Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour

The Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour offers an enriching experience that combines aviation history with the region’s renowned wine offerings. Participants can explore the impressive collection of World War I and World War II aircraft at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center before visiting two acclaimed local wineries in the Wairau Valley for tastings of award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. Guided by a knowledgeable local, this small-group tour promises a personalized and unforgettable day filled with culture, flavor, and captivating stories that will leave you eager to uncover more.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In Blenheim.

Key Points

• This full-day tour combines visits to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and two wineries in the Wairau Valley, providing a unique aviation and wine-tasting experience.

• The tour includes hotel transfers, wine tastings, chocolate sampling, and the services of a knowledgeable local guide to enhance the overall experience.

• The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre boasts an impressive collection of WWI and WWII aircraft, allowing visitors to explore restored fighter planes and interactive exhibitions.

• The tour visits two acclaimed wineries in the Marlborough region, renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals, offering tastings and insights into the winemaking process.

• The tour is suitable for ages 7 and above, with accessibility options available, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Tour Overview

The Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore New Zealand’s rich aviation history and indulge in the region’s renowned wine offerings.

The small-group tour, limited to just eight people, provides a personalized experience as participants visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, taste wines at two Wairau Valley wineries, and sample chocolate at a boutique chocolatier.

Included in the tour are hotel transfers, wine tastings, bottled water, and a knowledgeable local guide to enhance the experience.

With a minimum age of 7 years and accessibility options, this full-day tour caters to a range of travelers seeking an immersive and memorable journey through Blenheim’s cultural and culinary highlights.

Tour Details

This full-day tour starts at 10:00 AM and caters to travelers aged 7 years and above, with a minimum drinking age of 18 years.

Wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and service animals are accommodated, and infant seats are available for those in need.

Tour groups are kept small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

The duration of the tour is a full day, allowing ample time to explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and indulge in wine tastings at two Wairau Valley wineries.

Plus, visitors can enjoy chocolate sampling at a boutique chocolatier, making this tour a well-rounded, immersive experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes wine tasting, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a local guide to lead the experience.

However, it excludes lunch, which is at the travelers’ own expense, as well as any additional food and drinks not specified in the inclusions.

The tour does include the following:

1. Wine tasting at two Wairau Valley wineries, allowing guests to sample the region’s renowned varietals.

2. Chocolate sampling at a boutique chocolatier, providing a sweet treat alongside the wine tasting.

3. Local guide services, ensuring a personalized and informative experience throughout the tour.

Pickup Information

Pickup for the tour is available from designated accommodation, including hotels, residential homes, Airbnbs, or homestays. The meeting point will be determined at the time of booking, and customers are advised to provide their pickup location information. This ensures a smooth and efficient start to the full-day adventure.

The friendly and knowledgeable guide will arrive promptly to collect participants and transport them to the first stop of the tour – the renowned Omaka Aviation Heritage Center.

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque Wairau Valley before embarking on an immersive exploration of New Zealand’s rich aviation history.

Customer Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 5.

Visitors have particularly praised the tour’s friendly and informative guide, Pamela, who’s been noted for her expertise and engaging dialogue on New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

The tour’s highlight, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center, has also received high marks for its excellent collection and well-planned exhibits.

While some travelers wished they could have seen more of the museum and a canceled airshow, the overall consensus is that this tour offers an exceptional value and a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

1. Friendly and informative guide (Pamela)

2. Excellent collection at Omaka Aviation Heritage Center

3. Well-planned exhibits and engaging dialogue on New Zealand’s flora, fauna, and customs

Booking Information

Pricing for the Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour starts from $136.54, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

Travelers can also take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option when booking this tour. This flexible booking policy allows visitors to secure their spot without having to pay the full amount upfront.

The tour is priced competitively, considering the range of activities included, such as wine tasting, chocolate sampling, and the guided tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Center

What makes the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center a highlight of this full-day tour? The center boasts an impressive collection of World War I and World War II aircraft, as well as interactive exhibitions that bring the history of New Zealand’s aviation to life.

Visitors can explore:

1. The Knights of the Sky exhibition, which showcases meticulously restored fighter planes and authentic sets designed by the Oscar-winning prop maker Sir Peter Jackson.

2. The World War II-themed Dangerous Skies exhibition, which immerses guests in the strategic and technological advancements of the era.

3. The opportunity to walk through historic aircraft and gain a deeper understanding of their role in shaping New Zealand’s aviation heritage.

Wairau Valley Wineries

The tour also includes visits to two acclaimed wineries in the renowned Wairau Valley, where guests can indulge in tastings of the region’s renowned Sauvignon Blanc and other exceptional varietals.

Nestled in the heart of Marlborough, the Wairau Valley is renowned for its world-class wines, offering visitors a chance to sample the best the region has to offer.

From crisp, aromatic whites to bold, full-bodied reds, the wines produced here showcase the unique terroir and meticulous winemaking practices of the local vineyards.

During the tasting, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and discover the flavors that make Marlborough wines so exceptional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Aircraft Are Displayed at the Aviation Center?

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Center displays a diverse collection of historic aircraft, including World War I and World War II planes. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the evolution of aviation and New Zealand’s role in aerial combat.

Do the Wine Tastings Include Food Pairings?

The wine tastings on this tour include food pairings to complement the wine selections. This allows visitors to fully experience the flavors and aromas of the local wines in Wairau Valley.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Winery?

According to the tour details, visitors spend about 1 hour at each of the two Wairau Valley wineries included in the tour. This allows time for wine tasting and exploration of the wineries’ facilities and offerings.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed at the Museum?

Photography and videography are generally allowed at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center. However, visitors should check with staff for any restrictions or guidelines on taking photos and videos within the museum exhibits.

Can Visitors Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Locations?

Visitors can typically purchase souvenirs at tour locations like museums and wineries. These may include merchandise, artwork, food items, and other memorabilia related to the specific attraction or region. Availability and selection can vary by site.

Recap

The Full-Day Omaka Aviation Heritage Center and Wine Tasting Tour provides an immersive experience blending aviation history and world-class wine.

Visitors explore the impressive Omaka collection, then savor renowned Sauvignon Blanc at local wineries.

With a knowledgeable guide and small-group format, the tour offers a personalized, cultural experience that’s not to be missed.