Classic New Zealand Wine Trail

An indulgent self drive journey through three of New Zealands major wine growing regions.

Itinerary Overview

Recommended Days:

10 days / 9 Nights

Distance:

380 kms

Best time of year:

Anytime

Itinerary Highlights

The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail serves up unforgettable wine and food experiences. Encompassing Hawkes Bay, Wairarapa, Wellington and Marlborough bring you the most memborable tastings.

Hawkes Bay Region
3 hours 15 mins
228 kms

Commence your journey in the Hawkes Bay city of Napier for 2 nights stay. Napier has the famous Art Deco reputation as a result of the almost total rebuilding of the city in this style following the 1931 earthquake.

Recommended Activities

  • Tour to Cape Kidnappers
  • Art Deco guided Tour
  • Odyessey Wine Tours
  • The Silky Oak Chocolate Company
Napier - Martinborough
3 hours 15 mins
228 kms

Take a leisurely drive along State Highway 2 following the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail signs, taking in the relaxed country atmosphere and warm hospitality.

Visit the i-Site Visitor Centre to collect your map of the region. Enjoy your stay for 2 nights.

Recommended Activities

  • Seal Colony and lighthouse at Cape Palliser
  • Visit the Boutique Vineyards
  • A cycle to the Vineyards
  • Brackenridge Spa
  • The Rapaki Walk
  • Palliser Vineyard Walk
Martinborough - Wellington
1 hour 30 mins
99 kms

Nestled between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills, Wellington offers a chic city experience in a stunning natural setting. One day isnt enough so thats why you will stay here in the Capital for 2 nights.

Recommended Activities

  • Te Papa Museum
  • Zest Food & Wine Tour
  • Flat Earth New Zealand Experienc
  • Wellington Cable Car & Botanic Gardens
Wellington - Picton
3 hours 20 mins

Enjoy a cruise across Cook Strait through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds to Picton where you will stay over night.

Recommended Activities

  • Marlborough Wine Tour
  • Early Bird Eco Cruise
Picton - Blenheim
25 mins
29 kms

Located at the north-easy corner of the South Island is Marlborough, a region with breathtaking beauty and renowned for its wines and delicious foods.

Blessed with a year round sunny climate Marlborough is the perfect place to spend your couple of days here. If you enjoy kayaking, scenic boat tours, visits to formal gardens or just hiking through Native Bush well this region has plenty to keep you smiling.

This region is the largest wine growing in New Zealand, a great selection of bountiful seafood in the surrounding waters is the perfect compliment to its world famous Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy a feast of New Zealand King Salmon or Greenshell Mussells over looking the water, or dine alfresco at a restuarant amongst the vines.

Recommended Activities

  • Full day Heart of Marlborough Tour
  • Queen Charlotte Walk or Cruise
  • Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
  • Kayaking