Which Auckland Wine Tours To Choose? Our Best 14 Picks

Auckland’s reputation as New Zealand’s biggest city might overshadow its world-class wine scene. Yet, its proximity to lush vineyards, stunning coastlines, and vibrant small wineries makes it an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re craving a relaxed day sampling boutique wines on Waiheke Island or exploring rugged West Auckland’s volcanic landscapes and rainforests, Auckland offers a diverse array of wine tours. We particularly like the Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue for its combination of scenic vineyard visits and a beachfront lunch—an authentic taste of the island’s finesse. Plus, the chance to enjoy Waiheke’s famous wines in a setting that combines natural beauty with gourmet dining makes it a standout experience.

While Auckland’s wine tours range from luxury full-day excursions to intimate small-group tastings, each offers a different way to explore New Zealand’s wine country. Whether you want a quick half-day trip, a gourmet-focused food and wine experience, or an adventurous rainforest vineyard visit, there’s something to match your interests. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of the top tours to help you decide which suits your style and schedule.

1. Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch at Award Winning Venue

At number 1, this Waiheke Island wine tour combines visits to three of Waiheke’s renowned vineyards with a relaxing lunch at an award-winning beachfront restaurant. The tour runs for 5 hours with a fully guided experience led by a local Waiheke Kiwi guide, ensuring you get insider stories about the island’s wine and scenery. The itinerary includes tastings in Onetangi Valley, often described as the heart of Waiheke’s wine scene, with enough time to admire the stunning coastal views. The highlight is lunch at a beachfront venue right by Onetangi Beach, offering fresh local produce and a glass of wine to match.

Reviewers praise its friendly guides and comfortable transport, and with 4.8 stars from 474 reviews, it’s also highly rated for its relaxed, authentic vibe. The tour’s small-group format makes it perfect for those wanting a personalized experience without the crowds. The only caveat is that it takes place rain or shine, so a little rain won’t spoil your day. Great for couples, first-timers, or anyone craving a scenic wine day with a side of beachside dining.

Bottom Line: A balanced and well-rated choice for scenic vineyard visits paired with a memorable beachfront lunch.

2. Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch

For those who really want to indulge in Waiheke’s gourmet food and wine scene, this Gourmet Food and Wine Tour delivers a feast for the senses. Over five hours, you’ll sample fresh oysters from Te Matuku Bay, taste locally-produced olive oils, and visit three boutique vineyards. Each stop combines wine tastings with regional specialties, culminating in a family-style lunch overlooking the vines. The tour emphasizes learning about Waiheke’s culinary culture with plenty of opportunities to enjoy both the food and the scenery.

Rated 4.9/5 from 267 reviews, guests love the informative guides and the chance to sample top-quality wines and local produce in an intimate setting. It’s ideal for foodies and wine lovers who want a comprehensive taste of Waiheke’s gourmet offerings. The only downside might be that it’s a bit more focused on the food than purely wine, but that’s part of its charm.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full sensory experience combining local delicacies with boutique wines in a relaxed, friendly environment.

3. Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour from Auckland

At number 3, this Piha Rainforest Wine Tour takes you into Auckland’s rural West for a full-day adventure. It’s ideal for those who want to explore beyond the city, with visits to two distinguished wineries—Soljans Estate and Westbrook Winery—plus the stunning volcanic sands and native rainforest of Piha Beach. The tour includes wine tastings and a one-course lunch, with personalized attention in a small-group setting.

Guests appreciate the diverse experiences, from walking along Piha’s iconic black sands to sampling Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, and more. The guide’s passion and local knowledge, combined with visits to historic family-run wineries, make this a well-rounded day. The 5-star reviews highlight the blend of nature, history, and wine, perfect for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity and wine tasting.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for lovers of nature, beaches, and small, family-owned wineries.

4. Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour from Auckland

For approximately $114, this Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour offers a shorter, budget-friendly escape to Auckland’s wild west coast. The tour visits Muriwai, famed for its volcanic sands and gannet colony, along with two family-operated wineries—Soljans Estate and Westbrook Winery. The journey includes wine tastings and a walk along the striking black sands, with the chance to see native wildlife.

Rated a perfect 5 out of 5 by 118 reviews, visitors love the balance of scenery and wine, with many mentioning the friendly host and scenic stops. The small-group size means more personalized attention, and the tour’s timing makes it easy to fit into a half-day schedule. Be prepared for some outdoor walking, and weather can influence the experience, but overall, it’s a great value.

Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a mix of coastal scenery and boutique wines.

5. Waiheke Island: Scenic Island Wine Tour & Local Wine Tasting

This Scenic Island Wine Tour offers a more relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Waiheke’s renowned vineyards over 4-5 hours. Traveling by bus or double-decker, it stops at four villages and includes tastings at three boutique vineyards. An added highlight is the stop at Thomas Batch Vineyard, offering breathtaking views and a chance to relax over lunch.

Rated 4.7/5 from 212 reviews, travelers praise the local guides and the chance to experience Waiheke’s diverse landscapes—from beaches to vineyards. The tour caters well to those seeking a comprehensive, scenic day with plenty of wine. The flexible length allows for customization, making it suitable for a leisurely day.

Bottom Line: A solid pick for those wanting to see Waiheke’s varied scenery along with sampling its best wines.

6. Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour

Known as the island of wine, this The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour emphasizes quality over quantity. You visit three boutique vineyards with a local guide, learning about the wines and their unique characteristics. The tour concludes with a lunch and glass of wine at an award-winning restaurant.

Rated 4.8/5 from 123 reviews, guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to immerse in Waiheke’s wine culture. With 25 years of experience, the guide’s insights bring a personal touch to the tasting experience. It’s perfect for visitors who want an authentic, relaxed wine experience with a side of gourmet dining.

Bottom Line: Best suited for wine enthusiasts seeking an intimate, educational tour with a high-quality lunch.

7. Small-Group Kumeu Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch

This Kumeu Wine Country Tour offers a personalized experience with visits to three family-run wineries, including Soljans and Coopers Creek. The tour includes guided tastings, a delicious lunch at Soljans Winery, and round-trip hotel pickup. It’s a 5-hour, intimate experience limited to 14 travelers, making it perfect for those who prefer a small-group setting.

Guests love the expert guidance and the opportunity to learn about local varietals like Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the excellent value, with some saying it’s ideal for wine lovers who want a deep dive into the Kumeu region.

Bottom Line: Excellent choice for small groups wanting a relaxed, educational experience with tastings and lunch.

8. Kumeu Wine Tour

Leading into the classic wine country experience, this Kumeu Wine Tour emphasizes personalized visits to three renowned wineries, including Soljans and Westbrook. The tour includes lunch and tastings, with guests sampling specific varietals like Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. The itinerary allows for plenty of tasting time and is ideal for those who want a comprehensive day in the region.

Rated 5.0/5 from 63 reviews, travelers highlight the friendly guides, beautiful wineries, and the good value for a half-day or full-day experience. It’s well-suited for couples or small groups interested in deliberate wine tasting and local winery charm.

Bottom Line: A reliable, in-depth wine tour—perfect for wine lovers eager to explore Kumeu’s famous wineries.

9. From Auckland: Waiheke Island Wine Cellar Tour

This Waiheke Island Wine Cellar Tour strikes a friendly balance between relaxation and exploration. Over 6 hours, you’ll visit three boutique vineyards and enjoy a curated lunch. The emphasis is on VIP treatment—all vineyard stops are pre-booked, with no queues, and the guide offers insightful commentary.

Rated 4.8/5 from 73 reviews, travelers praise the seamless experience and quality wines, making it an ideal choice for visitors who want a smooth, in-depth taste of Waiheke’s wine scene. The tour is perfect for those who prefer a less hurried, more personal experience.

Bottom Line: Suitable for wine connoisseurs and those seeking a VIP experience with premium tastings.

10. Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch

For those who want to truly immerse themselves, this Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour includes four wineries and a three-course lunch. It’s a well-rounded day, with everything taken care of, from transport to tastings and meals. The tour visits West Auckland’s famed Kumeu wine trail, with stops at The Hunting Lodge, Soljans, and Westbrook wineries.

Rated 5.0/5 with just 31 reviews, it’s praised for the comprehensive itinerary and good value for a full-day experience. It’s suited for those who want to cover a lot of ground and enjoy a delicious meal along the way.

Bottom Line: Best for wine lovers who want a full, guided day with a mix of tastings and a gourmet lunch.

11. Waiheke: Scenic Taste and Graze Tour with Wine, Whisky, Beer

This Scenic Taste and Graze Tour offers a multi-drink experience—wine, whisky, and beer—paired with scenic views. Over 5 hours, you’ll visit four locations, including Mudbrick Vineyard, where you’ll enjoy a platter lunch at one of Waiheke’s iconic vineyards.

Guests love the generous tasting portions, the informative guides, and the variety—it’s perfect for those wanting multiple drink options in a single day. The tour’s lively pace is great for adventurous spirits eager to sample more than just wine.

Bottom Line: Great for diverse drinkers who want a lively, scenic day sampling NZ wines, whisky, and beer.

12. Kumeu Wine Region Shuttle from Auckland

This Kumeu Wine Region Shuttle offers a cost-effective way to explore three top wineries, including Villa Maria, The Hunting Lodge, and Westbrook. The 4.5-hour tour includes transport and tastings, making it perfect for budget travelers or those who prefer to sit back and enjoy.

Rated 4.5/5 from 19 reviews, travelers appreciate the easy logistics and friendly guides. It’s a good fit for casual wine lovers who want a straightforward, no-fuss experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent value for a relaxed, guided visit to Auckland’s famous wine region.

13. Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch

This City & Wine Tour combines Auckland’s sights with a full-day wine experience. It features city highlights, a scenic drive, visits to three wineries, and a delicious vineyard lunch. Plus, a visit to the Muriwai gannet colony rounds out the day.

Rated 5.0/5 from 19 reviews, it’s praised for well-organized logistics and insightful guides. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full-day immersion into Auckland’s culture, scenery, and wine.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an all-in-one day out combining sightseeing and wine.

14. Auckland Coastal Experience – Small Group City & Beach Tour Incl. Wine Tasting

Our final choice, the Auckland Coastal Experience, is an 8-hour coastal journey from city to surf and vineyards. It visits black sand beaches like Muriwai, offers guided wine tastings at a local vineyard, and showcases views from multiple Auckland viewpoints. Small-group size (up to 11 people) ensures a personalized, relaxed experience.

Rated 5.0/5 from 10 reviews, it’s well suited for those wanting a comprehensive coastal and wine experience with less crowding.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a coastal adventure combined with wine tasting in an intimate setting.

How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Auckland

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, time availability, and what interests you most. If you love gourmet food and boutique wines, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour offers a delicious mix. For a nature lover, the Piha Rainforest Tour combines rugged scenery with wine. If a luxury or VIP experience appeals, the Waiheke Cellar Tour provides pre-arranged tastings and a relaxed pace.

Think about fitness level — some tours involve walking along beaches or through vineyards, so check the itinerary if mobility is a concern. Book early, especially for popular times like summer or weekends, and consider whether a half-day or full-day trip** suits your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Auckland’s wine tours offer a fantastic way to experience New Zealand’s best vineyards, stunning scenery, and local cuisine. Whether you prefer the island charm of Waiheke, the rainforest ruggedness of Piha, or the historic boutique wineries of Kumeu, there’s an option for every wine lover and adventurous traveler. For a well-rounded day, the Full-Day Auckland Wine Tour is unbeatable for variety and value. The Waiheke Island: Wine Tour & Lunch remains a favorite for its scenic beauty and gourmet lunch.

Plan ahead and secure your spot early, especially if you want to enjoy Auckland’s best wine experiences in peak season. With so many options, it’s just a matter of choosing your adventure—cheers!