A Taste of New Zealand

Framed by two sparkling harbours and a skyline dotted with volcanic peaks, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city—and its most diverse. A vibrant mix of cultures, cuisine, and coastal charm, Auckland is where bold flavours meet laid-back sophistication.

The city’s food scene is dynamic and ever-evolving. In the central city, you’ll find award-winning restaurants like Cassia and Culprit, known for their inventive takes on modern Kiwi and Indian cuisine. The Britomart precinct and Commercial Bay buzz with stylish eateries, rooftop bars, and waterfront dining, perfect for soaking up harbour views over a cocktail or two.

Wine lovers can escape to the nearby Kumeu Wine Country, just 30 minutes from the CBD, where family-run estates like Kumeu River and Soljans offer tastings of exceptional Chardonnays and aromatic whites. Closer to the city, Urbanaut Brewery and Garage Project bring a craft beer edge, while boutique distilleries like Parnell’s Dancing Sands round out the city’s growing spirits scene.

From bustling food markets in Ponsonby and Grey Lynn to seaside fish and chips in Mission Bay, Auckland serves flavour at every turn—whether you’re after fine dining, global street food, or fresh-off-the-boat seafood.

Equal parts cosmopolitan and coastal, Auckland invites you to eat well, drink deeply, and explore widely. This is New Zealand’s largest city—but it might just be its tastiest too.

Pick up your hire car and drive to the ferry terminal for your sailing to Waiheke Island.

Just a 40-minute ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island feels like a world away. With its sun-drenched vineyards, golden beaches, and thriving food scene, it’s the ultimate escape for wine lovers and foodies alike.

Start your journey at Mudbrick Vineyard, where sweeping views meet elegant Syrahs and Bordeaux blends. Just next door, Cable Bay offers stunning wines, modern architecture, and a front-row seat to the Auckland skyline. For a mix of wine and craft beer, Tantalus Estate is a standout, while Te Motu offers rich reds and rustic charm at their renowned restaurant, The Shed.

The island’s dining scene is equally impressive. The Oyster Inn in Oneroa serves fresh local seafood in a breezy bistro setting, while Casita Miro brings bold Mediterranean flavours and vineyard views. For something truly special, Amiamo offers intimate Italian-style dinners tucked into the island’s native forest. And if you’re in the mood for spirits, Waiheke Distilling Co. delivers handcrafted gins with scenic tasting platters.

Whether you’re tasting your way through vineyard lunches or sipping sunset cocktails by the sea, Waiheke invites you to relax, indulge, and soak in the island magic.

Depart Waiheke Island and return your hire car to Auckland Airport for your onwards flight to Napier. Upon arrival you will pick up another hire car and drive to your chosen accommodation.

On the sunny eastern coast of the North Island, Napier and the Hawke’s Bay region offer a unique blend of heritage, hospitality, and indulgence. Known as New Zealand’s oldest wine region and home to some of the country’s most elegant Art Deco architecture, this is where timeless style meets rich flavour.

Hawke’s Bay is a haven for wine lovers, especially those who appreciate bold reds and complex Chardonnays. Iconic estates like Craggy Range, Te Mata Estate, and Trinity Hill deliver cellar door experiences in stunning vineyard settings. Many offer on-site dining—Craggy Range’s restaurant, for example, is a destination in itself, showcasing seasonal, locally sourced fare paired with wines from just metres away.

In Napier, step back in time with a stroll through its beautifully preserved Art Deco streets, then settle in for a long lunch or tasting flight at one of the many chic cafés, wine bars, or oceanfront eateries. Nearby Havelock North is also a food lover’s dream, packed with boutique wineries, artisan producers, and destination restaurants like Black Barn Bistro and Mister D.

The region is also known for its vibrant farmers’ markets and orchards, offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and more straight from the source. And if you’re after a more relaxed pace, nothing beats a leisurely bike ride along the Hawke’s Bay Trails, winding through vineyards, farmland, and coastal views with wine stops along the way.

Tucked away in the heart of the Wairarapa, just over an hour from Wellington, Martinborough is a small town with serious wine credentials. Known for its elegant Pinot Noir, walkable wine trails, and relaxed village vibe, Martinborough offers an intimate, down-to-earth escape that punches well above its weight.

The town’s flat layout makes it perfect for exploring by bike or on foot, with over 20 cellar doors located just minutes from the village square. Standout wineries like Ata Rangi, Palliser Estate, and Dry River have put Martinborough on the map, offering world-class tastings in beautiful, understated settings. Many also feature picnic-friendly lawns and cosy garden terraces—perfect for a long afternoon in the sun.

But it’s not just about the wine. Martinborough has become a hub for slow food and local flavour. From elevated bistro fare at Tirohana Estate to farm-to-table dining at Union Square Bistro, the region’s restaurants take pride in showcasing Wairarapa produce and hospitality. Add to that charming cafés, artisan bakeries, and a thriving weekend market, and you’ve got a town that knows how to feed the soul.

Whether you’re tasting Pinot at its source, dining fireside in a historic lodge, or cycling between vineyards under big skies, Martinborough invites you to unwind and savour the simple pleasures—great wine, good food, and genuine connection.

Drive to Wellington (50 miles) and take the ferry across the Cook Strait to Picton on New Zealand’s South Island.

Picton is more than just a ferry port—it’s the welcoming gateway to one of New Zealand’s finest wine and food regions. With its sparkling harbours, laid-back charm, and easy access to the famed Marlborough wine country, Picton is the perfect place to start your South Island journey.

Spend the night here and you’ll find a charming town centre filled with cafés, wine bars, and seaside eateries serving up the best of land and sea. Fresh green-lipped mussels, locally caught seafood, and Marlborough lamb are menu staples—best enjoyed with a glass of something local and a view over the marina.

Set in the wide-open landscapes of Marlborough, Blenheim is the vibrant centre of New Zealand’s most iconic wine region. With endless sunshine, vine-striped valleys, and more than 30 cellar doors just minutes from town, it’s a destination that knows how to please a palate.

This is the home of world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, but there’s much more to explore—bold Pinot Noirs, elegant Chardonnays, and small-batch varietals are all part of the local story. Whether you’re visiting trailblazers like Cloudy Bay or discovering boutique producers off the beaten path, tastings here are unhurried, authentic, and often enjoyed with a view of the vines.

Blenheim’s food scene is grounded in simplicity and freshness. Vineyard restaurants highlight local seafood, lamb, and produce in season, while downtown cafés and wine bars offer everything from light bites to refined dining. The Marlborough Farmers’ Market brings together local growers and makers every weekend—perfect for a taste of the region beyond the bottle.

From cycling wine trails to enjoying a long lunch in the sun, Blenheim invites you to experience Marlborough at your own pace—relaxed, flavourful, and undeniably memorable.

Few places in New Zealand blend land and sea quite like Kaikōura. Backed by dramatic mountains and fronted by deep Pacific waters, this coastal town is as famous for its wildlife as it is for its seafood-rich cuisine. Here, nature is the backdrop—and what’s on your plate is just as unforgettable.

Kaikōura takes its name from the Māori words kai (food) and kōura (crayfish), and it’s no surprise the local delicacy remains a highlight. Whether it’s served from a beachside caravan or plated with finesse at a top local restaurant, crayfish is a must-try. Alongside it, you’ll find fresh pāua, mussels, and line-caught fish, often paired with a glass of nearby Marlborough wine or a local craft brew.

Beyond seafood, Kaikōura’s food scene continues to grow, with an emphasis on seasonal, sustainable ingredients from the surrounding region. Think lamb from the foothills, fresh produce from inland farms, and baked goods made with local grains and dairy. It’s simple, honest food—done exceptionally well.

Of course, Kaikōura is also a haven for explorers. Go from sipping wine by the sea to spotting whales, seals, and dusky dolphins—all within a single afternoon. The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway offers breathtaking coastal views, while boat tours and kayaking get you closer to the marine life that defines this place.

Whether you’re here to taste the ocean, breathe in the mountain air, or just slow down and soak up the scenery, Kaikōura delivers an experience as rich as its waters—and as grounded as the community that calls it home.

Travel inland to Christchurch.

Christchurch is a city reinvented. Blending English heritage with bold, modern design, this South Island hub has evolved into one of New Zealand’s most exciting food and wine destinations. With riverside precincts, repurposed laneways, and a strong creative streak, Christchurch delivers experiences that are both grounded and surprising.

The city’s culinary scene is buzzing with energy. In the Riverside Market and surrounding laneways, you’ll find artisan producers, boutique food stalls, and locally roasted coffee on every corner. Across the city, restaurants like Twenty Seven Steps, Gatherings, and 5th Street showcase the region’s produce—think wild Canterbury lamb, foraged greens, and seasonal seafood, all served with flair.

Back in Christchurch, stylish bars, rooftop lounges, and cosy wine spots bring the city to life after dark. Whether you’re dining in a restored heritage building or grabbing street food by the Avon River, Christchurch offers a mix of flavours that reflects its spirit: fresh, diverse, and full of character.

Travel across the Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo.

Lake Tekapo is pure South Island magic. Set against snow-capped peaks and glowing turquoise waters, this alpine town is as tranquil as it is breathtaking. By day, it’s all about wide skies and mountain air; by night, the stars take centre stage in one of the world’s few Dark Sky Reserves.

While Tekapo is known for its views—and rightly so—it also offers a quiet but growing food scene rooted in local flavour. Cafés and restaurants here make the most of the region’s produce, from Canterbury lamb and high-country salmon to artisan breads and small-batch cheeses. At spots like Kohan Restaurant, you can enjoy Japanese-inspired dishes with lakefront views, while others serve hearty alpine fare perfect after a day in the fresh air.

Tekapo is also the ideal place to unwind. Soak in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, explore nearby Mt. John Observatory, or walk to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, perched quietly on the lake’s edge. In winter, the town becomes a gateway for snow sports, while summer brings hiking, stargazing, and relaxed lakeside picnics.

Travel across the Lindis Pass to Cromwell.

Cromwell is a vibrant town steeped in history and surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most celebrated vineyards. Known as the gateway to Central Otago’s world-renowned Pinot Noir, Cromwell blends old gold rush charm with a thriving food and wine culture.

Vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, producing rich, fruit-driven wines that have earned global acclaim. Cellar doors like Akarua, Amisfield, and Mt. Difficulty offer tastings just a short drive from town, where you can experience the full depth of Central Otago’s unique terroir.

Cromwell’s food scene embraces local produce with pride—fresh stone fruits in summer, artisan cheeses, and lamb from surrounding farms feature heavily on menus. The town’s historic precinct is dotted with cafes, boutique eateries, and artisan shops, perfect for a leisurely day of tasting and exploring.

Beyond wine and food, Cromwell is a hub for outdoor adventure. Cycle the nearby Otago Central Rail Trail, kayak on the lakes, or simply soak up the stunning Central Otago landscapes with a glass of Pinot in hand.

Queenstown is a place of striking contrasts—wild alpine beauty meets refined taste, high-adrenaline adventure pairs perfectly with world-class wine. Set on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, framed by the dramatic Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown isn’t just scenic—it’s sensational in every sense.

Known globally as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown also delivers on the culinary front. Its buzzing town centre is filled with innovative restaurants, lakefront wine bars, and iconic eateries like Fergburger. Whether you’re after fine dining with mountain views or relaxed plates featuring South Island venison, wild mushrooms, or Otago cheeses, Queenstown’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes.

Wine lovers are in their element here. Just 20 minutes away lies Gibbston Valley, part of the Central Otago wine region, where boutique vineyards produce some of the country’s most expressive Pinot Noir. Cellar doors like Gibbston Valley Wines, Peregrine, and Chard Farm offer tastings, vineyard lunches, and unforgettable views.

From heli-picnics and luxury lodge dining to tucked-away cocktail lounges and local craft breweries, Queenstown serves up a lifestyle where every meal feels elevated—and every glass tells a story.