Explore three well known wine regions along this popular touring route. Hawkes Bay; New Zealand’s oldest wine growing region and home to world-class examples of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabenet Franc. From Hawkes Bay travel south to Wairarapa region and the village of Martinborough. The region is most famous for its dense, powerful Pinot Noir but can also make impressive reds from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. From Martinborough it is just over an hour to Wellington (New Zealand’s capital city) and a ferry crossing (3 hours) to Marlborough (New Zealand’s largest grape growing region). Marlborough is well known international for its Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Start in Auckland and travel down the North Island on Thermal Explorer or Pacific Coast Highway and start The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail in Hawkes Bay (2 nights), travel onto Martinborough (stay one night), drive to Wellington (1 night), catch the ferry across to Marlborough and spend two nights.
Tararua
Tararua is a rural paradise offering lush farmland, native bush, adventurous beaches and rugged forest parks to experience and explore. Enjoy an eco and nature tour experience at Pukaha Mount Bruce or shop for interesting antiques in the friendly country towns.
Wairarapa Region (Martinborough)
Tararua leads into the Wairarapa wine region, where charming historic towns offer a tempting mix of shopping and dining experiences. Stroll around the wineries in Martinborough and throughout the region to discover artisan chocolate, gourmet mushrooms, olives, cider, French pastries and other goodies. Explore the boutique shops of beautifully presented Victorian Greytown.
Wellington
Before you leave the North Island, reserve at least two days to discover Wellington – a gorgeous harbour city brimming with history, creative energy and culture. Enjoy visits to Te Papa (the national museum), catch a live theatre performance and discover tasty restaurant precincts. Iconic expeditions include a ride on the cable car, strolling around Oriental Bay and walking up Mount Victoria.
Marlborough
A memorable ferry journey takes you over Cook Strait to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. There are more than 50 wineries to visit around Marlborough; many offer the additional pleasure of a vineyard restaurant. Other attractions include a ground-breaking aircraft museum, river boat cruising, fishing trips and all kinds of artisan food producers.