Auckland City Scenic Tour with Wine Tasting + Lunch

Discover Auckland’s Vineyards and Scenic Highlights in One Excursion

If you’re looking to pair a taste of Auckland’s stunning landscapes with some of New Zealand’s best wines, the Auckland City Scenic Tour with Wine Tasting + Lunch is a fantastic choice. This six-hour experience promises a relaxed yet enriching day traveling across the region’s most beautiful vineyards, with the added bonus of a gourmet lunch and expert-guided wine tastings.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit world-renowned wineries like Kumeu River Wines and explore family-owned vineyards rooted in Croatian heritage. Second, the beautifully curated stops that offer sweeping views of the landscape—think rolling vineyards and lush forest backdrops. Third, the highly praised guides, with many reviewers raving about their knowledge and friendliness.

One possible consideration? The tour’s price point of just over $330 per person might seem steep to some, but many say the experience justifies the cost through quality wine, authentic visits, and memorable scenery.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love wine, appreciate authentic local stories, and want an intimate, well-organized day exploring Auckland’s wine country without the hassle of planning. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in these carefully selected stops.

Key Points

• Includes visits to four notable wineries with tastings at each, including the famous Kumeu River Wines.
• A delicious lunch at Hunting Lodge with a glass of wine, offering seasonal, locally sourced cuisine.
• Expert-guided visits that combine storytelling with wine education, appreciated by many previous guests.
• Stunning scenery with panoramic vineyard views and nearby forested areas.
• Comfortable, private transport with pick-up options, making the day smooth and stress-free.
• Good value for the experience considering the number of wineries visited, food, and expert guidance.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

First Stop: Westbrook Winery

The tour kicks off in West Auckland’s Waimauku at Westbrook Winery, where the Ivicevich family’s story begins. Their journey from Croatia in 1935 to establishing vineyards in New Zealand is woven into this stop, adding a layer of heritage to your tasting experience. Guests rave about the beautiful vineyard views and the chance to taste wines in a setting surrounded by lush greenery.

Previous reviewers like Sandra_U highlighted the excellent wines and stunning scenery, noting that the guide’s storytelling made the visit even more engaging. Expect to spend about an hour here, sampling wines and soaking in the pastoral landscape that makes Auckland’s wine country unique.

Second Stop: The Hunting Lodge Winery & Restaurant

Next, the tour visits The Hunting Lodge, a historic vineyard and restaurant that emphasizes seasonal, local produce and a pasture-to-plate philosophy. Founded in the early days of New Zealand winemaking, it’s famed for producing NZ’s first marketable Sauvignon Blanc in 1974.

Guests often mention the romantic ambiance of this spot, with many enjoying the delicious lunch paired with a glass of wine. The relaxed, rustic setting offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the single-origin, locally sourced ingredients. Judith_M appreciated the friendly guide Maty, who added a touch of fun and knowledge to the experience.

Third Stop: Kumeu River Wines

The crown jewel for many wine lovers is the stop at Kumeu River Wines, renowned for producing some of New Zealand’s best Chardonnays. Here, you get to see the winemaking process, including a tour of the facilities and a walk through the beautiful vineyards.

Michael Brajkovich MW, the rockstar winemaker, is often praised for his craft, and visitors frequently comment on the high-quality wines—some describing them as “world-class.” This stop lasts about an hour and provides a deeper understanding of what makes Kumeu River a standout in the NZ wine scene.

Fourth Stop: Soljans Estate Winery

The final vineyard, Soljans Estate, is one of the oldest in New Zealand, founded in 1937. Its picturesque grounds and renowned wines make for a memorable conclusion. Visitors often find this stop a perfect blend of history, scenery, and top-tier wine tasting, with about an hour allocated for exploring and sampling.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transport and Group Size: The tour offers private transport, making it comfortable and intimate—great for those who prefer personalized experiences. Meeting points are flexible, and pickup is offered, which adds to the convenience.

Duration and Pace: In six hours, you’ll visit four vineyards, enjoy a hearty lunch, and get plenty of wine tasting—without feeling rushed. The timing allows for a relaxed exploration, and the inclusion of transportation means you can indulge without worry.

Guides and Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendly attitude. Our sources mention guides like Caleb, who kept the mood light with good playlists and plenty of information, making the day fun and informative.

Price and Value: Costing around $330, the tour offers visits to some of New Zealand’s most notable vineyards, a sit-down lunch, and multiple tastings. Many guests feel this is good value, especially considering the quality of wines and the memorable scenery.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

A standout feature of this tour is the deep dive into family-owned vineyards with Croatian roots. Westbrook Winery’s story enriches the tasting, giving visitors a sense of connection to the land and tradition. The storytelling adds a layer of authenticity many travelers crave.

Plus, the scenic drive across the Auckland region offers sweeping views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations. The tour’s focus on local, seasonal food at Hunting Lodge is another highlight, especially for foodies keen to taste New Zealand’s seasonal produce.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Day

• Wear comfortable shoes; some vineyards involve walking through uneven terrain.
• Bring your camera; the vistas and vineyard scenes are photo-worthy.
• Arrive early or on time, especially if not opting for pickup, to make the most of each stop.
• The tour is for 18+ due to alcohol consumption; children are not permitted.
• Cancel free up to 24 hours in advance, but note that last-minute changes or cancellations are not accepted within that window.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Auckland’s best vineyards without the hassle of organizing transport or tastings. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups wanting an authentic, relaxed day out surrounded by beautiful scenery and good company.

If you’re interested in learning about the heritage of New Zealand wines, enjoying local cuisine, and discovering stunning vineyard vistas, this tour checks all boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate the stories behind the wine and want a well-rounded, premium experience.

The Sum Up

This Auckland City Scenic Tour with Wine Tasting + Lunch offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances scenic beauty, authentic storytelling, and excellent wine. You’ll visit four diverse vineyards, each with its own charm and history, complemented by a delicious seasonal lunch in a charming setting.

The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and fun. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned sipper, the combination of stunning views, quality wines, and local heritage makes this a memorable outing.

While the price might give some pause, the inclusions—multiple tastings, a sit-down lunch, and private transport—offer good value for those seeking a relaxed, immersive taste of Auckland’s wine country. This tour is best suited for those who love wine, enjoy authentic local stories, and want a stress-free way to explore the region’s scenic vineyards.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides private transport with pickup options, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol? The tour is for 18+ travelers, and alcohol consumption is permitted only for guests aged 18 and over. The main focus is tasting and learning, so non-drinkers might want to enjoy the scenery and food.

How many wineries will I visit? You will visit four vineyards: Westbrook Winery, The Hunting Lodge, Kumeu River Wines, and Soljans Estate.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes tastings at each winery, a glass of wine with lunch, and transportation. Extra drinks or food are at your own cost.

What is the typical group size? It’s a private tour, so your group will be the only participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, including travel time, tastings, and lunch.

Are children allowed? No, children under 18 are not permitted on this tour due to alcohol regulations.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This thoughtfully designed tour blends scenic beauty, rich heritage, and excellent wine in a way that’s approachable for any traveler. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable taste of Auckland’s vineyards, it promises a day full of flavor, stories, and stunning views.