Top New Zealand Spring Break - page 7

Our tour of our working cheese factory will give you insights into all the hard work that goes into making artisan cheeses as well as learning about our Whitestone Cheese history. You'll also learn about the amazing geographical location of North Otago which really is the key to our delicious cheese! You will get to view different parts of our factory from specially designed viewing platforms which enable you to view how we make our cheese. We then finish our tour with a generous tasting platter teamed up with tastings of local wines for you to enjoy!

Our Taste Of Central Tour presents a chance for a remarkable tasting adventure. This tour is designed to discover three subregions of Central Otago, providing private tasting sessions showcasing award-winning local wines. It combines deep-rooted history with visits to iconic sites, and exclusive boutique vineyards. Our tours are all private and you will not be joining others. Guests will travel in luxury, indulge in a gourmet lunch, and savour cheese boards alongside their tasting journey while exploring historical landmarks and picturesque locations. Experience the beauty of Central Otago as you embark on a journey to explore three unique subregions. We visit boutique vineyards favoured by locals and sample a range of exceptional wines, from cool climate varietals. Discover the unique characteristics of each region and take in the breathtaking views spanning from Queenstown, the Kawarau Gorge, to the historic gold fields of Bannockburn and Cromwell.

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 small Group Tour To request customisations, Book on our Mates Travel website

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine region and a renowned foodie hotspot. Customize your itinerary on this private tour from Picton and taste an array of regional delicacies, sweet treats, and fine wines. Optional activities include a visit to the Omaka Air Museum, a tour of a local brewery, a cruise around the Marlborough Sounds, and many more.

Explore Waiheke Island on foot and gain insight into the region’s rich Maori heritage on a walking tour. Hike along winding trails and enjoy sweeping views over the beaches and Hauraki Gulf from the soaring coastal headlands. Along the way, listen as your Maori guide sheds light on the region’s deep roots and shares stories about the island’s past. Stop at a local vineyard and learn of the diverse grape varietals thriving in the fertile soils, then finish with a wine tasting.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a 5.5-hour private wine tour through the breathtaking landscapes of Central Otago. Begin your journey in Gibbston, the “Valley of the Vines,” where you’ll explore picturesque vineyards and indulge in the region’s renowned cool-climate wines, including the celebrated Pinot Noir. Continue to Bannockburn, a wine sub-region with a unique terroir that contributes to the exceptional flavors of its wines, particularly the renowned Pinot Noir. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, followed by a visit to Cromwell itself, where orchards, vineyards, and lakeside views provide a scenic backdrop for culinary and vinicultural exploration. Relish a curated lunch at one of the region’s top vineyards, savoring local flavors paired with exceptional wines. Throughout the tour, you’ll experience the diverse and distinctive offerings of Central Otago’s wine country.

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.

Take a full-day wine tour from Blenheim to discover the wines of the Marlborough region, which are famous throughout the world. You’ll visit six or seven wineries for tastings and a winery lunch (own expense). Relax on this comprehensive tour that includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation, so there’s no need to risk drinking and driving or to designate a sober driver.

A promise of adventure awaits on this full day luxurious private tour to the Matakana Coast from Auckland. Experience a tasting tour to sample the very best of Matakana's wine, food & chocolate paired with a unique opportunity to experience art and nature. Discover a dynamic exhibition of large-scale sculpture set in a stunning natural environment of native bush, wildlife and ponds bursting with water lilies. Sample the many hand-crafted chocolates, artisan chocolates, handmade fudge, and classic sweets made from high quality ingredients. Matakana art, food & wine experience includes lunch at the Glass House overlooking a shimmering lake, and wine tasting of highly acclaimed range of boutique wines, in a spectacular vineyard setting. Finally compliment with a rich Italian style ice cream, artisan gelato or sorbetto to finish your day.

In the countryside surrounding Auckland, you can experience sandy beaches, towering trees, and regional delicacies, but it can be tough to know how to best explore the region on your own. On this private full-day tour, hop in the back of a luxury car with hotel or downtown pickup and let your driver-guide show you some of what the Matakana region has to offer.

Choose this day-tour for a personal and comfortable visit to a number of craft beer breweries in Wellington.  With beverages and lunch included, you’re all set to have a low-stress, informal day away from the hustle and bustle of your cruise ship. This is a great way to understand, from beer to beer, why the city is the craft beer capital of New Zealand.  Make the most of Wellington’s array of craft beer and its friendly, knowledgeable residents!

** Wine Tasting & Hot Poll all included ** Discover Auckland’s natural beauty, relaxation, and stunning views on this unforgettable tour. Start by unwinding at Palm Springs Thermal Pools, where you’ll soak in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush greenery. Then, visit the historic Hunting Lodge Winery and Restaurant, home to New Zealand’s original Sauvignon Blanc vines, and enjoy world-class wines in a scenic vineyard setting. Next, head to Muriwai Beach to witness a breathtaking sunset over the black sand beach and the Tasman Sea. Finally, enjoy a peaceful ride to Auckland City.

Take in the highlights of the Marlborough wine region around Blenheim on this full-day small-group tour from Blenheim or Picton. See Sir Peter Jackson's collection of WWI and WWII aircraft on display at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, enjoy wine tasting at two Wairau Valley wineries and lunch at one (own expense), sample chocolates at a boutique chocolatier, and benefit from included hotel pickup and drop-off.

Indulge in a premium private journey through Auckland’s renowned wine country, where rolling vineyards meet the rugged beauty of the west coast. Escape the city and explore the region’s rich winemaking heritage, tasting award-winning wines at top vineyards while soaking in breathtaking landscapes. Savor a delicious vineyard lunch surrounded by lush gardens and sprawling vines before venturing to Muriwai, home to dramatic black-sand beaches and striking cliff-top views. This immersive experience blends fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and coastal beauty for an unforgettable day in Auckland’s countryside.

This tour is designed exclusively for cruise ship passengers who want to make the most of their short time ashore. You’ll enjoy personalised attention from a passionate local guide who shares not just facts, but the hidden stories and unique character of Napier. You’ll experience Napier’s Art Deco beauty, vibrant street art, and Māori culture. From the impressive Ātea a Rangi Star Compass to the charming Ahuriri fishing village, every stop has been carefully chosen to give you a true taste of Hawke’s Bay. The tour ends with an indulgent moment – premium Hawke’s Bay wines and a platter in an iconic Art Deco building, just minutes from the port. Relax, connect, and savour the flavours of one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World before returning to your ship. We guarantee you will be back on time. If you want a shore excursion that goes beyond the typical highlights to offer authentic local experiences, cultural insights, and personal comfort, this is the perfect choice for you.

The VIP experience is designed to allow our guests to have a fully immersive experience. The experience allows you a once in a lifetime opportunity of truly experiencing Central Otago. You will enjoy private tastings in boutique vineyards, meet the wine makers, vineyard owners and viticulturist. Immerse yourself with walks amongst the vines and barrel halls to learn first hand the stories behind the labels and experience the true passion behind what’s in the bottle. We travel to four subregions in Central Otago covering multiple wine growing regions and spectacular landscapes while your qualified and industry experienced guide offering guided commentary of the rich history of the region dating back to the gold rush and wine heritage. You will visit multiple award-winning vineyards, historic sites, Gourmet lunch, a back vintage tasting of Pinot Noir at one of new Zealand’s most iconic wine stores all while travelling in luxury and style in our fleet of luxury vehicles.

There’s more to Auckland than the busy center but it can be stressful to rent a car. Simplify a day out on a private tour to Muriwai Beach, known for its black sand and gannet colony. Walk along the beach to see the birds, then enjoy wine tasting at one of the area's oldest wineries. The tour includes lunch and bottled water, to keep you energized for sightseeing.

Marlborough is New Zealand’s premier wine region and a foodie hotspot, but self-driving between wineries is risky. Taste regional delicacies, gourmet cuisine, and fine wine on this private day tour from Blenheim, to avoid tour planning. Customize your itinerary with other activities, such as visits to the Omaka Air Museum, a local brewery, or a cruise around the Marlborough Sounds. Hotel pickup and round-trip transport are included for your convenience.

Spend an afternoon being chauffeured by your specialist wine guide exploring the pioneering Central Otago wine region of Gibbston, also aptly named, the “Valley of Vines”. Taste outstanding and elegant Pinot Noir, delicate refined Riesling, rich Pinot Gris and stylish Chardonnay at three of the best cellar doors in the area including a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Take time to enjoy a shared platter lunch accompanied by glass of wine at a vineyard restaurant. Enjoy the enthusiasm and passion from your guide; soak up all the information including the evolving history of Gibbston from just a couple of vines into a full valley producing world-renowned Pinot Noir.

Escape the crowds and indulge in the ultimate private Bay of Islands experience – exclusively for your party of 2–3 in a luxurious Porsche Cayenne. Step off your cruise tender into pure bliss: marvel at the majestic Rainbow Falls, step back into history at New Zealand's oldest buildings, savor premium wines overlooking serene vineyards, and delight in generous handmade chocolate tastings at Makana Factory. With a passionate local guide, flexible pacing, and guaranteed on-time return, this 4.5–5-hour adventure is pure indulgence. Only one party per day – book now for an unforgettable day you'll cherish forever!

Enjoy some of Central Otago's finest Pinot Noir wines from Hawkshead, High Garden, Kinross, Valli and Wild Irishman and learn about the legends who pioneered Pinot Noir production in Central Otago.

Fly to the vines with Altitude Tours on a Helicopter Wine Tour. Begin your day being picked up from your Queenstown accommodation before taking a scenic helicopter flight over Queenstown, soaring above stunning vineyards and mountain ranges before landing on a peak to enjoy a glass of local sparkling wine to kick start your bucket list wine tour. Touch down at your first cellar door where your guide will host you across four tasting experiences, including New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Along the way you’ll taste award winning wines, hear fascinating stories of the region and have the option to enjoy a winery lunch (additional cost). This experience takes wine touring to new heights, pairing fine wine with unforgettable views and people. Taste some of New Zealand’s best wines, on the World's Best Wine Tour (voted 2021). Venues typically include Gibbston Valley, Ayrburn, Kinross and Mt Rosa, though they may vary if a venue is unavailable.

Explore the Marlborough region on a full-day tour that combines a visit to Havelock and the Queen Charlotte Sound with an afternoon wine tour. Motor along the scenic Queen Charlotte Drive and have lunch at a restaurant in Picton, then stop at four wineries for a comprehensive experience of New Zealand's famous Marlborough region wines.

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