Top Australia & the Pacific Spring Break - page 29

Led by a qualified wine educator, this tour explores boutique producers beyond the Martinborough Terrace — a premium journey through the wider Wairarapa, one of the most diverse and character‑rich regions of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Each day is shaped around the season, the day of the week, and your interests, allowing access to small, reputation‑driven wineries that most visitors never reach.

We offer private small-group tours in a comfortable, modern minibus — perfect for a relaxed day of discovery. Enjoy hand-picked winery visits where you’ll sip premium wines, meet local makers, and soak in the beauty of rolling vineyards and cellar doors brimming with character. With flexible itineraries, personal service, and plenty of time to savour the atmosphere, our tours are designed to give you a genuine taste of South Australia’s wine country.

Come for an exclusive experience inside the Heretaunga Studio at award-winning Smith & Sheth. This beautifully curated wine journey invites you to experience wine through all your senses in a thoughtful, intimate environment. Every detail is intentional, every pour personal. Imagine fine wine, beautiful design, with immersive storytelling. Plus, we get to taste wine straight from the barrels. After Smith & Sheth, we'll visit a second Urban Winery where creativity, craft, and bold winemaking come to life in unexpected ways... The Urban Wine Tour is not your average wine tour. It's a fresh alternative to the traditional Wine tastings, taking you beyond the vines and into exciting urban spaces. This is wine tasting reimagined — stylish, intimate, and full of surprises. This is Hawke's Bay Wine Country with a twist. - Small Group Tour. * To request Alternative start times or tour customisations - Book on our Mates Travel website.

The Craggy Range Deluxe is a celebration of Hawke’s Bay’s most iconic landscapes and wine experiences. Your day begins at the world-renowned Craggy Range, where you'll take in the beauty of this architecturally stunning winery, nestled beneath Te Mata Peak. Discover their winemaking philosophy, enjoy a guided tasting of their exceptional wines with a tasty Platter, then take a behind-the-scenes look through the fermentation rooms and underground cellar. From there, we ascend to the summit of Te Mata Peak, where panoramic views stretch across the Heretaunga Plains to the coastline—an unmissable highlight that captures the heart of Hawke’s Bay. After soaking up the beauty of Craggy Range and Te Mata Peak, we’ll make our way to a second boutique winery, often Te Mata Estate, for one more tasting experience Note: The second winery is often Te Mata Estate, but it may change depending on availability This is a Private Experience

This isn’t just a pub crawl — it’s Sydney’s history served with a drink in hand. Join us on a walking tour through The Rocks, stopping at four of the city’s most iconic heritage pubs. Along the way, you’ll hear true tales of convicts, larrikins, corrupt officials, and colourful locals who shaped the city — often over a pint. Enjoy a middy of beer, glass of house wine, or soft drink at each stop as you soak up stories of rum deals, razor gangs, and revolution. Led by a passionate storyteller, this is the past as you’ve never heard it: gritty, funny, and poured fresh.

Go behind the scenes and discover how great craft beer is made with an immersive brewery experience. Explore the brewing process from grain to glass, hear the stories behind the beers, and gain insight into the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every batch. The experience includes a guided tasting of signature brews and a refreshing pint of your favorite beer to enjoy at the end of the tour. Perfect for beer lovers looking for an authentic and memorable brewery adventure.

This intimate experience is more than just a wine tasting—it's a guided mini-masterclass showcasing some of the most fascinating and innovative wine styles in Australia. The lineup of minimal intervention wines is broad and thought-provoking, blending contemporary classics with experimental and historical winemaking techniques. From sherry-style wines aged under a veil of flor yeast to bold Saperavi matured for six months underground in Georgian terracotta qvevri, there’s something here to intrigue every kind of palate. Seated in the plush comfort of our velveteen tasting lounge, guests are taken on a personalised journey through six wines, each selected to match your taste and curiosity. Over a relaxed 90 minutes, your host will introduce each wine with engaging insights into its origin, philosophy, or winemaking method—turning a simple tasting into a rich and memorable wine experience.

Discover the iconic sights of Sydney on this leisurely city hike. Enjoy a scenic 3 hour walk that takes you from Circular Quay to the breathtaking Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, through the lush Royal Botanic Gardens, and into the historic district of The Rocks. The hike features mostly flat paths, making it accessible for all. Conclude your adventure with a delicious 'a la carte' lunch at the famous Opera Bar, offering stunning views of the harbor. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to explore Sydney's highlights with an expert guide. - 3 hour guided hike exploring Sydney's top attractions - See the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Botanic Gardens - Enjoy an 'a la carte' lunch at the scenic Opera Bar - Ideal for leisurely walkers, with mostly flat terrain

Experience stunning landscapes and taste some of New Zealand’s finest wines on this relaxed day tour through the Gibbston Valley with Ultimate New Zealand Tours. Visit multiple cellar doors to sample a variety of exceptional wines—without the worry of driving. With convenient round-trip transfers from Queenstown, everyone in your group can sit back and savor the journey. Discover the art of winemaking in the region while soaking in breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu, the Shotover River, and other Central Otago highlights.

Discover Melbourne’s nightlife on a guided bar experience through the heart of Melbourne. This immersive tour takes you beyond the obvious and into the city’s hidden drinking culture — from secret laneway gems to vibrant rooftop retreats. Wander through Melbourne’s iconic graffiti-lined laneways and slip behind unmarked doors into intimate speakeasies and quirky hidden bars. Sip expertly crafted cocktails in venues full of character, hear stories of the city’s colourful past, and uncover bars housed in heritage buildings dating back to Melbourne’s gold-rush era. Enjoy panoramic skyline views from rooftop bars, soak up the atmosphere of candlelit hideaways, and experience the creativity that makes Melbourne one of the world’s great bar cities. Along the way, your local guide shares insider tips, local history, and recommendations to keep your afternoon and evening going long after the tour ends. Perfect for visitors, friends, celebrations, or locals wanting to rediscover their city

This tipsy tour guides you through some the history of Collingwood and Fitzroy. Live music has been integral part of Melbourne for the last 50 years learn how this unique culture came into being, some of the biggest bands which have played, and the culture that surrounds it. Perfect for solo travellers looking to meet people, get tips and find some hot spots.

A private Gibbston Valley wine tour crafted just for you—visit handpicked cellar doors, enjoy tailored tastings, and take in breathtaking scenery. Experience Central Otago’s best wines with exclusive access and the flexibility to follow your own pace. This boutique journey combines world-class Pinot Noir, intimate cellar doors, and stunning alpine views, offering a tour made just for you.

Wine Hopper partners with the region’s best producers—from award-winning Shiraz and Riesling specialists to boutique estates offering unique blends and gourmet platters. Choose your own adventure—hop off at any participating cellar door, enjoy tastings, cellar-door experiences, and lunch at your leisure, then hop back on to continue when you’re ready. The Wine Hopper tour departs from 7 Akuna St, Canberra and visits the regions most celebrated wineries, including McKellar Ridge Wines, Murrumbateman Winery, Eden Road Wines, Murrumbateman Country Inn, Shaw Estate, Four Winds Vineyard, Dionysus Winery, Clonakilla, and The Vintners Daughter. Our comfortable buses run on a continuous loop. No need for a designated driver—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. Perfect for: – Couples seeking a romantic escape – Groups celebrating birthdays, reunions, or other events – Solo adventurers eager to explore at their own pace – Visitors and locals who want a stress-free wine experience

Experience Victoria’s premier wine region on The Yarra Vine, Views & Vibes Tour. Departing from the Ibis Melbourne. Indulge in the ultimate showcase of the Yarra Valley's world-class cool-climate wines on a beautifully paced, connoisseur-focused journey. Your day opens with a sweet morning teaser at the local Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, where you can marvel at premium artisan displays and view expert chocolatiers at work. From there, we dive into the valley's premier cellars, starting with a comprehensive tasting flight at the stunning 150-acre YarraWood Estate, followed by a leisurely lunch break. In the afternoon, we ascend into the steep hills to visit the legendary benchmark cellars of Coldstream Hills, before concluding our tasting experience at the iconic, historic estate of Yarra Yering. Complete with ancient volcanic soils, rich regional storytelling, and deep-rooted winemaking passion, this relaxed tour captures the very best of Australia's premier wine country.

Discover the essence of South Australia’s food and wine culture on this three-day adventure through renowned regions. Begin in McLaren Vale, tasting exquisite Italian varietals at top wineries, followed by an authentic Italian lunch. The second day takes you to the Adelaide Hills for artisanal charcuterie and exceptional sparkling wines. Finally, immerse yourself in Barossa's German heritage with bold Shiraz and a long lunch among stunning vineyards. This private tour for small groups (2-4) offers exclusive winery access and tailored culinary experiences, ensuring a memorable exploration of the region. - Indulge in exclusive wine tastings and gourmet meals - Visit the stunning McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, and Barossa Valley regions - Private tour designed for intimate groups of 2-4 - Experience the rich cultural heritage of South Australia

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Waipara Springs, founding winery and restaurant of the Waipara Region, was established in 1989 and remains an entirely owned and operated Family Estate located in the heart of the Waipara Valley, approximately 60 kilometers north of Christchurch, New Zealand. It stands as one of the founding wineries in the region and is now managed by the third generation of the family. We respect the importance of our customers and ensure that the service we provide is in keeping with their expectations. Waipara Springs is available and the perfect venue for all occasions including casual dining, group lunch bookings, corporate functions, weddings and wine tastings.

Discover the stunning Adelaide Hills on this shared tour that combines exquisite wine tasting with unique animal encounters. After a picturesque journey through the Adelaide Hills we begin your day with delicious scones, with tea or coffee at Beerenberg Farm. Our 2nd stop is a visit to a premium boutique winery where you'll sample a selection of their wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Haus restaurant in Hahndorf, including a glass of beer or wine - (Children's lunch at own cost) Explore the charming streets of Australia's oldest German town and take in breathtaking views from Mount Lofty Summit. Top off the day with a private animal encounter with one of the qualified keepers in a safe, natural habitat! Meet and take amazing memorable photos of hand-raised, friendly native Australian animals like Wombats, Wallabies, Quokkas, Squirrel Gliders, Tawny Frogmouths and reptiles, and learn about care of the environment and ensuring the future of our beloved critters.

Join us for a great day out in the Barossa Valley with a perfect mix of fun and facts, in a small group of like-minded folks. Our friendly guides have a wealth of knowledge of the local wines, history of the region with maybe a few ‘dad’ jokes thrown in for good measure (sorry)! With a max of 10 in the group you can be certain of a personalised tour, catering for your tastes with some new found friends. We typically visit 3 boutique wineries + lunch and at each winery you will be introduced to the friendly Cellar Door host, who will share the stories of the wines and the history of the winery. Tasting fees may apply and can be paid direct on the day You may get to meet the winemakers, tour behind the scenes and even (subject to availability) taste wine straight from the barrel. Top off the day with a visit to Maggie Beers Farmshop and a scenic drive through the historic Seppeltsfield region or section of the Adelaide Hills, where we play ‘spot the wildlife!’

Escape the city for a relaxed afternoon in Auckland’s wine country. Enjoy boutique cellar-door tastings, a behind-the-scenes visit inside a working family winery, and time to unwind among the vineyards just 30 minutes west of Auckland. This half-day experience visits welcoming cellar doors and boutique wineries where generations of winemaking families have built a reputation for producing excellent wines. The region’s wine story began in the late 1800s, when Dalmatian immigrants first planted vines in the fertile soils of West Auckland. Travelling with your own local guide, you’ll visit local vineyards and enjoy cellar-door tastings surrounded by vines and countryside. Along the way you'll step behind the scenes inside a working 5th-generation family winery, offering insight into where grapes from the surrounding vineyards begin their journey from vine to glass. Time among the vineyards offers the chance to slow down, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic wine region.

Escape Sydney for a private Hunter Valley day designed around your pace. Visit selected wineries, enjoy gourmet local produce, and take in vineyard landscapes in Australia’s oldest wine region. Enjoy private touring without large groups or rushed schedules. Depending on availability and timing, your itinerary may include up to three winery visits plus optional cheese, chocolate, dessert or gourmet produce stops. If a preferred winery is unavailable, your host will arrange a suitable alternative. Highlights: • Private door-to-door pickup from cruise terminals, airports or Sydney CBD • Up to three selected Hunter Valley winery visits, subject to availability • Optional wine, cheese, chocolate, dessert and gourmet produce experiences • Flexible itinerary with time to enjoy each destination • Premium air-conditioned vehicle suited to your group size • Local expert host throughout the day • Ideal for couples, families, friends and small private groups

This is not a standard Swan Valley wine tour. This is a premium private experience with included wine tastings, an exclusive behind-the-scenes winery tour with the winemaker, an award-winning distillery tasting and lunch at one of the valley’s finest winery dining venues — all created just for your group. Travel in comfort in a luxury Mercedes V-Class with owners Ben or Lauren as your personal hosts. Your day is curated exclusively for you, visiting a handpicked selection of premium Swan Valley wineries known for quality wine, beautiful settings and warm local hospitality. We avoid the crowded tour-bus venues and rushed cellar door stops, giving you more time to relax, taste properly and enjoy the best of the region. Step beyond the cellar door, hear the stories behind the wines and experience the Swan Valley in a more personal and memorable way. Private. Premium. Exclusive.

Step into the charming barrel-shaped cellar door at Hungerford Hill for an immersive wine tasting experience in the heart of The Hunter Valley, NSW. Engage with knowledgeable staff as they guide you through a selection of exquisite wines, providing insights into each varietal and tailored recommendations to suit your palate. This 60-minute session is a perfect introduction to the Hunter Valley, making it an enriching stop on your wine journey. Enjoy the warmth of the atmosphere and the beauty of the vineyard while savoring some of the best wines the region has to offer.

Immerse yourself in the art of wine and food pairing with the Epic Tasting Experience at Hungerford Hill, located in Pokolbin, NSW. Over the course of 90 minutes, savor a mini-degustation of Hungerford Hill's exquisite wines, expertly matched with delightful bite-sized dishes crafted by the acclaimed two-hatted Muse Restaurant. Led by knowledgeable staff, you'll embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the harmony between flavors. An experience created over a decade ago and emulated throughout the Hunter Valley and other Australian wine regions.

Discover unique and award-winning wines in a guided tasting session at Hungerford Hill in Pokolbin, NSW. Over the course of approximately 60 minutes, indulge in three distinct flights of wine, expertly curated for comparison. This adult-only experience invites you to savor the intricate flavors and styles that define the Hunter Valley region, all while surrounded by stunning vineyard views. Perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their appreciation, this tasting offers an intimate setting with a maximum of 10 guests.