Auckland: Double Decker City Tour with Wine Tastings & Food

Taking in Auckland’s sights from a classic London double-decker bus sounds charming enough, but combine that with wine tastings and local food, and you have a truly memorable experience. While we haven’t personally done this tour, it’s clear that this unique combination offers a relaxed way to see the city, learn about New Zealand’s wine industry, and indulge in some delicious bites along the way.

What we love about this experience? First, the stunning views from the bus, especially the scenic stops like Savage Memorial and the Harbour Bridge. Second, the expert guidance of the onboard sommelier, who makes the wine tasting educational yet approachable. Third, the variety of stops, from city highlights to charming beaches, adding a sense of adventure. The only potential downside? It’s a somewhat structured tour, so if you prefer complete independence, this might feel a bit guided. Still, if you’re after a mix of sightseeing, education, and indulgence, this tour fits the bill—perfect for wine lovers, first-time visitors, or those wanting a stylish look at Auckland’s best.

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Key Points

Unique double-decker bus experience blending city sights with wine tastings.
Expert guidance from a knowledgeable sommelier makes wine education accessible.
Beautiful scenic stops including Savage Memorial, Wintergardens, and Harbour Bridge.
Inclusion of local foods like charcuterie boards enhances the tasting experience.
Flexible booking options with pay-later reservations and full refunds for cancellations.
Not suitable for children or wheelchair users, focusing on adult enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary and Experiences

The Double Decker City Tour offers a delightful way to explore Auckland’s highlights from the comfort of a luxurious, vintage London-style bus. The experience starts with a warm welcome—guests are greeted with a glass of sparkling wine upon arrival, setting a festive tone right from the start. That initial sip, paired with the elegant surroundings, hints at the classy yet relaxed journey that awaits.

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Starting with Waiheke Island Sparkling

The journey begins with a welcome glass of Waiheke’s sparkling wine, giving you a taste of the island’s reputed bubbly. This sets the scene for the day—luxury, local flavors, and scenic vistas.

City Highlights & Scenic Views

As the bus departs Auckland CBD, you’ll enjoy stories from the onboard guide about the city’s history and culture, along with stunning views of key landmarks. The Savage Memorial offers panoramic vistas over the Hauraki Gulf, a perfect spot for photos and soaking in Auckland’s coastal beauty. Moving along, the tour passes through vibrant neighborhoods such as Mission Bay, with its lively beach scene, and around the historic Holy Trinity Cathedral.

The Auckland War Memorial Museum, seen from the bus, is one of the city’s most iconic buildings, and the short 20-minute stop at Wintergardens allows you to stretch your legs amid lush greenery and glasshouses, adding a peaceful pause to the tour. During this segment, you’ll enjoy a glass of rosé, further elevating the experience.

Crossing the Harbour and Beachside Charm

Next, the bus crosses the Auckland Harbour Bridge, offering striking views of the harbor and the skyline, a moment that travelers frequently mention as a highlight. Afterward, the charming suburb of Takapuna beckons for a coffee or an ice cream at the beautiful Takapuna Beach Café, giving you a taste of local seaside leisure.

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Wine Tasting & Food Pairings at Every Turn

Throughout the drive, the onboard sommelier guides guests through tasting NZ’s top wines—each paired with a delicious charcuterie board that complements the flavors perfectly. The Chardonnay, Syrah, and Montepulciano are not only served to enjoy but are also presented with insights into their origins and characteristics.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the wines, with comments like “the wines were truly enjoyable, and the sommelier was very knowledgeable.” The tasting experience isn’t rushed—it’s balanced with time to appreciate each glass and the accompanying bites.

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Scenic Drive to Takapuna & Back

After a brief stop in Takapuna, the bus heads back along the harbor front, with more wine pours—this time a refreshing rosé and a final glass of Montepulciano. The route offers plenty of opportunities for photos and enjoying Auckland’s waterfront scenery, with many reviewers mentioning the stunning views and relaxed pace.

Ending Back in the City

The tour concludes back in Auckland CBD, delivering a complete circle of the city’s sights, flavors, and stories. The total duration, typically around 3-4 hours, delivers plenty of value without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions:

All wine tastings, guided by a knowledgeable sommelier, ensure you learn about NZ wines in a relaxed setting.
A delicious charcuterie board adds a savory element, making the tasting more substantial.
Stops at scenic spots like Wintergardens and Takapuna bring variety to the day.
Coffee or ice cream at Takapuna Beach Café offers a sweet, cooling break.

However, it’s worth noting that:

Extra drinks beyond those served on the bus aren’t included.
Any additional food or snacks outside those provided are at your own expense.
Not suitable for children or those with mobility challenges, due to the nature of the bus and adult-focused wine tastings.

Practical Details

The meeting point outside the Movenpick Hotel is easy to find, and the tour starts promptly at 10am or 1:30pm, giving flexibility to fit your schedule. Bring comfortable shoes and a camera—this tour is as much about the views and photo ops as it is about the wines.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore New Zealand wines without leaving the city. It also suits travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, educational tasting session. If you enjoy scenic drives, charming neighborhoods, and delicious local foods, you’ll find this tour a delightful way to spend a few hours in Auckland.

It’s less ideal for families with young children or those with mobility issues since the focus is on adult beverages and some walking stops. However, for couples, solo travelers, or small groups seeking a blend of culture, scenery, and culinary indulgence, it offers real value.

Final Thoughts

This Auckland Double Decker City Tour with Wine Tastings & Food provides a unique way to see the city from a different perspective. The combination of beautiful vistas, top-quality wines, and local bites makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy Auckland’s scenery while learning about and tasting its wine culture in a comfortable, stylish setting.

While it’s a guided tour, the relaxed pace and scenic stops give you plenty of room to breathe and take photos. The knowledgeable sommelier makes the wine part engaging without feeling intimidating, and the focus on local flavors helps you connect more deeply with New Zealand’s rich wine scene. The inclusion of a charcuterie board and stops at iconic spots like Takapuna Beach add layers of enjoyment.

In summary, if you’re looking for a memorable, adult-focused activity that combines sightseeing, wine, and food in Auckland, this tour is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is tailored for adults, focusing on wine tastings and adult beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 3-4 hours, providing ample time for sightseeing, tastings, and stops.

Can I book this tour at the last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and water to stay hydrated are recommended. Water is also available on the bus.

Are the wine tastings included?
Yes, all wine tastings are included, guided by a professional sommelier.

Is the bus accessible for wheelchairs?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the transportation.

Can I buy extra drinks on the bus?
Extra drinks beyond the tastings are not included and may need to be purchased separately.

What’s the dress code?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised; casual attire is suitable unless you prefer a more dressed-up look for the scenic stops.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet outside the Movenpick Hotel at 10am or 1:30pm for the respective tours—easy to find and centrally located.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a first-time visitor, or simply in search of a stylish way to explore Auckland, this double-decker tour offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, local flavors, and scenic beauty.