New Zealand is a land of dramatic landscapes, lively cities, and unique experiences that make every tour unforgettable. Whether you’re a wine lover, an adventure seeker, or someone who wants to see it all on a long trip, NZ’s tours are designed to suit a wide range of interests. We especially love the Marlborough wine trips for their scenic vineyards and expert guides, and the epic 90-day tour for those wanting to truly enjoy everything Kiwi. These experiences offer a taste of New Zealand’s natural beauty and local flavors in ways that are both authentic and fun.
From the quiet elegance of Marlborough’s vineyards to the bustling excitement of a multi-week road trip, New Zealand’s tours combine stunning scenery with practical, well-organized itineraries. They’re perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time while enjoying personalized attention and insider access. If you’re considering a trip, these options give a good starting point to find something that fits your style and schedule.
Quick Overview
This list covers three top tours that stand out for their originality, quality, and value:
- A half-day wine tour from Picton that takes you through Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards. Perfect for cruise travelers wanting a taste of local wine and scenery. Explore the Marlborough Wine Trip Shore Excursion
- A private luxury wine and culinary experience from Lyttelton, including exclusive vineyard visits and a chef’s degustation. Ideal for those seeking a personalized, upscale day. Learn more about the Private Wine Tour & Chef’s Degustation
- An epic 90-day guided tour of both North and South Islands, perfect for travelers who want to see everything from Hobbiton to glaciers in one comprehensive package. See the 90-Day Tour details
Now, let’s dive into each of these top tours to see what makes them special.
1. From Picton: Marlborough Wine Trip Shore Excursion
If you’re arriving in Picton on a cruise, this 5-hour Marlborough wine tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy New Zealand’s most renowned wine region without missing your ship. The tour visits at least four cellars, including iconic wineries, giving you a well-rounded taste of Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals. It’s a small-group tour, which means you’ll get a more personal experience and plenty of face time with your expert wine guide.
The scenery along the way is as impressive as the wines, with lush vineyards set against rolling hills. You’ll also visit some of the region’s top restaurants, which are as much about the setting as the food and wine. The minibuses are air-conditioned, making the trip comfortable even on warm days. Reviews average a high 4.8 out of 5, with many guests praising the friendly guides and intimate atmosphere. One reviewer said, “It felt like visiting friends who just happened to be wine experts.”
This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, cruise travelers with limited time, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet insightful introduction to Marlborough’s acclaimed wines. The value for $146 per person makes it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable half-day.
Bottom Line: A small-group, well-organized wine tour that perfectly balances scenery, education, and fun—ideal for cruise visitors short on time.
2. From Lyttelton: Private Wine Tour & Chef’s Degustation
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Jade Tours offers a 6-hour private luxury wine and culinary tour. Starting from Lyttelton, this tour takes you to Greystone and Muddy Water Vineyards, where you’ll enjoy exclusive tastings that aren’t available to the general public. What sets this tour apart is the combination of vineyard visits, a seasonal multi-course lunch crafted by a professional chef, and behind-the-scenes access, including a scenic walk through the vineyards.
The tour is hosted by one of the original founders of Greystone, ensuring a personal touch and deep knowledge of the region’s wine production. After a hosted morning tea and insightful commentary, you’ll enjoy a seasonal degustation, with wines expertly matched to each course. To remember your day, you’ll also receive a complimentary bottle of Greystone wine to take home.
This experience is ideal for lovers of fine food and wine who want a tailored, intimate day. It’s priced higher but offers unmatched exclusivity and personalized attention. One recent participant noted, “The behind-the-scenes access and the chef’s pairing made this a truly special day.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a luxurious, personalized wine and culinary experience, with insider access and memorable food.
3. New Zealand: Guided 90-Day Tour of North & South Islands
If your idea of travel is checking off every must-see and experiencing everything Kiwi, the 90-day guided tour offers the ultimate adventure. It’s the longest commercial road trip in New Zealand, covering key highlights such as Queenstown, Rotorua, Mount Cook, Bay of Islands, Kaikoura, and Fiordland. The tour combines sightseeing, hikes, and cultural experiences, including a visit to Hobbiton™ and wine tasting in Blenheim and Central Otago.
You’ll have opportunities to hike Tongariro Crossing, explore Abel Tasman National Park, or even climb or land on glaciers at Franz Josef and Fox. The itinerary is packed but flexible enough for those who want to do more or less in each location. The tour runs for 90 days, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at New Zealand’s natural wonders and local life. Pricing isn’t specified, but the value is in the scope and depth of experience.
Reviewers (though not explicitly rated here) typically highlight the inclusiveness and depth of the itinerary. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for a long-term, all-encompassing exploration, or those with plenty of time to truly soak in the scenery and culture.
Bottom Line: For serious adventurers and explorers, this is the ultimate way to see all that New Zealand has to offer in one epic journey.
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your travel style and priorities. If you’re short on time but want a quality wine experience, the Marlborough wine trip from Picton will serve you well—especially if you enjoy small groups and expert guides. For a more indulgent, private day with personalized touches, the Lyttelton luxury tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating something special or simply want the best day ever.
If you’re planning a longer visit and want to see everything New Zealand has, the 90-day tour is your best bet. It’s a significant commitment but offers the chance to experience everything from glaciers to Maori culture, from Hobbiton to Fiordland.
Remember to consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For example, if you’re a wine enthusiast with limited time, the first tour hits the spot. If you’re after a luxurious, customized experience, go private. For those with serious wanderlust, the 90-day journey will satisfy every curiosity.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand offers an impressive variety of tours that suit all kinds of travelers. For a quick taste of world-class wine, the Picton shore excursion is an excellent choice. If you want something more personalized, the private vineyard and culinary experience in Canterbury will delight. And for those who want to see everything in one trip, the 90-day guided tour has you covered.
Booking early ensures you secure your spot, especially for the longer tours that fill up quickly. Whether you’re after a short wine tasting or a comprehensive cross-country adventure, these tours help you make the most of your New Zealand trip—so get planning and start packing!