Matakana is often described as a little slice of paradise just north of Auckland. What makes it stand out isn’t just its stunning scenery, but its vibrant art scene, boutique wineries, and lively markets. We particularly love how each experience offers a taste of local craftsmanship—whether it’s sampling award-winning chocolates or wandering through sculpture trails. One of our favorites is the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour because it combines the best of the region’s artistic and vinicultural delights in a relaxed six-hour adventure. If you’re curious about the local culture, this tour offers a great introduction, especially with visits to Sculptureum and boutique vineyards. For a more personalized experience, check out the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour.
If horseback riding appeals to you, the Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail Private Tour offers a unique way to see the area. It’s a perfect mix of gentle outdoor activity coupled with delicious wine and art exploration. Do note that this tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5/5 from one traveler, highlighting its quality and personalized touch. For those seeking a comprehensive day of natural beauty and gourmet indulgence, we also recommend the Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine tour, which provides a private, all-inclusive experience.
For travelers wanting a longer, more immersive day, the Auckland: Full-Day Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Tour combines art, nature, and local produce with visits to sculpture trails, jade carving, and honey tasting. This 9-hour trip is perfect if you’re looking to really sink into Matakana’s creative side. All these options showcase the region’s diversity and are worth considering depending on your interests and schedule.
1. Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour
This 6-hour private tour offers a delightful mix of art, wine, and gourmet treats. Starting from Auckland CBD, you’ll travel in comfort to Matakana, where the day kicks off with a guided visit to Sculptureum, known for its impressive international art collection. The tour then takes you to boutique vineyards for wine tastings, giving you a chance to sample some of New Zealand’s finest wines.
One of the key highlights is the visit to Matakana’s lively Saturday Farmer’s Market, where local produce, crafts, and food stalls buzz with energy. You’ll also enjoy a lunch and chocolate tasting at award-winning chocolatiers, along with the famous Hokey Pokey Ice Cream—a sweet finish on a day packed with flavor. The tour is flexible, with complimentary pick-up and drop-off options in Auckland, and is ideal for those who love a relaxed yet enriching experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance: a little art, a little wine, and plenty of local flavor. The guide shares insightful commentary, making the experience more personal. It’s perfect for visitors looking for a boutique, full-day escape. The main downside? Since it’s a private tour, it might be pricier, but the tailored experience makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxed taste of Matakana’s best, this tour offers a comprehensive yet laid-back experience.
2. Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail Private Tour
At number 2, this 6-hour private tour combines scenic horseback riding with wine tasting and art exploration. Starting from Auckland CBD, you’re picked up in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, setting the tone for a day of comfort and exclusivity. The first activity is a one-hour horse ride through native bush and countryside, giving you an authentic taste of New Zealand’s rural beauty. No prior riding experience is necessary, making it accessible for most travelers.
Afterward, you’ll visit Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail, where you can wander amid outdoor sculptures as you learn about local art and enjoy a wine tasting at the winery’s glasshouse restaurant. The guided commentary enriches each experience, with insights into regional history and culture. This tour’s highlights include scenic rural views and a relaxed pace that allows plenty of time for photos and conversations.
This experience is especially suited for those who want a bit of everything—outdoor activity, art, and wine—without rushing. The private nature of the tour means flexibility and personalized attention. Some may find it a bit expensive, but the high ratings and tailored itinerary justify the cost. It’s best for active travelers who enjoy a touch of luxury.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, all-in-one outdoor and cultural experience, especially if horseback riding is a bucket list item.
3. Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine
This 6-hour private adventure is a great pick if you’re after a seamless, all-inclusive day. It begins with a guided horseback ride through scenic native bush and countryside, offering a tranquil escape from city life. After riding, you’ll stroll along the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, combining art and nature in a leisurely walk.
The highlight is a gourmet lunch at the Glass House Kitchen, paired with premium New Zealand wines. The private setting and small group size ensure a relaxed, intimate experience—perfect for couples or small groups. The tour emphasizes comfort and exclusivity, with pickup arranged from any Auckland hotel or cruise port.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of outdoor activity, culinary delight, and art—all in one day. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting an elegant, private experience with plenty of scenic and culinary pleasures. The only potential downside might be the cost, which reflects the personalized service.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, private day out with horseback riding, art, and fine dining.
4. Auckland: Full-Day Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Tour
For those who want a deep dive into Matakana’s arts and crafts, this 9-hour private tour is the most comprehensive. It combines visits to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, jewel carving with a local artist, and honey tasting in native bush areas. The highlight is the hands-on jade carving experience, where you create your own necklace—a memorable keepsake of your trip.
The tour also includes a lunch in a suspended glass restaurant, with local wines complementing the meal. The visit to Matakana Village lets you browse boutique shops and soak in the local vibe. With a longer duration, this experience is perfect for art and craft lovers who want to immerse themselves fully.
Rated for its creative activities and scenic settings, it’s suitable for travelers willing to spend a day exploring art, nature, and gourmet food. The intensive nature might not suit someone looking for a quick escape, but it offers great value for those wanting a complete art and wine experience.
Bottom Line: Best for craft enthusiasts, art lovers, and those wanting a full day of hands-on experiences and scenic beauty.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests—if you love discovering local art and wine, Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour offers a well-rounded taste. For outdoor enthusiasts who want a mix of riding and scenic exploration, the Horse Riding, Wine Tasting & Art Trail provides a personalized, active day. Those seeking a luxurious, private experience might prefer the Auckland: Private Horseback Ride + Lunch + Wine, ideal for couples or small groups.
If your interest lies in hands-on craft activities, the full-day jade carving and honey tasting tour (see details here) is unmatched for depth and creativity. Budget, time constraints, and your specific interests will help determine the best fit.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours, as they fill quickly during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level—most tours involve some walking or riding, so check the activity level if that’s a concern.
In summary, whether you prefer art, wine, outdoor riding, or hands-on crafts, Matakana delivers a variety of memorable experiences. For a relaxed cultural day, the Matakana Art & Wine Village Private Tour is excellent. If you’re after a more active and intimate adventure, the horseback and art tours stand out. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these authentic slices of New Zealand life.