Wine Tour and Tastings in Hawkes Bay

Hawkes Bay, one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, offers an enchanting wine tour and tasting experience that’s not to be missed. Explore 3-4 boutique vineyards in a fully restored 1970 Retro Kombi Van, while indulging in expertly curated wine tastings and a gourmet cheese platter featuring local artisanal delights. With personalized service from a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises a convivial atmosphere perfect for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. But what makes this experience truly unique goes beyond the picturesque scenery and delectable offerings – it’s the opportunity to learn about the rich history and passion behind Hawkes Bay‘s renowned winemaking.

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

Key Points

• The tour offers a unique experience exploring 3-4 local vineyards in a fully restored 1970 Retro Kombi Van, providing an immersive journey through the Hawkes Bay wine region.
• Guests can enjoy wine tastings and a gourmet cheese platter, highlighting the exceptional local wines and artisanal produce of the region.
• The knowledgeable and friendly guide, Craig, offers personalized tours with in-depth information about the wineries, enhancing the overall experience.
• Suitable for both wine connoisseurs and casual visitors, the tour promises an unforgettable experience with a 5.0 rating across 33 reviews.
• The tour is conveniently accessible, with pickup from hotels or the Napier i-Site Visitor Centre, and operates daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Tour Overview

The Hawkes Bay Wine Tour and Tastings experience allows visitors to explore four local cellar doors aboard a fully restored 1970 Retro Kombi Van, where they can relax and enjoy wine tastings while learning about the wines and the region from their knowledgeable guide.

With a 5.0 rating across 33 reviews, this tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the stunning Hawkes Bay scenery and discover the area’s renowned wines.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a delightful day out, this tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with the best of what Hawkes Bay has to offer.

Itinerary and Inclusions

Visitors on the Hawkes Bay Wine Tour and Tastings experience can expect to visit 3-4 vineyards, where they’ll enjoy included wine tastings and a gourmet cheese platter with local sides. The tour offers convenient hotel pickup or the option to meet at the Napier i-Site Visitor Information Centre. Operating daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, the tour provides confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Itinerary and Inclusions
Vineyard Visits	3-4
Wine Tastings	Included
Cheese Platter	Gourmet, local sides
Pickup/Meeting Point	Hotel or i-Site Visitor Centre
Tour Hours	9 AM – 6 PM, daily

Transportation and Accessibility

Guests travel in a vintage VW Kombi van during the Hawkes Bay Wine Tour and Tastings experience. The classic Kombi van adds to the unique charm and atmosphere of the tour, with its retro aesthetic complementing the historic Hawkes Bay region and its boutique wineries.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted. Public transportation is available near the tour, and it’s a private tour for your group only.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the intimate nature of the private group experience ensures guests receive personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide. The transportation and accessibility options cater to a range of preferences for an unforgettable wine tasting adventure.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight guests’ praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Craig, who leads the Hawkes Bay Wine Tour and Tastings experience.

Travelers consistently note the personalized nature of the tours, with Craig providing in-depth information about the local vineyards and wines. Many appreciate the flexibility he offers, tailoring the itinerary to the group’s preferences.

Guests also commend the camaraderie and convivial atmosphere fostered among participants as they explore the region’s boutique wineries together.

Plus, visitors are enthusiastic about the carefully curated wine selections, which allow them to discover new and exceptional varietals from the Hawkes Bay area.

Booking Information

The Hawkes Bay Wine Tour and Tastings experience starts from NZ$154.28 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in their booking. Plus, the tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins. This allows customers to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The pricing is competitive and inclusive, covering the wine tastings, gourmet cheese platter, and transportation in the unique Kombi van.

With an experienced and knowledgeable guide, the tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to explore the renowned Hawkes Bay wine region.

Hawkes Bay Wine Region

Nestled along the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the Hawkes Bay wine region is renowned for its diverse and exceptional wine offerings. This sun-drenched area boasts a Mediterranean-like climate, with long, dry summers and moderate winters, creating ideal conditions for growing a variety of grape varietals. From full-bodied Merlots and Cabernet Sauvignons to crisp Chardonnays and aromatic Syrahs, the region’s wineries craft an impressive array of award-winning wines. Explore the region’s rich history and viticulture through a guided wine tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit boutique wineries, sample local delicacies, and learn about the picturesque Hawkes Bay scenery.

Grape Varietals	Climate	Wineries
Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon	Mediterranean-like, long dry summers, moderate winters	Boutique, award-winning
Chardonnay, Syrah	Ideal conditions for growing diverse grapes	Offer tastings and tours

Vintage Kombi Van Experience

One popular way to explore the picturesque Hawkes Bay wine region is through a guided tour aboard a fully restored 1970 Retro Kombi Van. Guests can relax and enjoy wine tastings while learning about the local wines and the stunning scenery from their knowledgeable guide.

The tour visits 3-4 wineries, allowing visitors to experience the unique character of boutique Hawkes Bay cellars. Along the way, guests savor a gourmet cheese platter with local artisanal sides.

Riding in the classic Kombi van adds to the atmosphere, providing a nostalgic and charming way to discover the region. With high ratings and positive reviews, this experience offers an engaging and memorable way to explore the celebrated Hawkes Bay wine country.

Gourmet Cheese Platter

Alongside the wine tastings during the Hawkes Bay tour, guests are treated to a gourmet cheese platter featuring a selection of local artisanal sides.

The platter showcases a delightful array of cheeses, perfectly complemented by:

• Chutneys and preserves crafted by regional producers

• Freshly baked breads and crackers

• An assortment of marinated olives and grilled vegetables

This gourmet offering not only satisfies the palate but also highlights the outstanding local produce the region is renowned for.

The combination of fine wines and artisanal cheese plates creates a truly memorable experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the flavors and culture of Hawkes Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size. It is a private tour, so customers can book it for their own group. The tour accommodates groups of all sizes.

Can I Purchase Wine During the Tour to Take Home?

Yes, guests can purchase wine during the tour to take home. The tour provides an opportunity to explore and sample the local wines, and guests are welcome to purchase their favorites to enjoy later.

What Time Do the Vineyard Visits Typically Start and End?

The vineyard visits typically start around 9:00 AM and end around 6:00 PM, allowing guests to explore 3-4 cellar doors and enjoy wine tastings and a cheese platter during the tour’s operating hours.

Is There an Opportunity to Have Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a gourmet cheese platter with local sides, providing a light lunch option during the experience. Guests can relax and enjoy the wine tastings as part of the comprehensive tour itinerary.

Can I Customize the Vineyard Selections Based on My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the vineyard selections based on your preferences. The tour operator is flexible and accommodating, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and requests within the tour’s overall framework.

Recap

This wine tour in Hawkes Bay offers an enchanting and unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s premier wine region.

Guests can explore boutique vineyards in a vintage Kombi van, indulge in expertly curated wine tastings, and savor a gourmet cheese platter, all while enjoying the stunning scenery and personalized service from a knowledgeable guide.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual visitor, this tour promises a convivial atmosphere that’ll leave you with lasting memories.