Top 14 Wine Tours In Christchurch

Christchurch is a fantastic starting point for exploring New Zealand’s wine country, thanks to its proximity to the Waipara Valley—a region famous for premium Pinot Noir, aromatic whites, and stunning vineyard landscapes. The city itself is a vibrant hub of culture and history, but it’s the nearby wine tours that truly steal the show. Whether you prefer small-group outings with personal guides or private chauffeur-driven experiences, Christchurch offers a wide array of options. We especially appreciate tours like the Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch, which balances affordability with a personalized touch, and the Luxury Christchurch Wine Trail, perfect for those seeking comfort and expert insights. Some tours combine city sights and vineyards, while others focus solely on wine tasting. No matter your style, Christchurch is a wine lover’s dream.

Quick Overview of Top Christchurch Wine Tours

The list below covers a broad range of experiences—small-group intimate tours, private chauffeur options, luxury helicopter trips, and shore excursions for cruise travelers. From relaxed tastings at family-owned wineries like Pegasus Bay to adrenaline-filled heli-lunches, there’s something for every taste and budget. Many tours include lunch, often paired with local wines, and some feature exclusive access to boutique wineries. For detailed insights, read on to find the perfect match for your wine journey in Christchurch.

1. Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more, inc tastings and lunch

This tour offers an intimate, small-group experience—maximum six people—and includes wine tastings and lunch. Leaving Christchurch around 10:30 am, you’ll visit Pegasus Bay Winery, Torlesse Wines, and Georges Road Wines, tasting a broad array of reds and whites. What makes this tour stand out is its personalized attention and the relaxed pace, perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the vineyards without rushing. Plus, the lunch at Torlesse is a highlight, paired with some of the region’s best wines. The reviews rave about Giles, the guide, who combines knowledge with friendliness, making this a value-packed option for those wanting a relaxed, insider experience.

Bottom line: Small groups, personalized attention, and inclusive lunch make this a top pick, especially if you prefer a cozy, educational day with plenty of tastings.

2. Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch – including Lunch & Tastings

This 5.5-hour tour is a favorite for its comprehensive tasting experience—sampling roughly 15 wines at three wineries. Starting from a central Christchurch location, it visits Waipara Springs, Torlesse, and Pegasus Bay, with an included platter lunch at Waipara Springs. The tour’s emphasis on boutique vineyards means you’ll taste quality wines in a relaxed setting. Reviewers love the informative guide Stephanie, who shares stories about each winery and the region’s winemaking secrets. The lunch is repeatedly praised as a highlight, offering hearty, local flavors. Priced around $118, it offers great value, especially considering the number of wines tasted.

Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a well-rounded visit—high-quality tastings, good food, and a friendly guide—without the hassle of self-driving.

3. Sheep Farm Day Trip from Christchurch + Lunch and Winery visit

This 7-hour outing combines farm life, wine tasting, and scenic beauty, making it a unique way to see rural New Zealand. You start with a guided sheep farm visit at Glenafric, where you can watch sheep shearing, interact with working dogs, and learn about the farm’s history. Afterward, the tour continues to Georges Road Winery for tastings and a vintage tractor tour if time permits. The highlight is the authentic farm experience, which seems to resonate with travelers craving genuine Kiwi life, as reflected in the glowing reviews. The lunch at the farm, paired with local wines, elevates the experience further.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a blend of rural farm life and wine, with a touch of adventure and authenticity.

4. Wine trail and Christchurch City – Luxury, Small Group Tour

This luxury tour offers a full-day experience with city sights and boutique wineries in a plush mini-van. You’ll start with a city tour, learning about Christchurch’s recovery post-earthquake, then head to Waipara for Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. The highlight is the gourmet lunch at a winery, included in the price, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy fine food and wine. Guests praise the personalized service and the insider tips from guides. With a 7-hour duration, it’s a bit pricier at $388 but offers a comprehensive experience that balances culture and viticulture.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want luxury, city insights, and top-notch wine tastings with a touch of sophistication.

5. From Christchurch: Sheep Farm Day Trip with Lunch & Winery

This 6-hour tour focuses on farm authenticity and wine tasting, with exclusive access to Glenafric Sheep Farm. After a sheep shearing demonstration, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views from Louise’s Lookout and visit Georges Road Winery for tastings. The local driver guides share stories about farm life, making the experience more personal. The combination of rural charm and wine makes this ideal for those wanting a relaxed, genuinely Kiwi experience.

Bottom line: A great choice for families or anyone wanting farm life combined with wine and scenic views, with a friendly, informative guide.

6. Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch

For about three hours, you can enjoy a 20-minute helicopter flight to a top winery, such as Black Estate or Greystone Wines, and then indulge in a lunch at your own expense. This experience is perfect for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime splurge. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the helicopter service and the extraordinary views. The experience includes flying over Canterbury farmland and landing at a winery, where you can soak in the scenery and enjoy some of New Zealand’s best wines.

Bottom line: Best for celebrations or those craving a luxury adventure with incredible scenery and exclusive access.

7. Lyttelton Shore Excursion – Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch

Designed for cruise travelers, this 5-hour tour departs from Lyttelton, taking you to Waipara’s top wineries with lunch included at Waipara Springs. The convenience of timed pickups suits cruise schedules perfectly. The tour visits 3 wineries, including Pegasus Bay and Torlesse, with tastings of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and more. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and flexible timing. It’s a great way to experience wine country without the hassle of independent travel.

Bottom line: Perfect for cruise passengers wanting a well-organized, enjoyable day in New Zealand’s premier wine region.

8. Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour

This 7.5-hour tour combines a city tour of Christchurch, including Botanic Gardens and earthquake sites, with wine tastings in Waipara. Starting with scenic viewpoints and city landmarks, then moving onto 3 wineries, it offers a balance of urban and rural highlights. The guides are praised for their knowledge and flexibility, adjusting start times based on ship schedules.

Bottom line: Great for visitors who want to see Christchurch’s highlights and sample top wines without missing out on the city’s sights.

9. Hanmer Springs Private Day Tour Including Hot Pool & Wine Tasting

This 10-hour private tour combines wine tasting at Waipara wineries with a relaxing afternoon at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools. The journey includes visits to Pegasus Bay, Waipara Hills, and Greystone Wines, plus optional hot stone massages or jet boating. It’s ideal for travelers wanting full flexibility, personalized attention, and a mix of wine, relaxation, and scenery.

Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a luxury, private experience with added wellness or adventure options.

10. Private Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with optional Gourmet Lunch

This 8-hour private tour is a luxury experience where a dedicated driver takes you door-to-door to four wineries, with tastings and a gourmet 2-course lunch included. The focus on customization makes it ideal for special occasions or discerning wine lovers who want a tailored day out. Reviewers highlight the seamless organization and exquisite wines.

Bottom line: Best suited for private groups or couples looking for a high-end, personalized wine adventure with excellent food.

11. Waipara Wine Trail Private Group Tour From Christchurch

This fully private experience offers company-exclusive visits to Waipara Springs, Torlesse, and Pegasus Bay, with a focus on organic wines. You can choose to tailor the pace and stops. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and the reviews commend the personalized service. For $146 per person, it’s a good pick for wine aficionados wanting an authentic, flexible day.

Bottom line: Ideal for private groups seeking a customized, relaxed itinerary with a focus on organic wines.

12. Waipara Valley Winery Tour Wine Tastings and Scenic Views

This 5 to 6-hour tour emphasizes scenic vineyard views combined with award-winning wines. Visiting Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, and Torlesse, it includes hotel pickup, making it convenient. Reviewers enjoy the delicious tastings and beautiful landscapes, making it ideal for photo lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, picturesque experience with generous tastings.

13. Christchurch Waipara Valley Private Wine Tour

This 7-hour private tour takes you to 5+ wineries, focusing on award-winning Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Syrah. The scenic drive and farm-to-table lunch complement the tastings. The guide’s knowledge about the region’s organic wines is a highlight, and the personalized itinerary suits those craving a curated experience.

Bottom line: Excellent for wine lovers wanting a comprehensive, private day with local flair.

14. From Christchurch: Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara

This 5.5-hour private tour offers customized visits to top wineries not available on larger tours. The luxury MPV ensures comfort, and the flexible pickup/drop-off helps fit your schedule. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and unique wineries visited.

Bottom line: Best for discerning travelers who want a tailored, private experience in Waipara.

How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Christchurch

When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer group tours or private experiences. If you love luxury and customization, the Luxury Christchurch Wine Trail or the Private Waipara Valley Wine Tasting might be perfect. Budget travelers or those who prefer a more social atmosphere will find the Waipara Wine Tour with Lunch offers excellent value.

If adventure or authenticity appeals to you, the Sheep Farm Day Trip provides a genuine farm experience, while special occasions can be marked by the Heli Lunch for a memorable splurge.

Most tours are available year-round, but peak harvest season (February to April) offers the best tasting experiences. Booking early, especially for private or luxury options, ensures you get your preferred date.

In summary, Christchurch’s wine tours range from affordable group outings to luxury, private experiences with helicopter rides. If you want a relaxed, educational day, tours like the Waipara Experience deliver excellent value. For special occasions, the helicopter or luxury city and wine tours provide a touch of glamour. Whatever your style, these tours highlight the best of Canterbury’s vineyards, making it easy to enjoy superb wines and scenic vistas.

If you’re planning a trip, remember to book early—these experiences are popular and fill up quickly, especially in the height of the season. Cheers to a fantastic wine adventure in Christchurch!