Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch

Auckland’s perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural wonders makes it a captivating destination. Set out on a full-day adventure that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and the acclaimed wines of the Kumeu region. From the bustling streets of downtown to the picturesque seaside town of Devonport, this tour offers a multifaceted experience. Indulge in delectable wine tastings at award-winning vineyards, savor a gourmet lunch, and witness the captivating natural wonder of the Muriwai Beach gannets. With a carefully curated itinerary and a small-group setting, this tour promises an enriching journey that…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Auckland.

Key Points

• Full-day tour combining Auckland city sightseeing and wine tasting in the Kumeu region.
• Morning tour covers Auckland landmarks like Queen Street, Auckland University, and Auckland Domain.
• Afternoon features lunch and wine tastings at Soljans Estate Winery and other award-winning wineries.
• Opportunity to visit Devonport’s Narrow Neck Beach and Mt. Victoria for scenic views.
• Small-group tour with hotel pickup/drop-off and knowledgeable guide providing commentary.

Tour Overview

This full-day excursion combines the highlights of Auckland’s city sightseeing with an afternoon of wine tasting in the Kumeu wine region.

The morning tour covers the city’s significant landmarks, including Queen Street, Auckland University, and Auckland Domain, as well as scenic stops like Devonport’s Narrow Neck Beach and Mt. Victoria lookout.

In the afternoon, guests enjoy lunch and a glass of wine at Soljans Estate Winery, followed by tastings at two other award-winning wineries in the Kumeu region.

The small-group tour, limited to 18 participants, provides personalized attention throughout the day.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this an effortless way to experience the best of Auckland’s city and wine country.

Itinerary Highlights

In the Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country excursion, the morning city tour covers several of Auckland’s significant landmarks, including the bustling Queen Street, the esteemed Auckland University, the picturesque Auckland Domain, and the charming Ponsonby neighborhood.

The tour then ventures to the seaside suburb of Devonport, where visitors can stroll along the Narrow Neck Beach and take in the scenic views from the top of Mount Victoria.

The afternoon highlights the Kumeu wine region, where participants enjoy a delicious lunch at the Soljans Estate Winery paired with a glass of wine.

They also have the opportunity to go bird-watching at the Muriwai Beach to observe the impressive gannet colony (during the August to April season).

Morning City Tour

The morning city tour begins with a visit to Auckland’s bustling Queen Street, the central business district known for its vibrant shops, restaurants, and public spaces.

From there, the tour moves on to the Auckland University campus, where participants can admire the institution’s impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.

Next, the group explores the beautiful Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, which features stunning gardens, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and panoramic views of the harbor.

The final stop in the morning is the charming suburb of Ponsonby, renowned for its trendy boutiques, cafes, and Victorian-era homes.

Throughout the city tour, the guide provides informative commentary, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for Auckland’s cultural and historical significance.

Devonport Visit

After the morning tour of central Auckland, the group then travels to the picturesque seaside suburb of Devonport. Here, they stroll along Narrow Neck Beach, taking in the stunning views of the Waitematā Harbour and the Auckland city skyline in the distance.

The guide then leads them up to the summit of Mt. Victoria, where they can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.

The visit to Devonport offers several highlights:

• Scenic views of the North Shore’s coastline and Auckland’s iconic landmarks

• Opportunity to explore the charming seaside village with its boutiques and cafes

• Chance to learn about the area’s history and its significance as a former military base

• Easy access to the summit of Mt. Victoria for sweeping panoramas of the region

Afternoon Wine Tastings

Following the morning’s exploration of Auckland, the tour then transitions to the Kumeu wine region for an afternoon of wine tastings at three acclaimed local wineries.

First, the group visits Soljans Estate Winery, where they’ll enjoy a glass of wine along with a delicious lunch.

Next, they’ll head to Matua Valley Wines to sample their award-winning varietals.

The final stop is West Brook Winery, known for its picturesque setting and exceptional blends.

Throughout the afternoon, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the region’s viticulture and helps guests discover new favorites.

With stunning scenery and exceptional wines, this portion of the tour offers a true taste of New Zealand’s renowned wine country.

Lunch at Soljans Estate

At Soljans Estate Winery, guests enjoy a delightful lunch accompanied by a glass of the winery’s acclaimed vintages. The winery’s restaurant offers a selection of gourmet dishes crafted with locally-sourced ingredients, perfectly complementing the region’s renowned wines.

Guests can expect:

• A seasonal menu featuring fresh, seasonal produce

• Expertly-paired wine recommendations from knowledgeable staff

• A relaxed, picturesque setting overlooking the vineyard

• The opportunity to savor the flavors of the Kumeu wine region

This lunch stop provides a chance to refuel and indulge in the best of Auckland’s wine country, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying experience for all participants on the tour.

Muriwai Beach Gannets

On the Auckland City Tour, visitors have the chance to witness the majestic seabird colony at Muriwai Beach during the peak season from August to April.

Millions of gannets, with their striking black-and-white plumage and impressive wingspans, flock to the dramatic black-sand beach to nest and raise their young.

Guests can observe the gannets soaring gracefully above the crashing waves, diving headfirst into the water to catch fish, and tending to their chicks in the nesting areas.

This unique wildlife experience is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the natural wonders of New Zealand’s coastal ecosystems.

It’s a truly unforgettable sight that complements the day’s exploration of Auckland’s city landmarks and wine country.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour departs from centrally located Auckland hotels between 8:30-9:00 AM, providing convenient pickup options for participants.

Alternatively, travelers can meet the group at the SkyCity Auckland building, located at the corner of Victoria and Federal Street.

The tour then returns to the original departure point around 5:30 PM, completing the full-day excursion through Auckland and the Kumeu wine region.

The key meeting and pickup details include:

• Departure from Auckland hotels between 8:30-9:00 AM

• Option to meet at SkyCity Auckland building

• Return to original departure point around 5:30 PM

• Centralized locations for easy access

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

The tour details do not specify if gratuity is included in the tour price. Participants should check with the tour operator or review booking details to determine if gratuity needs to be paid separately during the tour.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour provides transportation by small coach or minivan for the full-day excursion. Pickup and drop-off at centrally located Auckland hotels or an alternative meeting point are included for the convenience of participants.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch?

Yes, the tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian or gluten-free options for the lunch at Soljans Estate Winery. Participants simply need to inform the operator of their dietary needs when booking the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?

The tour company occasionally offers discounts or promotions, such as early bird pricing or package deals. Customers should check the website or contact the company directly to inquire about any current offers or sales.

Can I Bring My Own Wine Home From the Tastings?

Yes, you can bring home any wines you purchase during the tastings. The tour allows participants to purchase and transport bottles of wine from the wineries visited during the afternoon wine tasting portion of the excursion.

Recap

This full-day tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the best of Auckland.

Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, journey to the scenic Devonport, and indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience in the renowned Kumeu wine region.

With a delicious lunch at Soljans Estate Winery, this tour provides an enriching blend of Auckland’s culture, history, and renowned viticulture.