Food and Wine
From farmers’ markets to seafood cruises, roadside food stalls, cellar doors and craft breweries, this seven-day food and wine tour is an adventure for your taste buds. See the sights, hunt down some delicacies and spend some time with the passionate people behind some of the region’s best known wine and food.
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Christchurch > Hanmer Springs
Dive right into your seven day tour, with a little wine tasting in Waipara, just north of Christchurch. Your first port of call is Pegasus Bay Winery, then on to Waipara Hills Winery for lunch in a beautiful vineyard setting. Finish your day with a relaxing soak at Hanmer Springs and dinner at the renowned No. 31 Restaurant.
Pegasus Bay Winery
Named one of New Zealand’s top five wine producers, by the hallowed Master of Wine Bob Campbell, Pegasus Bay Winery has a reputation as one of Waipara’s top wineries, producing wines that are adventurous and unique. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of a wide selection of estate grown wines, including
Waipara Hills Winery
Established in 2001, Waipara Hills has a proud history of creating award winning wines that celebrate their provenance. Sample their distinct range of aromatic varietals, plus Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rosé and Pinot Noir. Then soak up the serenity of their stunning vineyards and rolling hills, while enjoying a delicious lunch at their licensed café.
No.31 Restaurant
Enjoy sumptuous dining, featuring some of the best ingredients from Hurunui and New Zealand Head at the renowned No.31 Restaurant. This delightful little restaurant has been wowing guests for more than 10 years, with their award-winning menu, carefully curated by Chef Dean Robinson. Bookings are essential to avoid disappointment.
Hanmer Springs Hotel
Set among mature trees, with stunning views of the Southern Alps, this beautifully restored local landmark has been transformed into a resort with outdoor swimming pool, tennis and petanque courts. Enjoy local wines and cuisine at the elegant restaurant and bar, which features a roaring fire in winter, or al fresco dining in summer.
Hanmer Springs > Kaikōura
Enjoy a quick soak at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools before heading off to Kaikōura. What pairs well with an up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale? A locally brewed beer of course! Finish your day with the Kiwi classic battered fish and chips on the beach, and incredible views of the mountains and the sea, and you’ve got a day to remember.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is the fun place to relax and unwind. Soak in the natural rock pools or private spas, get your thrills on the hydroslides, or book an indulging massage or spa treatment in their exclusive spa.
Emporium Brewing
Located in the beautiful seaside town of Kaikoura, Emporium Brewing is far more than just a brewery. With an 18 hole mini golf course, two Escape Rooms and a new on-site bar, Emporium provides a range of activities for all ages. Sample their local brews and enjoy some lunch at their on-site bar.
Whale Watch Kaikōura
Whale Watch Kaikōura Jump aboard one of New Zealand’s most enduring tourist attractions and a truly memorable experience with Whale Watch Kaikōura. Enjoy an exciting up-close encounter with the world’s largest toothed predator the Giant Sperm Whale in their natural environment.
Fish and chips on the beach
Looking for some freedom and fun? Grab a feed at the local fish and chip shop and head to the beach! View the wildlife, explore the rocks, search the flotsam and jetsam and feast on some locally caught fish and chips - there’s no better way to end the day!
Sudima Kaikōura
Located right on the edge of the stunning Kaikōura coastline, Sudima Kaikōura is a brand new 4.5-star hotel with stunning views of mountains and sea. It’s just a short walk from the township’s retail centre and main activity and attraction booking centres, making it the ideal place to stay.
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Kaikōura > Blenheim
No self-respecting foodie could drive past Nin’s Bin without stopping in to taste Kaikōura’s delicacy at its freshest and finest. And as you turn inland away from the amazing coastal views, towards the picturesque vineyards of Marlborough, it’s pretty clear what this beautiful region is all about - world class wines.
Nin’s Bin
Sought after by chefs and foodies around the world, Kaikōura crayfish is a true delicacy and nowhere does it better than Nin’s Bin. This iconic family business has been running for 50 years - one taste and you’ll understand why. Fresh, quality ingredients cooked simply - utterly delicious!
Tūpari Wines
On your way to Blenheim, stop in at Tūpari Wines cellar door for a taste of their unique wines, which are grown in the Awatere Valley sub-region of Marlborough. The Tūpari range is a true reflection of the varietals that grow best in the Upper Awatere Valley and comprises Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Rosé and more.
Lawson’s Dry Hills
Lawson’s Dry Hills has been making award-winning wine in Marlborough for more than 30 years, with a philosophy based on authenticity, enjoyment and sustainability. Pop in for a warm welcome, a tasting of their reserve wines and maybe even something a little bit special, such as one of their limited release wines.
Frank’s Oyster Bar
The newest eatery in downtown Blenheim is Frank’s which opened its doors to much acclaim in 2022. Led by chef and local lad Sam, who has travelled the world, cooking up a storm, Frank’s offers an interesting and unique menu designed for sharing - highlighting the best local, seasonal fare on offer
Dodson Street Beer Garden
The home of locally brewed beer Renaissance, the Dodson Street Beer Garden is a family-friendly restaurant with a great selection of craft beers on tap and arguably the best beer garden in Blenheim! A brew and hearty pub feed in the sunny garden tops the must-do list for many locals.
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Blenheim
Wine lovers are spoiled for choice in Marlborough, so a wine tour is highly recommended for those wishing to make the most of their stay in the region. Slip in a cheeky gin tasting and top your stay off with a show stopping dinner at Arbour and you’ll have a day to remember.
Marlborough Wine Tours
If you are looking for the perfect way to explore and experience the very best of New Zealand wine, Marlborough Wine Tours’ half day tour is the ideal starting point. Tour four different wineries with an opportunity to taste a variety of the region’s best wines, including Marlborough’s flagship Sauvignon Blanc and world-class Pinot Noir.
Arbour Restaurant
Tucked among the vines in the heart of wine country, no trip to Marlborough is complete without dining at the darling of Marlborough’s food scene, Arbour. Established in 2015, by chef Bradley Hornby and hospitality superstar Liz Buttimore, Arbour offers innovative cuisine, an extensive wine list and warm, friendly service in a modern and relaxed environment.
Roots Gin Shack + Tasting Room
Located in the Vines Village, Roots Gin Shack is Marlborough's home of award-winning gin. Enjoy tasting rare boutique NZ Gin and our very own Roots Marlborough Dry Gin produced on site – awarded ‘NZs best gin’ at the 2021 NZ Spirit Awards and ‘World’s Best Gin’ at the 2023 World Gin Awards. From signature G&T or negroni on tap, and a menu of seasonal cocktails to exquisite wines and curated selection beers – there is something for everyone. Paired with an elegant menu from the team behind Franks Oyster Bar & Eatery, you can enjoy mouthwatering skewers, and other irresistible bites designed to complement our gin creations.
Blenheim > Nelson
Wave goodbye to wine country and say hello to one of the most diverse food baskets in New Zealand: Nelson Tasman, home to world class wineries, breweries and a humming cafe and restaurant scene. If you happen to be passing through on a Saturday, a visit to Nelson’s Saturday Market is not to be missed!
Mapua Wharf
Situated by the stunning Waimea Estuary, Mapua Wharf is the perfect destination to enjoy some retail therapy and dining with a sea view. Enjoy great coffee at Rabbit Island Coffee or Alberta’s, local seafood at the Smokehouse, wine with a view at Rimu Wine Bar or award winning meals at Jellyfish or The Apple Shed.
Nelson Market
The Nelson Market is well known for its fine produce and quality artistry. Every Saturday morning for more than 40 years, Nelson artesans have welcomed visitors to shop for fresh fruit and vegetables, taste gourmet local produce, browse locally made arts, crafts, jewellery and clothing and share brunch and coffee under the warm Nelson sun.
Wine Art & Wilderness
For the definitive guide to Nelson Tasman and Marlborough, get in touch with Wine Art and Wilderness, which specialises in exclusive luxury tours that get to the heart of what makes these regions so unique. Choose from a range of tours or ‘trust the guide’ to design a tour based on your specific interests.
Pic’s Peanut Butter World
Peanut butter lovers, this one’s for you! Pic’s world-famous peanut butter tours have been designed for people of all ages to share the wonder in how New Zealand’s most-loved peanut butter is made. Complete your tour with a visit to their dedicated peanut butter store and eatery.
Nelson > Greymouth
Head to the West Coast for some wild scenery, character-rich cafes serving up classic Kiwi fare, beautifully restored taverns oozing historic charm and hearty pub grub and uber-modern eateries with cosmopolitan menus. Loosen that belt buckle and prepare yourself for an exploration of sensational flavours, textures and aromas.
Monteith’s Brewery
Located in Greymouth, the iconic Monteith’s Brewery is the original home of craft brewing in New Zealand. Take the guided 45-minute brewery experience tour to learn about craft beer and the brewing process. Pour your own beer from the tap and relax in their lively restaurant and enjoy something from their locally inspired menu.
Reefton Distilling Co
For a genuine taste of the intrepid spirit of the West Coast and its people, a trip to the Reefton Distilling Co is a great place to start. Housed in one of Reefton’s beautiful heritage buildings, the distillery produces premium handcrafted spirits distilled from the West Coast’s lush rainforest.
Greymouth > Christchurch
There’s no better way to end your whistle stop tour of the top of the south, than travelling back to Christchurch on board the Tranzalpine Train, through the mighty Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island. Enjoy jaw-dropping scenery and a chance to stretch the legs in beautiful Arthur’s Pass.
Tranzalpine Train
Experience the flavours of our land and elevate your experience with Scenic Plus, a full-sensory exploration of the lands you travel through aboard your TranzAlpine rail journey. Billed as one of the world's great train journeys, covering 223 kilometres, the TranzAlpine train travels coast-to-coast through the Great Divide and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island.