Hawkes Bay Wine & Local Producers Tour | Award Winning | 6 hours

If you’re considering a day trip to Hawke’s Bay dedicated to wine, food, and scenic beauty, the Hawkes Bay Wine & Local Producers Tour offers a compelling package. From its award-winning status for sustainable wine tourism to its carefully curated itinerary across three iconic subregions, this experience promises a taste of New Zealand’s famed wine scene combined with authentic local flavors.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances small-group intimacy with a well-structured journey through Hawke’s Bay’s notable wineries. The inclusion of local produce, especially at Te Mata Figs, adds a genuine touch of regional flavor. The luxury transportation in Mercedes Benz vehicles makes the ride comfortable and stylish, and the expert guides (noted for their knowledge and personable approach) certainly elevate the experience.

A potential consideration is that the tour’s price point of around $166 per person might seem steep for some, particularly if you’re on a tight budget or prefer DIY wine tasting. However, when factoring in all tastings, a guided experience, lunch, and transport, many find the value well worth it.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Hawke’s Bay’s wine culture with a focus on quality, local insights, and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, relaxed way to see the region without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

Key Points

• Curated regional experience spanning Gimblett Gravels, Te Mata Hills, and Te Awanga Coast.
• Expert-guided tastings at Pask Winery, Te Mata Estate, and Clearview Estate.
• Authentic local produce visit with a tour of Te Mata Figs and a generous lunch platter.
• Luxury transport ensures comfort and convenience throughout the day.
• Small group sizes (up to 11 travelers) foster a personalized atmosphere.
• All tastings and some extras are included in the price, making it a hassle-free outing.

An Authentic and Well-Structured Itinerary

Starting in the Gimblett Gravels

The journey kicks off in the heart of Hawke’s Bay. The Gimblett Gravels area is famed for its bold reds, thanks to the ancient riverbeds that provide excellent drainage and mineral-rich soil. The five-minute stop here is mainly for orientation and soaking in the vineyard’s landscape — a quick taste of what’s to come.

Pask Winery: Bordeaux Blends and Syrah

The first tasting stop at Pask Winery offers a real highlight. Known as one of the founding producers of the region, Pask boasts a strong reputation for its Bordeaux-style blends and Syrah. Here, you’ll spend about an hour sampling these standout wines, guided by knowledgeable staff who can explain the nuances behind each bottle.

Based on reviews, the wine selection is excellent, with guests mentioning the “delicious wines” and “friendly, professional guides.” Several noted that the hosts at Pask made the tasting both informative and fun, sharing stories behind their most popular labels.

Te Mata Estate: A Historic Gem

Next, a short drive takes you to Te Mata Estate, New Zealand’s second-oldest winery. This visit provides a glimpse into the region’s history and legacy, with a tasting session that lasts about 30 minutes. Guests often find this spot particularly charming due to its legacy of quality and its flagship wine, Coleraine—a legend among local wines.

Guests frequently comment on the atmospheric winery setting and the insightful commentary from staff. One reviewer appreciated the “expert guidance that made each wine’s story come alive,” which helped add context and appreciation for the region’s winemaking heritage.

Sampling Hawke’s Bay’s Finest at Te Mata Figs

Midway through, the tour takes a delightful detour to Te Mata Figs, a local producer specializing in artisan fig products. The two-hour visit includes a tour of the fig groves, a chance to learn about artisan fig processing, and a relaxed lunch platter at the Figgery Café.

Guests love the opportunity for hands-on experience and the chance to taste fresh figs and local delicacies. The lunch is described as generous and tasty, often with guests commenting on the delicious fig-based treats and the chance to chat with the owner about the figs’ journey from orchard to plate.

Optional Honey Tasting at Arataki

Though optional, a quick stop at Arataki Honey is included, where you can sample up to 10 different honey varieties and learn about beekeeping. For honey enthusiasts, this is a sweet addition, providing a unique perspective on New Zealand’s renowned honey industry. Several reviewers have found this insight fascinating, noting the quality and diversity of the honey tasting.

Final Stop at Clearview Estate

The tour wraps up at Clearview Estate, famous for its Chardonnay and scenic vineyard setting. Here, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive tasting, a guided tour of the vineyards, and a chance to see the winemaking process first-hand.

Guests appreciate the generous tasting session and the beautiful vineyard views, making this a fitting finale. The informative guides at Clearview often receive praise for their ability to balance technical details with approachable storytelling.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in luxury Mercedes Benz vehicles ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, especially important given the full six-hour duration. With air-conditioning, WiFi, and phone chargers, the journey is as enjoyable as the stops. The small group size (up to 11 travelers) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd and can have more one-on-one interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

Timing and Pacing

The itinerary is well-paced, with about an hour at Pask, half an hour at Te Mata, two hours at Te Mata Figs, and nearly an hour and a half at Clearview. The optional honey stop is brief but offers a nice break in the day. The start time of 10:00 am allows for a relaxed morning, avoiding rushed sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $165.88 per person, this tour packs in a lot. You’re getting multiple tastings of premium wines, a local produce experience, lunch, and comfortable transportation — all guided by experts. When you consider that some wineries charge for tastings alone, the overall value becomes clearer.

Unique Experiences

Many guests appreciate behind-the-scenes access at Clearview and the chance to see how the wines are made, making it more than just a tasting tour. The visit to Te Mata Figs is a particularly authentic regional experience that supports local artisans.

Authentic Traveler Insights from Reviews

One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guides for making each stop informative and enjoyable, stating, “they shared stories behind their wines that made the tasting even better.” Another mentioned the delicious wine selection and described the lunch platter as “more than enough food and really tasty,” highlighting the tour’s focus on quality and regional produce.

While one review raised a concern about the registration process, noting it’s listed under a sole trader rather than a company, this doesn’t impact the quality but might be worth noting for travelers seeking official accreditation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience shines for wine lovers keen to explore Hawke’s Bay’s renowned vineyards with guidance and context. It’s perfect for foodies interested in local produce and artisans. The small group setting and luxury transport make it suitable for those seeking a relaxed, intimate, and informative day out. If you’re after a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s best wines, paired with regional flavors and scenic views, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Hawkes Bay Wine & Local Producers Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience New Zealand’s prime wine region. It combines premium tastings, local artisan experiences, and scenic vineyard visits with the comfort of luxury transport and expert guides. While the cost may be on the higher side, the quality of tastings, the authenticity of local visits, and the thoughtful itinerary make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a curated, hassle-free day.

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and travelers who value guided experiences, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Hawke’s Bay’s wine legacy and regional bounty.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the original meeting point.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a luxury Mercedes Benz vehicle, with WiFi and cellphone chargers on board.

Are tastings included?
Absolutely. The tour includes wine tastings at Pask Winery, Te Mata Estate, and Clearview Estate, plus a honey tasting at Arataki if you choose.

What about meal options?
A shared fig platter lunch at the Figgery Café is included, with the option to purchase more from the menu.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary needs aren’t detailed, the included lunch is a shared platter, and special requests should be discussed with the tour provider beforehand.

Is this suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While mainly geared toward adults, children and non-drinkers can participate, especially in the produce and orchard visits, but they won’t be sampling wine.

This tour is a fantastic way to soak up Hawke’s Bay’s wine culture, indulge in local flavors, and enjoy scenic views, all with the guidance of passionate experts. Whether you’re a serious wine connoisseur or a curious traveler, it’s a day worth savoring.