If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand’s North Island and want to add a flavorful twist to your visit, this Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour offers a fantastic way to sample some of the region’s best local products. With a well-balanced itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and a small group setting, it promises a relaxed, fun, and insightful afternoon.
From vineyard vistas to local breweries and spirits bars, the tour covers a lot of ground in just four hours. We love the opportunity to taste from multiple producers, learn about their craft, and enjoy a tasty platter lunch with a view. One small caveat? If you’re a dedicated wine connoisseur, you might feel the wine tastings are somewhat limited; however, the overall experience remains excellent for most travelers. Perfect for foodies, craft drink lovers, or anyone wanting to discover authentic flavors of the Bay of Islands, this tour combines education with delicious indulgence.
Key Points
- Small Group Experience: Max 11 participants, ensuring intimate attention and more personalized interactions.
- Diverse Tastings: Enjoy wines, craft beers, and spirits at carefully selected venues.
- Scenic Locations: The tour includes picturesque views of the Bay of Islands and its stunning landscapes.
- Tasty Platter Lunch: A generous, locally inspired lunch at Marsden Estate adds a satisfying break.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Derek and Bill are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
- Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickups in Paihia and Kerikeri make logistics simple.
An In-Depth Look at This Unique Flavour Tour
The Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour stands out for its curated approach to showcasing the region’s best producers. It’s run by Mullarkeys Tours, renowned for their small-group focus, which means fewer crowds and more tailored experiences. The entire journey lasts about four hours, making it perfect for an afternoon outing without feeling rushed.
Starting Point and Timing
The tour kicks off at the Paihia I-site at 12:30 pm or in Kerikeri at the BP Service Station around 1:00 pm, depending on your accommodation. This flexibility is helpful, especially if you’re based in either town. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus, with a maximum of 11 travelers – a size that’s ideal for engaging conversation and personalized attention.
First Stop: Marsden Estate
The first venue is Marsden Estate, a family-run vineyard established over 30 years ago by the McIvor family. Here, you’ll enjoy six wine tastings in a relaxed courtyard overlooking vineyards and a lake — a setting that makes the tasting feel more like visiting a friend’s country home than a formal cellar door. Reviewers like Esther from the Netherlands mention the “delicious wine and lunch platter,” emphasizing the quality of the experience.
The wine options are plentiful, and the staff are attentive, sharing insights into the winemaking process and regional characteristics. The lunch platter, paired with the wines, offers a satisfying taste of local produce, making this stop both flavorful and scenic.
Second Stop: Phat House Brewery at Haruru Falls
Next, the group heads to Phat House Brewery, a craft brewery founded in 2015 by Caroline and Rob. Their commitment to using natural ingredients shows in every sip of their unfiltered, unpasteurized beers and ciders. You can sample up to four different products, choosing from a wide range of options that cater to various palates.
From reviews, we know guests find the beers well-crafted and flavorful. Caroline and Rob’s passion for brewing is evident, and their location near Haruru Falls adds a lovely backdrop. This stop provides a nice contrast to the vineyard, showcasing the region’s versatility in brewing.
More Great Tours NearbyFinal Stop: Bad Habits Spirits Bar in Paihia
The last tasting is at Bad Habits, a bar boasting the largest selection of New Zealand-made spirits north of Auckland. Customers can choose from 46 gins, 19 rums, 11 vodkas, 24 whiskeys, and 34 liqueurs, offering a comprehensive snapshot of NZ’s distilling scene.
Guests are offered three spirit tastings along with food samples designed to complement each drink. Reviewers like Maryse from Canada mention the “professional” service, and many appreciate the opportunity to explore local spirits they might not find elsewhere. It’s the perfect place to wrap up the tour with a relaxed vibe and maybe pick up a bottle to take home as a memento.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s value is enhanced by the inclusion of pickup and drop-off, tastings at each location, and a tasty platter lunch. For $114 per person, this feels like a reasonable price considering the quality of the venues and the personalized experience. Extra food and drinks aren’t included—so if you’re a big eater or a spirits enthusiast, you might want to budget for extra.
Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
Recent reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the carefully curated venues. Derek, in particular, receives praise for his friendliness and storytelling, adding depth to the experience. One guest from Australia called the tour “fantastic,” appreciating the mix of wine, beer, and spirits.
However, not all feedback is glowing. A review in early 2024 pointed out that the wine tastings were limited at one location, and the second venue felt somewhat rushed, with no detailed explanations. Still, most travelers agree that the overall value and friendliness of the guides outweigh these minor hiccups.
Transportation and Group Size
Traveling in a comfortable, small-group vehicle makes the journey enjoyable and intimate. The limited group size means you’re less likely to feel like just another tourist and more like visiting friends. The timings—starting in the early afternoon—allow you to enjoy the relaxed pace without feeling pressed for time.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits food and drink lovers, casual wine enthusiasts, or curious travelers eager to learn more about New Zealand’s local producers. It’s also a great choice if you prefer a more personalized, relaxed environment over large bus tours. The moderate price point makes it accessible for most travelers wanting a taste of authentic NZ beverages without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Bay of Islands’ beverage scene. The combination of scenic locations, friendly guides, and high-quality tastings makes it an engaging way to spend a few hours. The included platter lunch is a bonus, providing a satisfying break and a chance to savor local flavors.
While the wine tastings might feel limited for serious connoisseurs, the variety of spirits and craft beers more than compensates for that. The small-group format keeps things intimate and relaxed, perfect for travelers who enjoy good conversations and personalized service.
If you’re after a fun, flavorful experience that balances education, taste, and scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those new to NZ wines and spirits or anyone wanting a taste of local craftsmanship in a beautiful setting.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable afternoon activity.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Paihia I-site or in Kerikeri at the BP Service Station, depending on your booking.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs are included from the designated meeting points.
What is included in the price?
Tastings of wine, beer, and spirits at each venue, plus a platter lunch, are all included.
Can I buy what I taste?
Yes, you can purchase wines, spirits, or beers to take home as souvenirs.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.
How many people are on each tour?
The tour is limited to 11 participants, ensuring a small, intimate group.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a camera, and an eagerness to learn and taste are all you need.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, this Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour offers a delightful way to explore the local beverage scene with expert guides, scenic stops, and tasty food. Ideal for those looking for an authentic, relaxed experience that combines good company, great drinks, and beautiful views. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy on this thoughtfully curated tour.
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