Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Queenstown

Visiting Queenstown and exploring its surrounding wine regions can be overwhelming when you think about driving, planning, and trying to make the most of a day. That’s where the Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Queenstown steps in as a fantastic way to enjoy the best of Otago’s vineyards, scenic spots, and local attractions—all without the stress of navigating or staying sober.

From the moment we started reviewing this tour, three things immediately caught our attention: the flexibility of the schedule, the variety of stops, and the expert commentary provided by friendly drivers. The price point—around $60 per person—seems very reasonable considering the broad range of experiences packed into roughly 5 to 7 hours.

However, keep in mind that this tour operates on a one-way route, which means you need to plan your stops carefully if you want to maximize your time at each location. This setup might not be ideal for those who prefer a looped or more comprehensive sightseeing experience. Still, if you’re keen on sampling wine, enjoying some adventure, or exploring Arrowtown, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want flexibility, a mix of wine tasting and sightseeing, and a hassle-free way to explore Queenstown’s surrounding hotspots. If you’re okay with a structured schedule but love the freedom to choose your stops, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule with buses every 45 minutes allowing you to customize your day.
• Wide range of stops, from wineries and breweries to adventure spots and charming villages.
• Knowledgeable drivers who provide entertaining commentary and helpful advice.
• All-inclusive pricing with wine tastings waived when purchasing bottles, plus discounts.
• Ideal for those who prefer not to drive or want to sample multiple venues in one day.
• One-way operation means planning and timing are essential to optimize your experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Convenience of a Hop-On, Hop-Off Format

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the flexibility it offers. Instead of sticking to a rigid itinerary, you can choose how long to stay at each stop, whether that’s a quick look, a leisurely lunch, or a full tasting session. Buses run every 45 minutes, so you don’t have to wait long to hop on to your next destination. Reviewers often mention how efficient and well-timed the service is, with drivers like George and Pete earning high praise for their helpfulness and lively commentary.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at The Station in Queenstown, located conveniently at the corner of Shotover & Camp Streets. The meeting point is accessible via public transport, which is ideal for travelers arriving by bus or train. The tour ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day around the schedule.

The vehicles are air-conditioned, adding comfort during what can be a warm summer day or chilly winter outing. The tour is capped at a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience—no crowded buses here.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The stops are thoughtfully curated, mixing adventure, history, wineries, and local eateries. Let’s walk through some highlights:

Shotover Jet Queenstown

You’ll start your adventure with the famous jet boat ride on the Shotover River. According to reviews, this is “the ultimate jet boat experience,” offering spectacular views of the canyon and adrenaline-pumping fun. The ticket is free with the booking, but the activity itself is an optional add-on, not included in the main tour fee. This is perfect if you want a quick burst of adventure before wine tasting.

Canyon Brewing and Arrowtown

Overlooking the Shotover River, Canyon Brewing crafts award-winning beers in a relaxed microbrewery setting. Though it’s closed Mondays and Tuesdays, many reviewers loved sampling their unique brews with a scenic view. Afterward, a short ride takes you to Arrowtown, a historic gold-mining village where you can walk through charming streets, visit the Lakes District Museum, or explore the Chinese Settlement. Many found Arrowtown to be a relaxing spot to enjoy lunch or a stroll at their own pace.

Wineries and Tasting Rooms

The core of the tour involves visiting several wineries and tasting rooms, such as The Winery in Arrowtown, Rifters’ Tasting Room, Swiftsure, Ayrburn, Mora Wines, Amisfield Cellar Door, Nockie’s Palette, Gibbston Valley Winery, and others. The waiving of tasting fees when you buy wine is a generous benefit, adding great value to the experience. You’ll typically get about 10 minutes at each venue, enough to sample some wines, enjoy the atmosphere, and perhaps purchase a bottle or two to be stored on the bus.

From the reviews, visitors frequently praised the friendly and knowledgeable staff, describing the tasting rooms as welcoming and confident in their craft. Ayrburn, for instance, offers wine flights and food options like breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it a flexible stop.

Adventure and Entertainment Options

For those seeking more than wine, the tour includes stops like AJ Hackett Bungy—home to the world’s first Bungy Jump—and Strike Bowl for ten-pin bowling. These stops add a splash of fun and adrenaline to the day, appealing to both thrill-seekers and casual travelers alike.

The Drivers and Commentary

Reviewers consistently mention the driver George, noting his “fantastic,” “helpful,” and “informative” attitude. The drivers aren’t just behind the wheel—they’re also your guides, providing insights about the regions, vineyards, and local history. Their engaging commentary makes the journey more than just transportation; it’s part of the experience.

Pricing and Value

The tour costs approximately $60.68 per person, which, considering the range of stops, flexibility, and included discounts, offers excellent value. There’s no charge for tastings if you purchase wine, and many venues waive tasting fees when buying bottles, so your out-of-pocket expenses can be quite minimal. Plus, the air-conditioned transport and the small group size mean comfort and intimacy, not to mention the chance to make new friends.

Real Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews highlight how seamless and enjoyable the experience is. For example, one guest states, “The bus was on time! Nice way to see the wine region without worrying about drinking and driving.” Others appreciate the helpful advice from drivers and the ability to plan your stops ahead for maximum enjoyment. Some mention that only about four stops can be comfortably fitted into a day, so planning is key to optimize your time.

Possible Drawbacks

A few travelers pointed out that the one-way route requires careful planning—if you want to visit multiple wineries or attractions, you need to manage your timing accordingly. Also, since the tour doesn’t include lunch, you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan meals at your stops. Weather can also impact the experience, especially outdoor tastings or activities, but the company offers the option to reschedule or get a full refund if canceled due to poor weather.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Wine lovers and foodies will find the wide selection of wineries and tastings appealing, especially with the added bonus of discounted or waived fees. Those who enjoy scenic drives and charming towns like Arrowtown will appreciate the relaxed pace. Adventure enthusiasts can also benefit from the optional activities like bungy jumping or jet boating.

If you prefer a structured, all-inclusive tour, this might feel a bit loose—since it’s flexible and depends on your timing. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of planning, you’ll likely find this tour delivers a rewarding balance of tasting, sightseeing, and fun.

The Sum Up

The Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Queenstown offers an authentic, flexible way to explore Otago’s wine country without the hassle of driving. The combination of knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and scenic stops makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a laid-back yet engaging day. The affordability and small group size add to its appeal, especially for those keen on customizing their experience.

While it requires some planning due to its one-way setup, most guests find the schedule and routes work well—particularly with the helpful driver commentary guiding the way. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and anyone who wants to see a good mix of Queenstown’s outskirts without spending a fortune.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic taste of Otago’s wines and scenery with plenty of opportunities to relax and explore at your own pace, this tour hits the spot—just remember to plan your stops wisely.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but activities like bungy jumping are for adults. The bus and tasting stops are family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
It typically runs for about 5 to 7 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and your chosen schedule.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for popular venues like Ayrburn, Mora Wines, and Amisfield. The tour itself is booked in advance, and certain stops require reservations.

Can I bring wine back on the bus?
Yes, wine purchased at the wineries is stored on the bus, making it easy to transport your finds home.

Are tastings included in the price?
Tastings are waived if you buy wine, and some venues waive the fee with a purchase. The tour price mainly covers transportation and the driver’s commentary.

What if the weather is bad?
The company offers full refunds or rescheduling if poor weather cancels the tour. Outdoor activities may be affected but most stops are indoors or sheltered.

In essence, this tour combines the best of Queenstown’s vineyards, local charm, and adventure, all wrapped into one flexible and enjoyable package. Perfect for those who want to taste, see, and explore without the stress of planning every detail.