Matakana is a standout destination for wine lovers who want more than just a glass of vino. This charming region on New Zealand’s North Island offers a unique mix of boutique vineyards, creative arts, and gourmet experiences—making it ideal for those seeking authentic flavors and memorable scenery. One of our favorite tours here is the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour, which combines art, wine, and local food into a well-rounded day. Plus, the lively Saturday Farmer’s Market adds a lively local flavor you won’t want to miss.
What makes Matakana so appealing is the diversity of experiences available. Whether it’s sipping boutique wines, exploring sculpture gardens, or enjoying a horseback ride through native bush, there’s a tour for every interest. This guide will walk you through four of the best options, helping you choose the perfect experience based on your interests, schedule, and style.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of day-long tours tailored to different tastes. From the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour, which offers art, food, and wine sampling, to the more adventurous Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail Private Tour, combining horseback riding with winery visits. For those wanting a more personalized experience, the Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine provides scenic countryside riding with gourmet dining. Lastly, the Auckland: Full-Day Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Tour dives into local arts and food for a comprehensive day out.
1. Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour
This tour captures the essence of Matakana’s blend of art, wine, and local food. Starting from Auckland, you’ll enjoy a scenic 6-hour journey that includes a visit to Sculptureum—an art gallery with an impressive international collection. Afterward, you’ll tour boutique vineyards for tastings you won’t forget, with a stop at the lively Matakana Farmer’s Market on Saturdays, where local artisans showcase their produce. The tour also features lunch and a chocolate tasting at an award-winning chocolatier, plus a fun stop for Hokey Pokey Ice Cream.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of art, food, and wine, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed wandering. The guides are knowledgeable about the region’s history and local artisans, making it a well-rounded experience. The itinerary is flexible enough for those who love both visual arts and gourmet food, making it perfect for couples or small groups wanting an intimate taste of Matakana.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a rich, arts-centered day with excellent wine tastings and local treats, this private tour offers great value and a personalized touch.
2. Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail Private Tour
For those who want a little adventure along with their wine, this 6-hour tour combines horseback riding with visits to local wineries and sculpture parks. You’ll start with a one-hour horse ride through native bush and scenic countryside—an ideal way to stretch your legs and connect with nature. Afterward, a luxurious Mercedes will take you to Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail for a mix of art viewing and wine tasting. The tour wraps up with a visit to Glasshouse Kitchen for a more in-depth wine experience.
Guests particularly appreciate the seamless blend of outdoor activity and wine indulgence. The guide’s knowledge about local history and the region’s artists adds depth to the day. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with riding horses and looking for a more active, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: With its combination of riding, art, and wine, this tour appeals to active travelers who want to enjoy scenic beauty and cultural sights all in one day.
3. Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine + Pickup
This private experience offers a relaxed, personalized way to explore Auckland’s nearby countryside. The 6-hour tour features a guided 1-hour horseback ride through native bush and lush fields, followed by a stroll along the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail. A gourmet lunch at the elegant Glass House Kitchen pairs perfectly with premium New Zealand wines, making the entire day feel like a luxurious escape from city life.
What sets this tour apart is its private setting, perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity. The combination of riding, art, and culinary delights makes for a balanced and indulgent day. The flexible start times and hotel pickup add convenience, making it an easy option for travelers staying in Auckland.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those craving a customized, intimate day with scenic horseback riding, quality food, and wine, all wrapped in a private setting.
4. Auckland: Full-Day Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Tour
This longer, more comprehensive tour provides a deep dive into Matakana’s creative and culinary scene. Starting with a visit to Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, you’ll then enjoy a wine tasting and lunch in a suspended glass restaurant—an experience that combines stunning views and fine food. The tour continues with stops at Matakana Village’s boutique shops and a hands-on jade carving session with a local artist, making your own necklace.
Participants often praise the mix of arts, honey tasting, and wine with the relaxed pace. The full-day format suits those eager to explore beyond just wine and want to include art, nature, and local craftsmanship. The 9-hour length makes it perfect for travelers with a full day to spare, especially those interested in hands-on arts.
Bottom Line: For a well-rounded, arts-focused experience that combines local culture, food, and scenic views, this tour offers excellent value for a full day.
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, how much activity you want, and your budget. If you’re after a blend of art and wine with a relaxed pace, the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour is a great pick. For those looking for active fun, the Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail combines scenic riding with cultural stops. If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine is ideal. Lastly, if you want a full day of arts, crafts, and local flavors, the Full-Day Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Tour offers rich, hands-on experiences.
Remember to consider your fitness level for horseback rides, your interest in arts and crafts, and how much time you want to dedicate. Booking early is advisable, especially for private or small-group tours, as they tend to fill up quickly.
In summary, Matakana’s wine and arts scene offers a variety of memorable experiences. Whether you prefer a relaxed, private day, a scenic horseback ride, or a comprehensive arts and cuisine exploration, these tours provide a fantastic way to enjoy this vibrant region. Consider your interests and schedule, and you’re sure to find a tour that turns your visit into a highlight of your trip to New Zealand.