have found a favorable home in Canterbury, each expressing vibrant fruit flavors and an invigorating freshness that is characteristic of the region.
What sets Canterbury apart is the quality of its wines and the innovative spirit of its winemakers. Embracing sustainable practices, many wineries are committed to preserving their natural environment while crafting exquisite wines. This dedication to sustainability adds to the unique story of Canterbury wines, inviting enthusiasts to savor both the taste and the story behind each bottle on each wine tour.
The region's picturesque scenery, combined with its outstanding wines, makes it an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in New Zealand's wine culture and history.
Highlights
Where land meets the sea: Soak in some of New Zealand's most beautiful landscapes, including the Southern Alps, the Canterbury Plains, and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean.
Rich cultural heritage: Learn about the region's Maori and European history with numerous museums, art galleries, and historic sites to explore.
Artisanal delights: Sample the abundant fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and award-winning wines at farmers' markets, wineries, and restaurants throughout the region.
The wildest life: Join a small group for whale watching that may also feature dolphins and seals. Look for penguins and other seabirds on a wildlife cruise, or hike through protected reserves to spot native birds such as the Kiwi and the Kea.
Hawke's Bay
Known as the country's oldest winemaking region, it has cultivated an international reputation for producing some of the finest wines in the world. The secret to its success lies in its diverse terroir - a magical combination of fertile soils, long sunshine hours, and a temperate climate that creates the perfect canvas for viticulture.
The region is particularly famed for its full-bodied red wines, with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah grapes leading the charge. These varietals thrive in the warm and dry conditions of Hawke's Bay, yielding rich and complex flavors that have garnered global acclaim. However, it's not just about the reds; Hawke's Bay also produces exquisite Chardonnays and aromatic whites that reflect the unique characteristics of its terroir.
Hawke's Bay is more than just its grapes and wines; it’s a place where tradition meets innovation. Winemakers here honor their heritage by employing time-tested techniques while embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance quality and sustainability. This commitment to excellence is palpable in every bottle that comes from this region, making Hawke's Bay a true jewel in New Zealand’s viticultural crown.
Highlights
Drink in the serenity: Experience the finest regional wines with Syrah and Chardonnay varietals, in serene natural settings.
Magnificence, personified: Discover the unparalleled beauty of volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and serene pristine landscapes.
Relax and unwind: Retreat to the cozy comfort of luxurious boutique accommodations where you can be pampered and truly relax.
Hawke's Bay Highlights
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The Wild West Coast
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Explore Auckland's stunning Waitakere Ranges, a subtropical rainforest home to towering kauri trees, native plants, and New Zealand's iconic silver fern. Walk among lush greenery, learn about the forest's cultural and ecological significance, and visit the wild West Coast to stroll along volcanic black sand beaches or swim under a refreshing waterfall.
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The Hotel Britomart
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With its striking exterior of hand-crafted bricks and warm timber-lined rooms, The Hotel Britomart exudes thoughtful design at every turn. Nestled in the heart of downtown Auckland, it offers unbeatable access to the vibrant waterfront just steps away. Enjoy a seamless blend of luxury, sustainability, and impeccable service in this thoughtfully curated city retreat.
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Waiheke Island Wine Region
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Known as Auckland’s island paradise, Waiheke Island boasts stunning beaches, rolling vineyards, and a relaxed coastal charm. Its unique microclimate provides ideal conditions for producing exceptional wines, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Explore renowned wineries such as Mudbrick Vineyard, offering award-winning Syrah and breathtaking views; Cable Bay Vineyards, celebrated for its premium wines and modern dining experience; and Man O' War, known for its exceptional range of handcrafted wines set in a breathtaking beachfront location. Alongside wine tastings, discover the island’s vibrant arts scene, olive groves, and scenic trails, all set against the backdrop of sparkling blue waters and golden sands.
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Matakana Wine Region
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With its spectacular Hibiscus Coastline and stunning countryside, this region is home to some of the best-kept wine secrets that the Auckland region has to offer. Take the opportunity to taste your way through the region with stops at local wineries such as Brick Bay, Heron’s Flight, Matakana Estate or Omaha Bay Vineyard.
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Try a Vintage Taste and Ride
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Step into the vintage era and embark on a Classic Car Wine Tour in New Zealand's stunning Marlborough wine region. Choose your ride from a 1967 Ford Mustang Convertible, 1975 VW Kombi, or 1957 Chevy Bel Air.
Explore vineyards and wineries, indulging in wine tastings at small cellars and top wineries. Enjoy a fun and relaxed day, starting at a time that suits you, as you soak up the picturesque surroundings and savor the flavors of exquisite wines. It's a unique and unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts and car aficionados alike.
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Stay at the Hanz Herzog Estate
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Renowned globally for crafting exceptional, handcrafted wines, the Herzog Estate invites you to experience a truly unique and unforgettable stay in thehe gorgeous historic worker's cottage, renovated for the Herzog's whilst they were still commuting between their wine estate in Switzerland and Marlborough. Today, they love to share this hidden gem with wine lovers from all over the world. Enjoy refined luxury in your private garden with panoramic views over the vineyard, while savoring a glass of wine as you watch the stunning sunset.
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Cruise in Queen Charlotte Sound
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Embarking on a cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound offers an unforgettable experience of natural beauty and culinary delight. As you glide through the tranquil waters, you'll be surrounded by rolling hillsides and lush green native bushland. The journey is more than just a visual feast; it's also a culinary adventure. Sample the exquisite seafood, which reflects the diversity and pristine nature of the crystal-clear waters from which it is sourced. A cruise here is truly a voyage through both breathtaking scenery and delectable flavors.
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Visit Marlborough's Top Wineries
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You'll have the opportunity to visit esteemed wineries such as Allan Scott Wines, Cloudy Bay, Mahi Wine, Spy Valley, and Clos Henri, each known for their exceptional quality and unique offerings. As you tour these renowned vineyards, you'll not only taste their exquisite wines but also learn about the history and passion that drives their craft. Each wine tour offers its own unique charm, providing glimpses into the soul of Marlborough's viniculture and winemaking practices. From the lush landscapes to the intricate production processes, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the region's rich heritage and innovative techniques.
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Cycle the Remutaka Trail
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Discover the beauty of Wellington and the Wairarapa on this incredible cycling tour around the Remutaka Ranges and Pacific Ocean coast. Experience the wild side of nature, taking in breathtaking views of lush countryside, rugged mountains, and majestic shorelines. From native forests to hidden coves, you'll get an up-close look at some of New Zealand's most awe-inspiring landscapes.
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Explore Patuna Chasm
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One of the best-kept secret day walks in all of New Zealand. The ancient Patuna Chasm limestone gorge, which is majestic yet imposing, is like entering a prehistoric world. The hidden chasm, deep in private remote farmland, has become a popular Wairarapa attraction for people seeking something a bit more adventurous. Set out on a 3-hour walk through native bush, and down the Ruakokoputuna River, fossils, stalactites, flora, and fauna for stunning photo opportunities. You will get wet!
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Stay at Parehua Resort
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Set amongst Martinborough’s world-famous vineyards, with sweeping gardens and panoramic views of the rolling green hills, Parehua is the perfect expression of a charming country estate. The cottages and Villas have been individually designed, with artwork and furnishings by New Zealand designers, a fireplace, open-plan living spaces, and a fully equipped kitchen. The York Bistro serves up the very best food and wine from the region in a beautiful dining room overlooking the gardens.
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Wairarapa Wine Discovery
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This wine destination is highly underrated, which is a bonus for visitors who wish to avoid the crowds and enjoy unique, off the beaten path experiences. Sample wines at vineyards such as Nga Waka, Poppies Vineyard, or Ata Rangi. The gem here is most certainly the nationally and internationally award winning Pinot Noir.
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Stay at The Central
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The Central - a boutique luxury hotel with views of the Remarkables.
A surreal sanctuary inspired by the magic found in the surrounding nature. With a creative-cool designer style and luxe facilities, this is a high-end playground for grown-ups. The ultimate sanctuary for relaxation, from the spacious guest rooms to the hotel sauna or complimentary drinks served in a cozy shared lounge every evening
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Explore Queenstown
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Meander the shores of Lake Wakatipu and take a stroll into the Queenstown Gardens to enjoy the beautiful blooming roses of summer. Hop on the Gondola to see Queenstown from up high or walk the track for the iconic view from the Basket of Dreams of the Remarkables Range.
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Fly & Cruise Milford Sound
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Enjoy a scenic flightseeing tour over the dramatic Fjordland scenery before traversing the full length of the 7.5-mile fjord over 2 hours. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world,' Milford Sound is breathtaking in any weather. The fjord's cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards some as high as 1000 metres. When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, those waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect.
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Bannockburn Wine Touring
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Explore the wine regions of Bendigo and Bannockburn with a local guide. Enjoy tastings at estates such as Mount Difficulty, Domain Road, or Felton Road. Lunch overlooking some of the finest vineyards, landscapes and mountain scenery in the world. Afternoon tastings at Matt Connell Wines or Prophet's Rock showcase the regions premium Pinot Noir wines.
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Take the Train to Arthur's Pass
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Christchurch to Arthur's Pass on the renowned TranzAlpine train, offering breathtaking views of the Canterbury Plains and rugged mountain ranges. Meet fellow travelers in Arthur's Pass for a scenic nature tour with interpretations and short walks or a guided hike into the mountains. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Waimakariri River and Arthur's Pass National Park, with its forests, rivers, and mountain vistas.
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Take a Private Tour to Lake Tekapo
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Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Tekapo on a private day tour from Christchurch. Marvel at the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and the Sheepdog Statue, immersing yourself in the town's picturesque charm. Admire the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the awe-inspiring views of Mount Cook in the distance.
Indulge in a sampling of award-winning cheese at a local factory and visit a Salmon Farm for a unique experience. Capture the breathtaking landscapes from the summit of Mt. John at the Observatory. And finally, unwind at Tekapo Springs, dip in the hot pools, or enjoy the waterslide and aqua play area. This unforgettable journey showcases the best of Mackenzie country's natural wonders.
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Stay at the Heritage
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An iconic hotel located in the heart of the Garden City. The luxury hotel occupies an opulent Italian High Renaissance Palazzo style building. Designed by Joseph Clark Maddison and opened in 1913, the hotel is listed as a category one building on the Historic Places Trust Register, reflecting its status as a building of national significance.
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Walk Historic Christchurch
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Christchurch, the oldest established and second largest city in the country, promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture. As the gateway to the South Island, it's a must on any itinerary. The city was rebuilt after the Canterbury Earthquakes over a decade ago with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favorites.
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Picnic at Lake Taupo
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Lake Taupo in the central North Island is so much more than meets the eye. This expansive lake, which covers 237 square miles and resembles a vast inland sea, is actually part of an ancient caldera created by one of the world's largest volcanic eruptions 26,500 years ago. Beyond the lake, the region offers natural wonders like Huka Falls, where the Waikato River thunders through a narrow gorge, creating a dramatic cascade of water.
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Wai-O-Tapu Walking Tour
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This geothermal park, located near Rotorua,showcases a kaleidoscope of colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and erupting geysers, creating a truly unique and otherworldly experience. Witness the spectacular Champagne Pool, the famous Lady Knox Geyser, and explore walking trails that lead through the geothermal wonders, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's natural forces at work.
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Stay Art Deco Masonic Boutique Hotel
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A historic gem in the heart of New Zealand's renowned Art Deco capital, this boutique hotel was first established in 1861 and rebuilt following the devastating 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake.
Boasting elegant period features and a blend of classic and contemporary amenities, it offers guests a unique stay with rooms showcasing vintage charm in stunning Art Deco style. Its waterfront location provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to Napier's top attractions.
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Hawkes Bay Wine Tour
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Indulge in the delights of beautiful Hawke’s Bay Wine Country by visiting boutique wineries whilst enjoying an in-depth viticulture and winemaking encounter. While Hawke’s Bay is predominantly known for Bordeaux Reds, Syrah, and Chardonnay, the region showcases an exceptional range of wine varieties to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Renowned wineries like Craggy Range, with its iconic Te Mata Peak backdrop, offer stunning landscapes alongside premium wines. Te Mata Estate, one of the region’s oldest and most celebrated wineries, provides a rich history and a selection of exceptional wines that reflect the terroir. For a unique experience, visit Elephant Hill, where both the wine and the sweeping ocean views combine for a perfect tasting setting.
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You're in control
At Into The Vineyard, we pride ourselves on our ability to offer you complete freedom to build your perfect trip. Start with one of our many sample itineraries and customize as you desire, or start with a blank page, and with the help of our expert Trip Planners, we can create your dream wine-inspired travel experience.
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Carol F
We booked Into The Vineyard to plan a custom itinerary for our trip to New Zealand in March 2023. They did not disappoint on any level at all. They listened to our wants/travel style needs and planned accordingly. The accommodations were first class and wonderfully different in every city. The private tour drivers were excellent, very experienced and knowledgeable in every city. We could not have asked for a better experience in any aspect of this trip. Without reservation, we would recommend this company and we would use them again to plan future trips.
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Keith S
On our third trip organized by our friends at Into the Vineyard and what can I say but they have helped us with another amazing experience. Whether it was our tour of Argentina, Italy or now these two amazing countries they consistently deliver an experience that gives us a local flavor and wanting more! Always courteous and conscious of our needs and the time we have, I don’t know how they are able to help us experience so much.