New Zealand has long been celebrated for its pure waters, awe-inspiring landscapes, and exceptional farm-to-table dining that showcases the country’s pristine natural bounty. Now, the nation is claiming its place on the world stage for another reason: its extraordinary wine.
From the crisp sauvignon blancs of Marlborough to the elegant pinot noirs of Central Otago, New Zealand’s cool-climate vineyards are producing some of the world’s most sought-after wines.
No matter where you travel across New Zealand’s North and South Islands, you’ll find yourself immersed in wine country. Discover the perfect marriage of dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and outstanding food and wine with a self-drive journey along the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Ready to raise a glass? Flight Centre has crafted four wine-centric, self-drive tours designed to showcase New Zealand’s finest regions.
Find Your Favourite New Zealand Wine Region
The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail takes you through four of New Zealand’s iconic regions. Each region brings its own charms. In New Zealand’s oldest wine region, Hawke’s Bay, you’ll experience art deco design and charming heritage. The rolling landscapes of Wairarapa sees small village charm with passionate bespoke winemakers. Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest growing region, home to impeccable sauvignon blancs. While Wellington brings everything together, with a vibrant food scene and perfectly paired wines.
Adventure the North Island
Explore everything the North Island has to offer with a 13-day self-driven Classic New Zealand Wine Trail adventure starting from Wellington and winding your way north to Auckland.
The capital, Wellington, is your invitation to adventure. As an international arrivals hub, it’s also the perfect choice if you’re short on time and want to do an eight-day North Island wine tour instead. You’ll still get to experience New Zealand’s oldest wine country, with food tours and wine tasting firmly on the menu.
Wellington is also where you can board the Interislander Ferry for a scenic crossing of the Cook Strait; your gateway to the South Island’s wine country and beyond.
Venture north to Martinborough, where free-draining gravel soils and cool, dry climates create the ideal conditions for exceptional pinot noir and sauvignon blanc. At the family-owned Ata Rangi vineyard, impeccable wines go hand-in-hand with a commitment to conservation.
Continuing north, you’ll reach the Hawke’s Bay region, the northern tip of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, home to Napier and Havelock North. The East Coast district is a showcase of Art Deco architecture, sunshine and most importantly, wine. As New Zealand’s oldest wine region, Hawke’s Bay is skilled at producing spicy syrah and an abundance of aromatic whites. Te Mata Estate and Craggy Range are stand-outs.
And end with a delight for your tastebuds, thanks to Auckland’s bustling food scene. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from the vibrant Waiheke Island and geothermal Rotorua.
Experience both Islands
As you head south, discover why Marlborough’s sauvignon blanc has captivated wine lovers worldwide. Pair a glass with dramatic coastal scenery and the freshest seafood and you’ll understand what makes this region unforgettable.
The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail might end in the Marlborough region, but your tour of the South Island doesn’t have to. Meander further south to the ‘garden city’ of Christchurch, enjoying the vibrant heritage the town has to offer.
If you want to take your time traversing both islands, enjoying all the stops along the way, Flight Centre’s 14-day Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is your best bet. Aside from indulging in wine and food, this experience also includes Rotorua’s Sky Gondola and art-deco inspired gin tastings. Or for a more luxurious experience opt for Flight Centre’s indulgent 12-day tour.
If you want to stay a little longer, add on an extra stop through Queenstown’s iconic Central Otago region, producer of acclaimed pinot noirs and home to celebrated cellar doors.
You’ll be sure to come home with a new favourite New Zealand wine region and a cellar door membership you can’t wait to taste.
A thriving global travel brand, Flight Centre is trusted by travellers every day to open up the world. From flights and stays to cruises, tours and everything in between, they create extraordinary travel experiences with deals for everyone.
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