Top North Island Holidays - page 4

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.

With innovative brewers, New Zealand’s biggest craft beer festival, and a craft beer bar around every corner, Wellington is an exciting destination for beer lovers. With new breweries always popping up around the city, it can be hard for hop heads to know where to go. On this private tour, check out some of the city’s most successful craft breweries and brewpubs.

Are you ready to experience the FLAVOURS of WAIHEKE ISLAND? - LUNCH INCLUDED Treat yourself with an enchanting journey among the beauty of the jewel island of the Hauraki Gulf. Sip & taste on our small, boutique-style, max 11 people, and make memories to be cherished forever. Take the 10am ferry from Auckland and enjoy a 35min cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to Waiheke Island. Our guide will greet you on arrival. Your experience begins with some spectacular coastal views on your way to the first destination, the Spanish inspired vineyard Casita Miro for a food and wine pairing. Following this indulge in a tasting experience at the Allpress Olive Grove. For lunch, relax at a boutique vineyard where you will be served a delightful meal. To wrap up your day, enjoy a tasting of Craft Beer, or spirits at The Heke Brewery/Distillery. With your tum and taste buds satisfied, we will ensure you are back in time for the return ferry. NOTE: this tour will go ahead with a minimum of 4 people

German/English speaking Leave the crowds behind and experience New Zealand's ever changing scenery This tour will take you along the Matakana Wine trail to the breath-taking East Coast Regional Park, set on a remote Peninsula. We will walk along the Pacific Ocean's stunning coastline and experience some of the wider Auckland region's most beautiful beaches, rolling pastures, native coastal forest and regenerating wetlands (about 2 hours). Experience New Zealand's first open nature sanctuary, integrating conservation, recreation&farming. The pest-free habitat provides a safe home for threatened native wildlife…and who knows we might even spot some dolphins. Included in the tour package is a complimentary wine tasting at one of the award-winning vineyards. You will have the option to dine at the winery for lunch (at your own cost).  We will head to the 'Parry Kauri Park' where we will "meet New Zealand's green giants"! Qualmark Bronze Award-Light Footprint-Safe&Sound-Warm Welcome

Get out of busy Auckland city for the day and experience the best of nearby Waiheke Island. After arriving independently on the ferry from Auckland, you’ll be met and taken to three of Waiheke’s premier wineries. Sample local varieties while enjoying the sea views. Enjoy a two-course lunch with a glass of wine included. This is a private tour so can be customized to suit your needs and interests.

Get out of Auckland for a day on a private tour combining a scenic horseback ride along a bush track with wine tasting and lunch at a restaurant serving local fare. Stroll through a unique sculpture trail framed by native trees and vineyards while savoring New Zealand's luxurious wines. Pickup and drop-off from central Auckland are included, making it easy to experience the region's natural beauty and art in comfort.

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.

Venture into Auckland’s spectacular West Coast, where lush native rainforest, dramatic black-sand beaches, cascading waterfalls, and celebrated wine country create an unforgettable journey. Travel through the wild landscapes of the Waitākere Ranges before arriving at Piha Beach, one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal destinations. Walk along the famous black sands, admire the rugged coastline, and take in impressive views of Lion Rock rising above the beach. Continue through the native forest to visit beautiful waterfalls surrounded by dense greenery and peaceful natural scenery. Stop at the Arataki Visitor Centre to enjoy panoramic views across the Waitākere Ranges and learn about the region’s Māori heritage, landscapes, and native environment. Complete your adventure with a relaxing lunch and wine-tasting experience at one of New Zealand’s oldest wineries, the perfect ending to a day filled with spectacular scenery, nature, culture, and local flavours.

Private romantic exploration through historic Auckland reveals a captivating blend of cultural heritage, architectural elegance, and waterfront beauty. Stroll together through historic districts where heritage landmarks and architectural treasures reflect centuries of transformation. The city's rich cultural legacy offers an inspiring journey through stories that predate the history of the United States. Elegant streets, scenic waterfronts, and significant cultural landmarks reveal the evolution of a city shaped by diverse civilizations and enduring traditions. The combination of cultural depth, architectural beauty, and inspiring stories creates a memorable experience for couples. This premium walking tour is designed for travellers seeking romance, heritage, and authentic cultural discovery in Auckland. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience

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.

The 6-hour tour overviews the region, highlighting art deco, orchids, vineyards, sheep farming, cattle farming, deer farming, and so much more. Spectacular rural drive and views. The history of the area, including the 1931 earthquake, is illustrated with the aid of a photo book.  You will start your day learning what art deco actually is, so you know what to look out for in terms of the unique art deco found here in Napier and Hastings cities. You will visit a lovely "off-track" scenic lookout that looks out over the city of Napier, Hawkes Bay, Cape Kidnappers, and Te Mata Peak. Next, it is off through the area you have just seen along the coast, a hidden valley, and to Te Mata Peak. You will then also visit the largest honey producer in the Southern Hemisphere. You will have time for a short lunch at a cafe in the Hastings area, then back to Napier for a wine tasting before finishing back in Napier by driving through a lovingly kept art deco housing suburb.

** 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.

Get out of Wellington city on a half-day wine and culinary adventure in Martinborough. Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup included. Admire the vineyard-covered landscape of the Wairarapa and enjoy a high-end lunch at Coney Vineyard and Winery accompanied by wine tastings and bottled water. Avoid the hassle of self-driving and indulge in a glass or two of wine on this shared tour.

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.

Our guests enjoy traveling in the comfort and luxury of electric Tesla SUVs. We provide a private tour to you, taking you to scenic locations and vineyards that large tour buses do not. Tours are fully inclusive with no added extra charges. They include morning refreshments, a two-three course gourmet lunch at a vineyard restaurant, including a glass of wine, and all wine-tasting fees. Complimentary Antipodes artesian mineral water, along with HEPA air conditioning, and if you wish your choice of music on Tesla's Spotify system on the way back to Wellington. Please note vineyards visited may vary as a result of their opening hours.

Our guests enjoy traveling in the comfort and luxury of electric Tesla SUVs. We provide a private tour to you, taking you to scenic locations and vineyards that large tour buses do not. Tours are fully inclusive with no added extra charges. They include morning refreshments, lunch, and all wine-tasting fees. Complimentary Antipodes artesian mineral water, along with HEPA air conditioning, and if you wish your choice of music on Tesla's Spotify system on the way back to Wellington. Please note vineyards visited may vary as a result of their opening hours.

Aaron's Kosher tour Is an Historical inspired tour for you to see the best of Wellington. On tour you will experience Colonial and Māori heritage from the great Polynesian migration in the 10th century to the land wars in 1862 and the integration/fusion of early European culture into the Wairarapa region. Hand-picked dining and brasserie style restaurants with set menus that will inspire the foodie in you. Tour 6 hours

Food and wine lovers enjoy a private tour from Wellington to Martinborough's renowned wine region. Taste exquisite wines at multiple venues, including exclusive tastings and a gourmet French-style lunch, while traveling comfortably in a private car or van with hotel pickup. This full-day experience offers a deeper look into local vineyards and culinary delights for a memorable day out of the capital.

Martinborough is just a small town in the rural Wairarapa but it boasts a large number of boutique wineries, known internationally for their pinot noirs in particular. On this full day tour, visit some of the region’s wineries and sample their wines without worrying about who’s going to drive back to the hotel. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes winery tour in the morning: stroll through the peaceful grape vines and learn about how Martinborough winemakers make their celebrated wines.

The tour will be customized to meet your preferences where possible, in particular which types of wine tasting experiences you would like. You will be transported in a top of the line Mercedes V250D minivan with nappa leather seats and room for up to six passengers. Your guide, Geoff, is the owner of the business and has been a Waiheke resident for over 24 years. He is a wine enthusiast with excellent knowledge of wines from Waiheke and other parts of NZ.

Discover the fascinating world of brewing and distilling on this comprehensive 50-minute tour. Guided by an expert, delve into the intricate processes of history, milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, and aging while gaining insights into the similarities and differences between beer and whisky production. Sample both a beer and a whisky, and consider extending your experience with a specialist Tasting Flight for a deeper dive into flavours. This tour offers a maximum of 20 participants, ensuring an intimate setting for learning and enjoyment. - 50-minute guided tour covering brewing and distilling processes - Sample both beer and whisky during the tour - Perfect for groups of up to 20 people - Pre-booking required, with tours available most days at 11:15 am

This half-day tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to enjoy a personalized and authentic experience. First, we will take you to Kumeu Wine Country, one of Auckland's most renowned wine regions, just a short drive from the city center. Here, you can savor award-winning wines while enjoying a delicious lunch at a vibrant local favorite. Next, we will visit Muriwai Beach, where you can take in the stunning views of the Tasman Sea. Our tour offers great value compared to other similar tours and is ideal for those looking for a brief but truly local adventure. Take this opportunity to discover premium wines and beautiful landscapes, and create memorable experiences. *This tour is highly recommended for guests with limited time, such as those arriving by cruise ship. **Please note that the visiting wineries may vary depending on availability at each facility. ***Please let us know in advance if you have any food restrictions.

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.

Explore the exquisite wine region of Hawkes Bay on this Signature Wine Tour, departing from Napier. Enjoy personalized tastings at four top wineries, with a focus on your preferred wine styles and flavors. Indulge in an artisanal cheese platter during the tour, which includes all tasting fees, ensuring a leisurely experience in a maximum group size of six. Travel in comfort in our luxury Mercedes V-Class MPV, with convenient pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Napier, Hastings, or Havelock North. - Tailored wine tastings based on your preferences - Visit four premium wineries with expert guidance - Enjoy an artisanal cheese platter at the second winery - Maximum group size of six for a personalized experience