Scenic Sips: The Wines and Wonders of New Zealand

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Departure Date

December 22, 2026

Overview

  • Stroll Auckland’s lively waterfront before sailing to Waiheke Island for vineyard tastings and coastal views.
  • Step into Middle earth at Hobbiton, then unwind in Rotorua’s geothermal pools and Māori cultural heart.
  • Savor Hawke’s Bay wines and art deco charm in Napier, framed by ocean vistas and elegant streets.
  • Taste Marlborough’s celebrated Sauvignon Blancs and cruise the Sounds, where forested hills meet tranquil waters.
  • Journey through Aoraki / Mount Cook to Queenstown, exploring alpine wineries and cruising majestic Milford Sound.

 

Highlights

Trip Includes

  • Private arrival and departure airport transfers
  • 2 nights first-class accommodation in Auckland
  • 2 nights first-class accommodation in Rotorua
  • 2 nights first-class accommodation in Napier
  • 1 night first-class accommodation in Wellington
  • 2 nights first-class accommodation in Blenheim
  • 2 nights first-class accommodation in Christchurch
  • 4 nights first-class accommodation in Queenstown
  • Shared Waiheke Island Vineyard Tour
  • Small group Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton excursion (max 21 guests)
  • Admission to the Polynesian Spa including a Geothermal Mud Wrap
  • Private Havelock North and Cape Coast Wineries Guided Cycle Tour
  • Small group Marlborough Icons Tour (max 10 guests)
  • Small group Christchurch City and Wine tour (max 8 guests)
  • Small group Central Otago Wine tour (max 12 guests)
  • Small Group Milford Sound tour (max 16 guests)
  • 4 lunches

 

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

 

Auckland Airport to Auckland - City Centre

 

Your Accommodation

MSocial Hotel Auckland

Functionally chic, this boutique hotel features 190 rooms and suites and overlooks the vibrant Princess Wharf which is home to a stunning array of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences. Choose to stay connected both online and offline. Enjoy free Wi-Fi during your stay, relieve the stresses of the day at the 24-hour gym or treat yourself to some of the best cuisine from around the world at M Social Restaurant. Alternatively, catch up with friends - both old and new - over a drink at M Social Bar while watching the ships come in. Located near Auckland's main strip, the hub of the city centre with its abundance of designer fashions, lively nightlife, shows, theatre and live music, this vibrant hotel exudes youthful energy. Don't miss a visit to the Sky Tower for the best views in town or wander through the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, with its world-class collections and exhibitions from New Zealand and around the world.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

MSocial Hotel Auckland

Waiheke Island boasts 92 km's of pristine beaches, stunning coastal headlands, wineries, olive groves and seaside villages and is approximately a 40-minute cruise from Downtown Auckland. One of New Zealand's most popular destinations, Waiheke Island has been rated as one of the top island escapes in the world. This best-selling culinary experience visits four iconic vineyards and artisanal producers. Highlights include: Two-course lunch and glass of wine at Batch Winery, Award-winning wine at Mudbrick Vineyard, Olive oil tasting at Allpress Olive Groves and Beer tasting at The Heke Kitchen Brewery & Distillery (vineyards may change without notice)

This trip from Auckland to Rotorua includes the Hobbiton movie set tour. Departing from Auckland this is a wonderful way to get to Rotorua and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton movie set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. Travel south from Auckland over the Bombay Hills to the rich farmland of the Waikato region. Your journey takes you through undulating green hills reminding you that you are approaching the Shire. Your Bush and Beach guide will give you commentary on the way down with insights about the areas you are traveling through and insights to the backgrounds to the movies. On arrival at Shire's Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. This location is the largest "green set" in the world and the only part of the set remaining in New Zealand. You see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge and the party tree. At this stunning location you can take a photo at the gate to Bilbo's house, "Bag End", looking out over the whole set to the hills in the distance. Before your feast in the Party Marquee (which is included in the price) you cross the bridge by the mill to go into the Green Dragon Inn where you can enjoy a complimentary ale, cider or ginger beer. You will also get to walk through a fully themed Hobbit Hole interior. At the end of your Hobbiton movie set tour you will travel on to Rotorua (drop off at selected inner city Rotorua accommodation included).

 

Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton

 

Your Accommodation

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Next to mystical Lake Rotorua and just a short stroll from the city centre, Millennium Hotel Rotorua is an eco-friendly destination offering comfort and convenience in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Perfect for leisure and business travellers, our hotel is within walking distance of Polynesian Spa, Rotorua’s vibrant dining scene, and local attractions.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Choose from a range of massage or aromatherapy treatments, under warm water jets known as AIX hydrotherapy, or indulge in body polishing rituals leaving you feeling blissful and restored. There is a Swedish massage for complete body relaxation, or gentle rhythmic strokes releasing nervous tension in our relax your mind aromatherapy massage. Timeless, age refining or triple berry anti-oxidant facials replenish and rehydrate with nourishing botanicals and pure essential oils. Our signature treatments with NZ Manuka Honey or Rotorua Geothermal Mud are nurturing experiences, wrapping you in a calming and nourishing cocoon. All therapies include a pre-therapy soak in the deluxe lake spa hot pools, leaving you relaxed, distressed and revived.

Rotorua Coach Stop to Napier Coach Stop

 

Your Accommodation

Art Deco Masonic Hotel

Right in the heart of 1930's Napier and opposite Hawke's Bay's MTG (museum), The Art Deco Centre and i-SITE, the Art Deco Masonic Hotel's location is perfect for exploring Napier. With a choice of stylish and individual accommodation styles your stay at Art Deco Masonic Hotel is guaranteed to add glamour and fond memories to your Napier experience. Guests enjoy a choice of bar and dining options including the "World's Best Bars" Emporium Eatery and Bar and the property offers all guests complimentary Wi-Fi internet.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

Art Deco Masonic Hotel

Savour some of Hawke's Bay's internationally acclaimed wine and gourmet delights on this fabulous Odyssey.  Relax where art meets science and learn how wine evolves from vine to glass. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views from Te Mata Peak. Visit a selection of the country's Top Premium Wineries including New Zealand's oldest Winery - Mission Estate. Taste award-winning wines from the acclaimed Gimblett Gravels area. Dine at the world-famous critically acclaimed restaurant at Craggy Range. Learn about Wine & Food Matching while indulging in a fine dining à la carte experience sourced from the finest local produce.

Napier Coach Stop to Wellington Railway Station

 

Your Accommodation

InterContinental Wellington

Adjacent to Wellington’s waterfront, InterContinental Wellington is the most centrally-located and experienced global five-star hotel in New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seamless and personal service of the team that makes your Wellington accommodation and travel experience truly memorable. Guests can spend time with the award-winning concierge team whose tips and insider knowledge help travelers discover the arts, events, shopping, and culinary cultures surrounding the hotel.

Duration

1 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

InterContinental Wellington

Wellington - City Centre to Wellington Ferry Terminal

 

Wellington Ferry Terminal to Picton Ferry Terminal

 

Picton Ferry Terminal to Blenheim

 

Your Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim

A recent multi-million dollar renovation has left this contemporary property sparkling with style and comfort. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, the hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim and puts some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. Scenic Hotel Marlborough offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service. You're sure to feel refreshed with a visit to Scenic Hotel Marlborough.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim

Your tour guide will show you through the fabulous Marlborough wine region stopping to enjoy two fine wine experiences including Marlborough's Iconic winery, Cloudy Bay. After two wonderful winery visits we will depart the wine region through to the Marlborough Sounds for a nice lunch right on the waterfront (own cost lunch). After lunch we depart the marina on the Marlborough Tour Company launch for a truly unique Seafood Cruise through the Marlborough Sounds. Take in the natural beauty of the native bush and the tranquility of the Sounds. Learn from your experienced Skipper the history of the Marlborough Sounds and the history of the pioneering families who have settled in the Sounds over 6 generations. Visit a marine farm and learn why seafood grows so well in the Marlborough Sounds. Enjoy a divine seafood tasting matched perfectly to a complimentary glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. A perfect wine and food match in a beautiful part of Marlborough. On arrival back in the marina transfer back to accommodation.

Blenheim i-SITE Visitor Center, The Railway Station, State Highway 1 to Christchurch Bus Exchange, Lichfield Street, Platform L

 

Your Accommodation

Adina Heritage Christchurch

The Adina Heritage Christchurch is located in the heart of New Zealand's Garden City, right on Cathedral Square, and is an ideal place to stay for leisure or business travellers. The hotel is a building of national significance, and is listed on the Historic Places Trust Register. Accommodation is in the historic Old Government Building Wing, opened in 1913 and carefully restored to provide a blend of old world charm and contemporary comfort. Enjoy rest, relaxation, and renaissance architecture at the Adina Heritage Christchurch.

Duration

2 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

Adina Heritage Christchurch

This tour explores 3 of North Canterbury’s boutique vineyards. From Christchurch drive north through the New Zealand countryside to the Waipara Valley, well known for its warm, dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape of the valley, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominating local plantings. Stops for tastings may include Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, Torlesse, Georges Road and Waipara Hills Winery. Should any of these be unavailable on the day, an alternative winery will be included. This tour includes lunch at Waipara Springs Winery. The platter lunch includes tastes of both a regional and New Zealand flavor and is the perfect accompaniment to some of this wineries fine wines.

Today, transfer from Christchurch to Queenstown while exploring some of New Zealand's most spellbinding landscapes. This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the region, including the famous Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier, making it the ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown. Your tour is led by passionate tour guides notorious for bringing the journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge.

 

Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook

 

Your Accommodation

Hotel St Moritz - MGallery Collection by Accor

Idyllically situated in the heart of Queenstown with wonderful views overlooking Lake Wakatipu to The Remarkables mountain range, Hotel St Moritz embodies the spirit of its location. Blending understated luxury with warmth, and genuine hospitality, Hotel St Moritz offers a choice of rooms and suites, each handsomely appointed to cleverly blend timeless classics with modern essentials. Hotel St Moritz features Lombardi Restaurant, Bar and Library, a gymnasium, and hot tub garden. Hotel St Moritz Queenstown is perfectly positioned for sightseeing and adventure. Take a stroll down the Esplanade for spectacular waterfront views, and into the town centre. A five minute stroll down to the lake front will see you discovering the delights of Queenstown's vibrant township, retail precinct and renowned eateries.

Duration

4 Night Stay

Meal Plan

Room Only

 

Hotel St Moritz - MGallery Collection by Accor

Join our small group tour for an afternoon amongst the boutique vineyards and splendid alpine scenery of Central Otago. Enjoy visits to four premium wineries over 2 contrasting wine sub-regions, learn about the wine and pioneering history of the area, and visit the historic precinct of Old Cromwell (time and weather permitting). This tour includes a delightful shared platter lunch and a premium glass of wine with lunch.

This Milford Sound day tour was established in 1994 and is a top-rated small group Milford Experience. It allows guests to escape the crowds and offer a truly unique day, showcasing this world famous region. On this full-day tour to Milford Sound enjoy guided commentary touring to and from Milford Sound with our experienced guides. These small group tours give guests the ability to get to know the driver and each other, creating a more personal and memorable experience. Once in Milford Sound, join a stunning 1-hr 45-min small boat nature cruise on the fiord - see waterfalls, fur seals, penguins, and occasionally dolphins. Enjoy fun and informative commentary from your nature guide, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track visits away from the crowds. Enjoy custom made, 16 seat, glass roof Mercedes touring vehicles. This is business class travel with extended legroom, leather interior and panoramic windows for the best views. Travelling to Milford is a 12-13 hour day from Queenstown. The smaller vehicles give the opportunity to stay away from the crowds as well as more flexibility with where we stop on the journey.

Enjoy the day as you wish. If you would like to arrange an activity, excursion, or other experience

Queenstown - City Centre to Queenstown Airport


Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.