Discover striking cellar doors, scenic views and signature flavours on this pre-eminent wine trail.
On this self-guided wine tour, you’ll see exactly why New Zealand wines have caught the world’s attention. This trail connects three powerhouse regions – Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa, and Marlborough – yielding 80% of the country’s wine production. Stretching from the East Coast of the North Island to the top of the South, this route can be done year-round. Simply follow the grape signs.
Day 1
Your journey begins in the Hawke’s Bay on the North Island’s east coast. This Great Wine Capital(opens in new window) is renowned for a unique terroir that produces an array of varieties, most notably Bordeaux-style reds, syrah, and chardonnay.
You’ll spend the day immersed in experiences and settings tied to the region’s wine scene. Start by visiting the cellar doors of top labels like Craggy Range, Mission Estate, Te Mata Estate, Trinity Hill(opens in new window), Black Barn, and Elephant Hill – all of which boast stunning settings to complement their award-winning wines.
For a deeper dive, explore the region’s winemaking heritage through curated experiences. Church Road’s TOM Experience and the Smith & Sheth Oenotheque(opens in new window) are great places to start.
Day 2
When you aren't exploring cellar doors, take a guided walking tour(opens in new window) in Napier, the world’s most complete Art Deco city. Alternatively, explore the region on a cycling tour with Tākaro Trails.
Morning
Leaving the Hawke’s Bay behind, a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive along State Highway 2 leads you to Wairarapa, one of New Zealand’s most rewarding hidden gems. This boutique wine region has a world-class reputation, with three main subregions producing standout pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and complex aromatics.
Afternoon
Once you have settled in, spend the afternoon exploring celebrated cellar doors such as Ata Rangi(opens in new window), Palliser Estate(opens in new window), Moy Hall(opens in new window), and Poppies(opens in new window). With more than 20 wineries clustered around the charming Martinborough village, exploring the vines by bicycle has become a quintessential rite of passage. Local providers like Bike Hire Martinborough, Indi Bikes, and Green Jersey Cycle Hire make it easy to navigate the flat, picturesque roads at your own pace.
Morning
Begin your day by wandering through Wairarapa’s historic villages, where the region’s colonial heritage remains beautifully intact. Greytown charms visitors with its meticulously preserved Victorian-era main street, while in Martinborough, the grand Martinborough Hotel has served as a sophisticated focal point of the town square since 1882. For those seeking adventure, the landscape offers everything from the dramatic earth pillar formations of Pūtangirua Pinnacles(opens in new window) to the rugged coastline of Cape Palliser, home to a thriving permanent seal colony.
Night-time
Wait for nightfall to witness Wairarapa’s other claim to fame, its International Dark Sky Reserve. Recently named one of Lonely Planet’s(opens in new window) top 25 global experiences for 2026, the region’s stargazing tours invite visitors to immerse themselves in some of the world’s most pristine night skies.
Morning
Head south to Wellington – New Zealand’s vibrant capital renowned for its sophisticated culinary scene, world-class coffee, and pioneering craft beer. The journey from Wairarapa is a 75-minute drive along State Highway 2, taking you over the scenic Remutaka Ranges and directly into the heart of the city.
Afternoon
Wellington’s reputation for effortless cool is best captured by its dining scene. Once settled, depart for a long lunch: Logan Brown(opens in new window) has remained a beloved icon for over 25 years, while Rita(opens in new window) offers an intimate experience in a repurposed worker’s cottage. For a more relaxed yet exceptional meal, Ortega Fish Shack(opens in new window) puts the finest New Zealand kaimoana (seafood) centre stage.
Spend your afternoon exploring a trio of city icons. Start at the waterfront with Te Papa, the national museum offering profound insight into New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. A short drive away, Wētā Workshop provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the cinematic artistry films like The Lord of the Rings. Finally, find a change of pace at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, a world-first urban ecosanctuary providing a safe haven for New Zealand’s native species, just ten minutes from the city centre.
Day 6
Begin your morning with a flat white from one of Wellington's excellent cafes, then take the ferry from Wellington to Marlborough, the gateway to the South Island. While the region gained international fame for its sauvignon blanc, it is now equally recognized for its pinot noir, intense chardonnay, and crisp aromatics.
Spend your afternoon sampling award-winning wines alongside local delicacies like Greenshell mussels and King salmon. A visit to the Wine + Food Experience(opens in new window) offers a personalized introduction through innovative WineEmotion dispensers and intimate tastings paired with regional cheeses and seafood. For an iconic Marlborough experience, head to Cloudy Bay(opens in new window), recently named one of the world's top thirty wineries. Other top wineries include Johanneshof(opens in new window), Forrest(opens in new window), Clos Henri(opens in new window), Wither Hills(opens in new window), Allan Scott(opens in new window), and Saint Clair(opens in new window).
Alternatively, join Explore Marlborough(opens in new window) for a guided bike tour, navigating scenic vineyard trails and quiet back roads at a relaxed pace.
Day 7
Beyond the vineyards, the Marlborough Sounds are the real highlight. The best way to see them is from the water. The Cloudy Bay Sail Away tour and the Seafood Odyssea Cruise are highly recommended. If you prefer to stay on land, the Queen Charlotte Track offers a beautiful way to explore the coast. You can walk or bike a small section for a few hours, or take three days to do the whole trail, staying in comfortable resorts along the way.
Even small amounts of alcohol can affect your driving, so if you drink alcohol, please don’t drive. Suggestions for alternative transport options are listed under each region.
Important things you need to know about driving in New Zealand.
