Planning a day outside of Auckland? The Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into New Zealand’s charming countryside, combining art, gastronomy, and local culture in a relaxed, personalized setting. With a dedicated guide, private luxury transport, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour promises an engaging day for lovers of creativity, wine, and authentic local flavors.
What really draws us in is the balance of activities: the chance to explore internationally renowned Sculptureum, sample boutique wines, and enjoy delicious treats like award-winning chocolates and Hokey Pokey ice cream. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you’ll get a tailored experience with fewer crowds — perfect for those who prefer a more intimate day. That said, it’s a six-hour commitment, and if you’re not a fan of long drives or certain activities like wine tastings, it might be worth considering.
This tour suits travelers who want to combine cultural sights with gourmet indulgence and a touch of rural Kiwi charm. It’s especially ideal for couples, art lovers, and those wanting a flexible, personal experience away from the busy city.
Key Points
- Highly personalized: Private group with a professional guide and luxury transport
- Diverse experiences: Art, wine, chocolate, and local market visits all in one day
- Convenient: Pick-up and drop-off at any Auckland hotel, airport, or cruise port included
- Cultural and culinary: Combines visual arts with gourmet tastings and local delicacies
- Value for money: At $468 per person, offers a comprehensive, luxury experience
- On Saturdays: Opportunity to visit the vibrant Matakana Farmers Market for artisan goods
Why Choose the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour?
This tour is a fantastic way to escape Auckland’s city buzz and truly savor the countryside’s treasures. It’s flexible enough for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, with a focus on authentic, local experiences. If you’re someone who appreciates good art, fine wines, and delicious food, you’ll find plenty to love here. The private setting ensures a relaxed, personalized outing—no rushing from one stop to another.
The tour’s 6-hour length strikes a good balance: enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling overwhelmed. We appreciate that it’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wider range of travelers. The inclusion of free Wi-Fi and bottled water on board adds a touch of comfort, making the journey even more pleasant.
However, remember this experience is priced at $468 per person, which reflects its premium, all-inclusive nature. For travelers on a tighter budget, it’s worth weighing whether the personalized touch and curated stops meet your expectations of value. Overall, it’s a well-rounded day for culture, culinary delights, and scenic views.
Looking for more options in Matakana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your Day Out
Scenic Drive from Auckland to Matakana
The journey kicks off with a luxury Mercedes Benz van, offering a smooth, comfortable ride that gets you from city to countryside in just about 45 minutes. During the drive, your guide will likely share insights about the region’s history and landscape, setting the scene for the day ahead. The vehicle is equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can even browse or plan your next steps as you go.
Sculptureum: An Art Lover’s Paradise
Your first stop is Sculptureum, a standout attraction blending sculpture gardens with art galleries. It’s a feast for the senses, with outdoor sculptures that flirt with nature and indoor galleries filled with vibrant pieces from around the world.
Past visitors describe it as a “unique fusion of sculpture and museum,” where the outdoor gardens are “full of surprises,” and the indoor galleries showcase a diverse mix of works. The gardens are extensive, so comfortable shoes are a must. This experience is a highlight for those who love art with a bit of whimsy and creativity.
More Great Tours NearbyChocolate Tasting at Local Artisans
Next, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, where you can observe the creation of gourmet chocolates. The descriptions from previous guests mention witnessing “exquisite chocolate art,” and the opportunity to enjoy a hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. It’s a perfect break to indulge your sweet tooth while soaking in the cozy atmosphere.
Wine and Beer Tastings
Depending on your preference, you’ll either sample two boutique vineyards or explore five beer tastings at one of Auckland’s top breweries.
Wine lovers will appreciate the chance to taste a curated selection of local wines, often described as “delicious and well curated,” with some visitors noting that the vineyards are “boutique and personal.” For those who prefer beer, a brewery tour adds a different flavor to your day, with five tastings providing a good range of local brews.
Matakana Village Farmers Market (Saturdays Only)
If your visit falls on a Saturday, the Matakana Farmers Market becomes a lively hub of organic produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts. It’s a feast for the senses, and previous visitors highlight the “amazing variety of local goodies,” and the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs.
Ice Cream and Final Sweet Stops
No trip to New Zealand is complete without tasting Hokey Pokey Ice Cream, a local favorite with a caramel honeycomb flavor. It’s a sweet ending to your day, often described as “delicious and creamy”—a perfect way to cool down after a busy day of sightseeing.
The Practical Details
Transportation and Comfort
Your private tour includes luxury Mercedes Benz transport with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey. The vehicle can accommodate wheelchair users, making accessibility straightforward.
Duration and Group Size
The 6-hour experience is designed for flexibility, and being a private group, it’s tailored to your pace. The tour starts at a time that suits your schedule (availability varies), and the minimum number of participants is two.
Cost and Value
At $468 per person, the tour leans toward the premium side, but the inclusion of private transport, multiple tastings, and personalized guiding justifies the price. Compared to individual admissions or group tours, this private experience offers more comfort and customization, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or small group.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s a fair amount of walking, especially at Sculptureum and the Farmer’s Market. Weather-appropriate clothing ensures you’re ready for any changes in the outdoor elements, especially if exploring the sculpture gardens or market stalls.
Authentic Trip Insights and Guest Reviews
Guests have expressed that the guided nature of this tour makes a difference—“Having a knowledgeable guide made all the difference,” one reviewer said, noting that insights about local art and wine added depth to their experience. Others appreciated the flexibility of a private tour, allowing them to spend more time at favorite stops or skip something if they preferred.
One reviewer highlighted the “delicious chocolate and wine,” emphasizing that the tasting experiences felt curated and authentic, not commercialized. The scenic drive was also praised, with many appreciating the lush, green landscapes that set the tone for a peaceful escape.
Final Thoughts
This private tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes New Zealand’s countryside special. It’s perfect for those who enjoy art, gourmet food, and scenic drives in a relaxed, personalized setting. The combination of cultural highlights like Sculptureum, plus local culinary experiences, makes it an appealing choice for curious travelers looking for a full-day escape from Auckland.
While it is on the pricier side, the value largely depends on your appreciation for curated experiences and comfort. If you’re after a flexible, intimate journey through the top sights and tastes of Matakana, this tour delivers on authenticity, ease, and insight.
In summary, this experience is best suited for art lovers, wine enthusiasts, couples, and foodies who want a memorable, stress-free day out with a touch of luxury. Whether it’s your first time in the area or a return visit, it offers a genuine slice of Kiwi countryside charm—well worth the investment.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for those with mobility concerns.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from any Auckland hotel, airport, or cruise port, private Mercedes Benz transportation with Wi-Fi, professional guide, bottled water, light refreshments, visits to Sculptureum, tastings at two vineyards or a brewery, chocolate tasting with hot chocolate, and Hokey Pokey ice cream.
Can I visit the Farmers Market on a day other than Saturday?
No, the Farmers Market operates only on Saturdays, so if you want to experience this, plan your visit accordingly.
How long is the drive from Auckland to Matakana?
It’s approximately 45 minutes by luxury vehicle, offering a comfortable start to your day.
What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially for outdoor walks and market visits.
Are food and drinks included during the tour?
Yes, light refreshments, hot drinks at the chocolatier, wine or beer tastings, and Hokey Pokey ice cream are included.
Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized experience.
What if I have dietary requirements?
Please notify the tour provider at the time of booking; they will do their best to accommodate your needs.
How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for unforeseen changes.
This private tour offers a carefully curated day out in the scenic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, blending art, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes—all with the comfort of personalized service. Perfect for those seeking an authentic, relaxed experience away from the crowds.
You can check availability for your dates here: