Jade Carving, Honey & Wine Tasting Private Tour

Our review of this private day trip to Matakana offers a taste of New Zealand’s vibrant local arts, flavors, and scenery—all in just under 9 hours. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it delivers a well-rounded experience that combines creativity, relaxation, and genuine insight into the region’s artisan culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk through the stunning Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, where contemporary artworks blend seamlessly with native bush and vineyards. Second, the opportunity for personalized jade carving, creating a meaningful souvenir with guidance from a local artist. Third, the selection of local wines and delicious food in a suspended glasshouse restaurant offers a relaxing culinary highlight.

However, one thing to consider is that the price point of $855 per person reflects a premium experience, which might seem steep for some, but many would argue it’s justified by the quality and variety of activities. This tour is ideal for travelers who crave authentic, artisanal experiences, and who don’t mind a full, immersive day exploring New Zealand’s countryside and creative spirit.

Key Points

• Authentic Art and Nature: A walk through the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail combines outdoor art with native bush, offering peaceful scenery and impressive sculptures.
• Creative Hands-On Experience: The jade carving session is a rare opportunity to craft a personal necklace with expert guidance.
• Gourmet Food & Wine: Enjoy top-rated wines and a scenic lunch in a glasshouse restaurant overlooking vineyards.
• Local Art & Crafts: Matakana Village’s boutique shops reveal artisan treasures and handcrafted goods.
• Educational Honey & Nature Walk: Honey tastings paired with native bush walks teach about local flora and the importance of bees.
• Private & Flexible: The tour offers private transportation, WiFi, and a personalized experience tailored to your group.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Scenic Drive to Matakana & Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

Starting at 9 am, your day begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned drive from Auckland—something that travelers often praise for making the transition from cityscape to countryside smooth and stress-free. The highlight here is the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, a 2 km outdoor walk set amid native bush and vineyards. The trail features over 60 contemporary sculptures, many by New Zealand artists, and offers the chance to view art in a natural setting.

One reviewer mentioned, “Beautiful adventure start to finish,” highlighting the seamless blend of art and nature. Visitors can appreciate the thoughtful integration of art within the landscape, creating a peaceful environment perfect for photography and reflection. The onsite restaurant, The Glass House, offers seasonal food and wine overlooking a tranquil lake—ideal for a leisurely stop to soak in the views and perhaps sample some local vintages.

Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Suspended Glasshouse

The next stop is the matakana region’s renowned wineries. Here, you’ll indulge in a relaxed wine tasting session featuring some of the area’s best wines, with many reviews emphasizing the quality and variety. The lunch takes place in a suspended glasshouse restaurant, a setting that impresses with its panoramic views of vineyards and gardens.

Many travelers have expressed delight at the delicious food and excellent wine selection, noting that the atmosphere adds a special touch to the meal. This is not just a tasting but an experience—pairing local flavors with scenic vistas. The restaurant’s location also offers a picture-perfect backdrop for photos and relaxation away from the busier tourist spots.

Exploring Matakana Village & Artisan Shopping

Following lunch, your stroll through Matakana Village’s boutique shops reveals a treasure trove of artisan crafts, local produce, and handcrafted souvenirs. Many visitors find this part of the tour charming, appreciating the chance to pick up unique gifts or local delicacies. It’s a laid-back moment to browse at your own pace and enjoy the local vibe.

Jade Carving with a Local Artist

One of the tour’s standout features is the hands-on Pounamu (Jade) carving session. Guided by a local artist, you’ll learn about the significance of jade in Māori culture and craft your own necklace. The process is described as insightful and engaging, with many reviewers stating they left with a handcrafted keepsake and a deeper appreciation of Māori artisan traditions.

A reviewer happily shared, “Joining the jade carving was beyond lovely; I created a necklace I’ll treasure forever,” underscoring the personal and cultural value of this activity. The experience is suitable for those interested in art, culture, and crafting their own memento.

Honey Tasting & Nature Walk

The final part of the day involves a honey tasting and native bush walk, where you’ll learn about New Zealand’s native plants and the vital role bees play in the ecosystem. The honey tasting is often described as educational and delicious, with guests gaining insights into local flora and beekeeping practices.

Many reviews note the educational aspect, adding a layer of understanding about sustainability and native plants. The nature walk offers a gentle end to your day, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty.

Returning to Auckland

The tour concludes approximately at 6 pm, with a return journey to Auckland. Many travelers appreciate the private transportation, making the whole experience seamless and comfortable. The inclusion of WiFi on board and bottled water adds to the overall convenience.

What the Price Gets You – Is It Worth It?

At $855.17 per person, this tour is a premium offering that includes a full day of curated activities, private transport, guided experiences, and meals. When you consider the value of personalized guidance, quality artisan experiences, and scenic stops, many would say it’s a worthwhile investment for those wanting an immersive, culturally rich day outside the city.

Compared to typical day trips, this tour offers a combination of art, culture, and gastronomy that’s often hard to find in one package. The included entry tickets and guided tours ensure you won’t need to worry about logistics or extra costs—making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

Authenticity & Local Insight

One of the standout points from reviews was the knowledgeable guides, with a particular mention of Andy, who was described as “outstanding.” These guides add depth to the experience, sharing local stories and insider tips that elevate a simple tour into a memorable journey.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is ideal for adults and those interested in artisanal crafts and local food and drink, it’s worth noting that the minimum age for wine tasting is 18. Vegetarian options are available, and the tour can accommodate specific dietary needs when booked in advance.

Since the experience is private, it’s tailored to your group, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small family groups. The tour operates with a minimum of two people, so larger groups or solo travelers should check availability accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for culture lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies seeking an upscale, authentic taste of New Zealand outside of Auckland. If you enjoy crafting your own souvenirs, sampling top local wines, and learning about native plants and Māori culture, this tour ticks many boxes.

It also suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, personalized experience rather than large group tours. The combination of scenic landscapes, artisanal activities, and gourmet food makes it suitable for those wanting a well-rounded, relaxing day that feels both immersive and indulgent.

The Sum Up

The Jade Carving, Honey & Wine Tasting Private Tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of artistry, gastronomy, and nature, making it an excellent choice for those looking to delve a little deeper into New Zealand’s local culture and scenic beauty. The private setting, expert guides, and unique activities like jade carving make it stand out from more generic day trips.

If you’re interested in discovering authentic Kiwi craftsmanship, sampling top wines in a stunning setting, and creating your own piece of art to take home, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s best suited for curious travelers who value quality, personalization, and meaningful experiences.

While it commands a premium price, many find the variety and depth of the activities justify the cost—especially when considering the inclusion of private transport, guided experiences, and meals. For a day that combines scenic beauty, artistic expression, and local flavors, this tour truly offers a memorable slice of New Zealand’s culture.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, pickup is available, making the day hassle-free from your accommodation or designated meeting point.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs for approximately 9 hours, from 9 am to around 6 pm.

What is included in the price? The tour includes private transportation, WiFi on board, all entry tickets, guided tours, wine and honey tastings, lunch, and a jade carving session.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol? Yes, the tour is suitable for all, but note that wine tasting is only for those 18 and over. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Is this tour suitable for children? Children must be accompanied by an adult, and since wine tasting requires 18+, it’s best suited for adult travelers.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation? An air-conditioned private vehicle is provided, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Are there any physical demands? The activities involve walking and light participation—no strenuous exertion is required, but comfortable footwear is recommended.

What happens in case of bad weather? The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How personalized is the experience? As a private tour, it’s tailored to your group’s interests and pace, with flexible stops and activities.

Can I customize this tour? While the itinerary is set, the private nature allows for some customization—just check with the provider in advance.

This private tour combines quality, authenticity, and scenic beauty in a way that’s hard to match. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from Auckland’s bustle, it’s an experience that promises memorable moments and a genuine taste of New Zealand.