New Zealand Wine Vacations: Unique Food and Wine

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive early in the morning to New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland, then hop on a short flight to Hawke’s Bay and enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. At the famous start (or end) to the New Zealand Wine Trail, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sunshine and delicious red and white wines of this vineyard region. Your accommodations are in the heart of Napier, the largest town in Hawke’s Bay, and home to several good restaurants and art deco architecture.
The Crown Hotel

Day 2
A small group tour through the vineyards and food-makers of Hawke’s Bay takes you to premium sites, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy Kiwi hospitality. You’ll visit 5 to 6 wineries and enjoy a winemaking tour. Indulge in the delicious flavors of Napier with a 2-course lunch and gourmet “Taste of Hawke’s Bay” platter featuring local artisan foods.
The Crown Hotel

Day 3
Your morning is at leisure to explore the New Zealand Wine Centre. This afternoon, embark on a 2-hour walking tour of this art deco city and learn about its history. End the tour at the Art Deco Centre for a complimentary cuppa and an optional 20-minute film.
The Crown Hotel

Day 4
Today, you fly off to Wellington, the arts and culture capital of the North Island. The dining and artistic hub of New Zealand, Wellington is filled with cafés, museums, and art; theatre performances and galleries abound. It is truly the “Coolest Little Capital in the World.” Surrounded almost entirely by beaches and bays, the hills of Wellington leave almost every location with a breathless view of the Cook Strait and the islands beyond. Your accommodations are in the city’s best hotel, where you have a suite in the city center, within walking distance of all the major sites. Special bonuses for booking with Down Under Endeavours include a complimentary bottle of local wine and 2 complimentary tickets to the Carter Observatory.
The Bolton

Day 5
Rise early today and ride the wine tour train through rolling green hills to Martinborough, the smallest destination on your list but not the smallest in reputation. Visit the award-winning Martinborough wine region on this all-inclusive wine tour and treat your taste buds. Visit boutique vineyards, enjoy a light 3-course lunch with expertly paired wines, and learn how this sleepy, rural town blossomed into an internationally renowned wine region. Ride the train back to Wellington for the evening.
The Bolton

Day 6 – 7
Travel across the sea to the South Island. Take the Interislander ferry, the most beautiful way to travel between the North and South Islands of New Zealand. After a quick transfer to Queen Charlotte Sound, you land at the Bay of Many Coves for 2 nights of special meals and New Zealand wine. Receive a bottle of local Marlborough wine on arrival and enjoy a delightful 3-course meal. The next day is at your leisure to relax in spacious hillside apartments with uninterrupted views from the private balconies to the blue waters and native bush-clad hills. Or, make a short transfer to Blenheim for a taste of famous Marlborough wines and deliciously fresh greenshell mussels.
Bay of Many Coves

Day 8
A water taxi and short flight bring you to Queenstown today. Check into your luxury boutique hotel within brief walking distance of downtown Queenstown, and make sure to arrive in time for their complimentary pre-dinner drinks and hors d’oeuvres! Spend the evening soaking up gorgeous views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range, and the parklands surrounding your luxury hideaway.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Day 9
Enjoy a morning among the boutique vineyards and spectacular scenery of Central Otago. Located within picturesque valleys between dramatic gorges and only a short drive from Queenstown, this New Zealand wine region has not only incredible wines but history and adventure, as well. Stop at 4 or more wineries, enjoy a wonderful platter-style lunch, and visit the historic Old Cromwell Town. You may even stop at the Kawarau Bridge, where you can witness the original AJ Hackett Bungee Jump in full swing.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Day 10
Today is yours to explore Queenstown at your leisure. This is the adventure capital of New Zealand, so there’s no shortage of things to do! You can go bungee jumping (the activity was invented here), jet boating, skydiving, hang gliding, mountain biking, and much more.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel

Day 11
A private transfer brings you to Queenstown airport for the flight home. A few more cooking tricks up your sleeve and a few pounds heavier, you’ll head home satisfied and satiated… until it’s time to explore Australia’s food and wine regions!