Top South Island Spring Break in 2026

Perfect for wine buffs, get ready to explore the stunning Central Otago wine region of Bannockburn on this self-guided eBike tour from the Kiwi Journeys depot in Cromwell. Pedal about 20-30km along the beautiful trail bound for Felton Road and Bannockburn. Be sure to check out renowned wineries like Mt. Difficulty, Te Kano & Dicey. Check in at Carrick Cellar Door & Garden for a private Cabana Wine & Dine Retreat overlooking Bannockburn Inlet where you'll have wine tastings and a sumptuous lunch. There is time before and after Carrick for cellar door visits along Felton Road - heart of Bannockburn wine country but be sure to check opening times direct with your favourite wineries and book tasting slots where necessary. - Self-guided day tour by eBike - Perfect for those keen to learn more about this renowned wine-making region - Be treated to an exclusive Wine & Dine Cabana experience at Carrick Cellar Door & Garden

The Self-Guided Full Day Biking Wine Tour caters to those who want to go at it alone for the day – ideal for the independent traveler, groups or families with children as they are able to set their own day plan based on the needs of the family. Everything is organised for you! Pick up and drop off from the Picton I-site, set you up with bikes, helmets, maps, the recommendations and an option to book you in for lunch at a winery restaurant. We also offer wine collection from the cellar doors through out day so you don’t have to carry it on the bike and emergency on call pick up if required. Discover the beauty of Marlborough your way. Rent a bike from us and enjoy your own self-guided wine tour. We’ll set you up with quality equipment and send you on your way with all the recommendations, tips and hints you need to craft your own unforgettable Marlborough wine adventure.

Our Queenstown More Than A Wine Tour is not so much about swirling, sniffing and chatting about gooseberries, oak and tannins. It’s more an opportunity to soak up some extraordinary scenery and discover the amazing flavours of Central Otago. We love to showcase our wine and local cheese/food. If the Mountain is more for you, think champagne in the snow! Afterwards enjoy the Cardrona Distillery and Hotel for some mulled Wine and marshmallows. This tour is for anyone wanting some private time, romantic and special or thrill seeking time. Wine, whiskey, beer, gin, food, mountain biking, snowboarding/skiing, hiking. This is your day so the itinerary is set precisely to blow away your expectations. Others say "this was hands down one of the best days of our lives" "We cant wait to come back and do this again with friends" "Every moment was spectacular" "We loved every second" "We loved our guide, she looked after all our needs and requirements, she made the day so special" "We will be back"

Explore the stunning vineyards around Wanaka and indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience. Visit three exceptional vineyards and savor up to 13 hand-crafted wines, including world-renowned varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. One vineyard features a mouthwatering 3-course barrel-cooked banquet paired with select wines, enhancing your culinary journey. This intimate tour, limited to just eight guests, ensures personalised attention while you soak in the breathtaking scenery and world-class hospitality of the region. - Taste 13 different hand-crafted wines from local vineyards - Enjoy a delicious 3-course barrel-cooked banquet at one vineyard - Limited to small groups of maximum 8 guests for an intimate experience - Daily tours lasting 3.5 hours, with pick-up at 1:30 PM from your accommodation

A Premium Cruise Experience Step aboard Pacific Jemm, the southernmost superyacht on a lake, and experience Lake Wakatipu on an intimate luxury sightseeing cruise unlike any other. Be welcomed with genuine New Zealand hospitality, a complimentary glass of mulled wine (or your preferred beverage) and a local grazing board as you relax in refined comfort. Cruise past iconic locations such as: -The Remarkables -Cecil Peak -Walter Peak -Lord of the rings locations -Bobs Cove and other stunning bays. Our experienced captain selects the best route for the day's conditions, ensuring the smoothest ride and spectacular views. With strictly limited guest numbers, you'll enjoy a spacious, uncrowded atmosphere with plenty of room to move about the yacht, making it perfect for photography, uninterrupted panoramic views and complete relaxation. If you are celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring Queenstown, Pacific Jemm delivers an unforgettable alpine experience on the water.

Join us on our Taste of Gibbston Tour - designed to see and taste multiple subregions of Central Otago. Our Ultimate Experience offers an unparalleled journey through the most prestigious and boutique vineyards of Central Otago, with every detail curated to provide an unforgettable experience. From being chauffeured in a luxury vehicle to private tastings and conversations with winemakers or owners, this tour is your gateway to the exquisite world of wine in the South Island. Explore the splendour of Gibbston through our Taste of Gibbston Tour. Join us on a journey to discover the area where the pioneers introduced Central Otago Pinot Noir to the world. Explore three boutique vineyards, venture off the beaten path, and experience the local favourites. This tour offers you the chance to sample award-winning wines from this cool climate region near Queenstown and enjoy the breathtaking views of the dramatic landscape in a short half-day tour.

Experience an indulgent and diverse full-day exclusive tour showcasing the very best of the local sights, enjoying fresh and unique cuisine and tasting a selection of fine wines from the region. Be greeted by your specialist Wine Guide and venture into the heart of Central Otago to taste fine wines at three premium vineyards over three contrasting wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Cromwell and the Bannockburn basin. Take a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and enjoy a tasting within the Cave, in the exclusive Library Room*. Stop at a unique lunch venue, experiencing a gourmet lunch consisting of five dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and matching with wines – just divine! Take a stroll through Old Cromwell or visit the must-see historical Arrowtown. Your passionate senior guide will impart all there is to know about the local area, the pioneering history and of course everything about Central Otago wines.

Embark on an extraordinary wine journey guided by our talented Wine Advisor. They will lead you through a tasting experience with the exquisitely crafted, award-winning wines from Valli.

Drive Gibbston Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most travellers set off from Queenstown, Arrowtown or Cromwell — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 59 stories cover 17 cellar doors strung along the Kawarau Gorge: as you pass Gibbston Valley Wines you'll hear how the first vines went in during 1981, when viticulturists said Pinot Noir could not ripen this far south — and how every vine in the Central Otago basin beyond the gorge traces back to that decision. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops in the gorge. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute scenic cruise on the 111 year old, coal fired vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw from Queenstown waterfront to Walter Peak High Country Farm (without going ashore) and return. After disembarking the TSS Earnslaw, you have a bit of spare time before making your way to meet us at our central pick-up location to join a fun-filled afternoon of stunning sights and magnificent wines. Spend the afternoon visiting three selected vineyards including a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave at Gibbston Valley winery. Sample an array of fine wines and varietals on offer and enjoy a shared cheeseboard which will accompany one of the wine tastings. ***Please note: The TSS Earnslaw will be out of operation for scheduled annual maintenance from May 18th to June 26th. This cruise and wine tour will not be available during this time. Our Classic Wine Tour will continue to operate as normal.***

This is more than just a bike ride, it’s a crafted journey through Central Otago’s vineyard country. Cruise lakeside trails, roll through the gold-rush charm of Cromwell, and wind your way into the Bannockburn Inlet — a region world-famous for Pinot Noir and dramatic landscapes. What sets this experience apart is the seamless service from the Central Cycle Trail Co. team, from personalised bike fittings, scenic shuttles and insider tips. Ride a premium e-bike, enjoy a gentle itinerary, and finish with a glass in hand at the beautiful Carrick Winery, with the option to upgrade to a private cabana and shared platter. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a group outing, or a solo wine-lovers’ ride, we make it easy to relax, explore, and taste the best of the region; effortlessly, safely, and in style.

Enjoy a mixture of scenic cruising and action as you blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Shotover and Kawarau Rivers with 45km of unforgettable thrills, 360 degree spins and exhilaration in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Enjoy tastings at four premium vineyards over three contrasting wine sub-regions; Gibbston and the lesser-known Cromwell and Bannockburn basin. Stop in for lunch at a vineyard restaurant and take a stroll around the stunning grounds, viewing the barrel hall and wine-making facilities if this is of interest. Savour a delightful platter-style lunch made with locally sourced produce and paired with a flight of wines. Sit back and relax in our luxury Mercedes-Benz minivans, taking in the sights while our specialist Wine Guide provides a full commentary on the wine, sights and early history, ensuring an entertaining drive with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Explore the highlights of Christchurch on this enriching day tour. Start with a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens and along the scenic Avon River, then immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Riverside Market, where local produce, artisanal treats, and coffee culture await. Visit Sumner Beach, a picturesque seaside escape, and enjoy sweeping panoramas from the Lyttelton Port lookout, capturing the harbour and surrounding hills. Travel north to the renowned Waipara Valley, where you will visit two boutique wineries to taste premium Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay while learning about the region’s winemaking traditions. Perfectly combining urban charm, coastal beauty, and the flavours of New Zealand wine country, this tour offers a well-rounded and memorable experience for first-time visitors & wine enthusiasts alike. This tour offers a flexible itinerary, timings & places can be modified on special requests, ensuring a personalized & memorable experience.

The Vineyards Nobody Else Can Show You The great wine regions of the world have two kinds of producers — those who sell to tourists and those who sell to collectors. We take you to the second kind. Every vineyard on this tour has been personally handpicked by Aaron. They produce between 800 and 50,000 bottles per year. They do not advertise. Buses cannot reach them. And they do not open their cellar doors to just anyone. Because you are with us, they will open them for you. Choose your own journey through 4 extraordinary venues between Cromwell and the Gibbston Valley. At each one, you will be welcomed not as a tourist but as a serious buyer — by the winemaker, the owner, or a trained sommelier who knows every vine in the vineyard. and because great wine deserves to be enjoyed at home as much as on tour, every single venue can arrange international delivery directly to your door. Arrive home to find the best of Central Otago waiting in your hallway.

Explore the picturesque Marlborough wine region in a unique way with a horse-drawn carriage tour. This half-day experience takes you through the charming town of Renwick, where you will visit two family-owned wineries, tasting authentic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and more. Enjoy a delectable platter for lunch as you soak in the tranquil surroundings and rich wine heritage. Led by Emma and her Clydesdale, Duchess, this leisurely pace allows you to savor every moment and connection with the land. - Unique horse-drawn carriage tour through Marlborough vineyards - Visit 2 wineries with intimate cellar door experiences - Enjoy a delicious lunch platter during the tour - Perfect for wine lovers seeking a leisurely and authentic experience

This Twilight Wine and Stars Tour is an evening celebrating Central Otago wine, seasonal cuisine and stunning starry night skies. Start the evening at the luxurious Gibbston Valley Lodge and Spa where you’ll learn about wine region, taste a duo of wines and enjoy an à la carte main course. Journey on to Waitiri Creek cellar door for more insights into the region’s winemaking heritage. Take part in a wine tasting complimented with a dessert platter. As darkness falls, the experience heads to Gibbston Dark Sky Park, where telescopes and lasers reveal the stars of the southern sky with a professional photo under the stars. Weather conditions can sometimes prevent the stargazing portion of the evening from proceeding. If this occurs, we’ll replace it with another memorable final destination. Instead, finish the evening at one of Arrowtown’s cocktail venues, where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails & soak up the atmosphere.

Discover Christchurch after dark on a relaxed and social pub tour with a local guide. Visit a selection of local pubs and bars, experience the friendly atmosphere of Christchurch nightlife, and enjoy an evening away from the usual sightseeing tours. Each stop offers a chance to unwind, enjoy a drink, meet fellow travelers and experience the city like a local. With a local guide leading the way, you can simply relax and enjoy the night without worrying about where to go next. Venues may vary depending on availability, events and the atmosphere on the night.

Take to the skies for a spectacular scenic flight over the dramatic Southern Alps and Gibbston wine region, gaining a unique perspective of New Zealand’s southernmost vineyards. Enjoy an alpine landing on The Remarkables with time for photos and breathtaking views. On landing, meet your expert guide and begin a luxury wine tour through Central Otago. Indulge in premium tastings at carefully selected vineyards and savour a delicious à la carte lunch featuring regional cuisine in Bannockburn or Cromwell. With hotel pick-up and drop-off included, plus flexible timing and the option to customise your itinerary, this experience blends adventure, luxury, and world-class wine for an unforgettable day.

Drive Marlborough yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most people begin in Blenheim or straight off the Picton ferry, though you can start anywhere and the GPS will pick you up — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 85 narrated stories cover 48 cellar doors and the valleys between them: as you cross the Wairau plain you'll hear how this was sheep country until 1973, when Montana Wines pushed seventy-five thousand vine cuttings into stony ground every expert had written off as too cold, too windy and too far south for serious wine. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.

Embark on a luxurious escapade through the enchanting landscapes of the Waipara Valley Wine Region and the serene haven of Hanmer Springs with our exclusive Christchurch Luxury Tour. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to providing an unparalleled experience of elegance, indulgence, and discovery. Travel in style and sophistication aboard one of our professionally chauffeured European vehicles, where every moment is meticulously crafted for your enjoyment. From sampling exquisite wines amidst the vineyards of Waipara Valley to indulging in the rejuvenating thermal pools of Hanmer Springs, our tour promises to exceed your expectations. Savor delectable cuisine, immerse yourself in local culture, and unwind in luxurious surroundings as you explore the hidden treasures of New Zealand's South Island. With our Christchurch Luxury Tour, every journey becomes an unforgettable adventure in luxury and relaxation.

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.

Discover Central Otago on a fully private wine journey created for just 2–4 guests. Go beyond the cellar door at Peregrine Wines with a privately hosted Vine to Glass experience. Walk amongst the vines, step inside the winery and discover the journey from vineyard to bottle before tasting Peregrine’s Central Otago wines. Travel through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge into Bannockburn to Te Kano Estate, known for its striking architecture, beautiful setting and premium wines. Continue to Carrick Winery or Mt Difficulty for wine, sweeping Bannockburn views and a relaxed winery lunch (own expense). Return towards Queenstown for Amisfield, overlooking Lake Hayes, where striking architecture, celebrated wines and an exceptional setting bring the journey to a close. With your own local New Zealand wine guide, private Mercedes transport and no other guests, everything is taken care of. Two wine regions. Exceptional wineries. Central Otago wine country, just for you.