Luxury New Zealand Food Tour

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Southern Alps, Arrowtown is a charming historic gold mining town that captures the essence of a bygone era while offering modern-day comforts. Its picturesque streets are lined with beautifully preserved miners' cottages, inviting cafes, and boutique shops, creating a quaint and vibrant atmosphere.
On this 5-hour local private tour visit historic Arrowtown, enjoy tasting manuka honey at the Buzz Stop, Taste local wines, and enjoy lunch at Queenstown's latest dining venue the Woolshed located at the stunning Ayrburn precinct (lunch at your own expense).

You will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Queenstown airport to meet your flight.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. Find out all you need to know about rental car hire in New Zealand with our helpful FAQ's.

Following Lake Wakatipu had towards Frankton, crossing the iconic Shotover River. Pass Lake Hayes and follow the Kawarau River as it winds through the landscape to reach your destination, Gibbston. Also known as the 'Valley of the Vines' Gibbston is home to popular vineyards, cellar doors and restaurants.

Gibbston Valley Winery is home of New Zealand's largest wine cave. They offer daily wine cave and tasting tours to the region's oldest vineyard - their very own Home Block. You will experience private viewing of their exclusive 'Bud to Bottle' film with a glass of sparkling wine as well as private tasting of current releases & past vintages in the Wine Cave. The tour includes 2-course lunch and a visit to the Home Block Vineyard, originally planted by the founder and wine pioneer Allan Brady in 1983.

Follow the Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell, famous for its stone fruit orchards and in the right season you can purchase this fresh fruit from the many roadside stalls. Pass through Cromwell and over Lake Dunstan to arrive in Bannockburn, world renown for creating some of New Zealand's finest wines.

An award-winning restaurant and terrace have expansive views of the Bannockburn Inlet and Carrick Range. Changing each season, our menu is designed to showcase seasonal local produce including New Zealand’s famous game, seafood, summer fruit, and organic vegetables. The menus follow the vineyard lunch tradition of offering a variety of share plates or individual platter lunches.

Leaving Bannockburn pass through Cromwell, and continue along Lake Dunstan until you reach the historic and scenic Bendigo Reserve, which was one of Otago's original gold mining settlements. Well-marked paths will guide you to the remains of stone cottages and other buildings from this bygone era. The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand's highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock-covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from Central Otago into the Mackenzie Basin. The towns of Omarama and Twizel are the last stops before you arrive at Lake Pukaki and take the Mt Cook Highway along the shores to the village. In Aoraki Mt Cook Village a myriad of activities are available scenic ski plane or helicopter flights with glacier landings and a host of walks to suit all abilities. At The Hermitage Hotel, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must-see.
Please note: There are no food shops at Mt. Cook. If you wish to self-cater, you should stock up before arriving or make dinner reservations in advance. Restaurant options are limited.

At 3754m Aoraki-Mt Cook is Aotearoa-New Zealand's highest mountain, located deep in the heart of the Southern Alps. As well as its impressive beauty, Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park is also home to a huge range of awe-inspiring sights and activities. Take to the air with Mt Cook Ski Planes for a scenic flight that includes a glacier landing. At around 27 kilometres long the Tasman Glacier is New Zealand's longest and a Glacier Explorers tour allows you to see its unique features up close.
There are many short hikes in and around the park and these are well signposted around the village. Those with an interest in the night sky should take a Big Sky Stargazing tour with the Hermitage Hotel. The region is considered to have one of the clearest night skies in the world and is one of the few gold-rated dark sky reserves worldwide.
Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for insight into this region's mountain climbing history. You'll also learn of Sir Ed's incredible achievements and his dedication to helping others around the world.

Climb on board your own private helicopter and fly over New Zealand largest glaciers and tallest peaks with your experienced pilot. Get up close to New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki and explore the ancient blue ice of the glaciers. Once you've flown over the mighty Alps you will discover the magic of the West Coast landscape, snow capped mountains descend into lush green coastal rainforests as you come into land on a secluded West Coast beach. Sip drinks beside your own private bonfire as your pilot dons a wetsuit and catches fresh crayfish straight from the sea. Climb back onboard for another exhilarating scenic flight before your own private dining experience high in the alpine with freshly caught crayfish.

Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, with no light pollution. 
Marvel as the sun dips behind the grand Southern Alps during our Dusk to Dark excursion. Join us on the Lavender Lawn at the magical twilight hour and indulge in the awe-inspiring panoramas of Aoraki/Mount Cook, offering an ideal backdrop for capturing stunning photographs. As darkness envelops the sky, step into the entrancing realm of the Pukaki Observatory at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll be welcomed with a glass of wine or a dram of whisky to set the mood. Our knowledgeable astronomer will then guide you through a celestial exploration using a high-powered laser pointer and a telescope mounted on a pier. Delve into the enigmas of constellations and their mythologies, stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets, the Moon, and more, while also relishing real-time views of cosmic wonders on a large screen via a camera connected to the telescope. Whether you're a novice to stargazing or a seasoned enthusiast, our guided tour ensures an unforgettable journey beneath one of the world's darkest and clearest skies. This extraordinary experience offers a rare opportunity to stargaze within the renowned Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

Leaving Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, travel a short distance before stopping at the visitor centre on the southern shores of Lake Pukaki. Learn about the formation of the region and take in the spectacular views of Mount Cook. Lake Tekapo also displays the same reflective qualities of Lake Pukaki, making the waters a bright turquoise. You’ll go through the small town of Tekapo, home to some of the most photographed subjects in the country, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog statue. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just marvel at the magnificent views. From here you travel through Burkes Pass and into the rich farming valley that surrounds Geraldine. Continue on across the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.

Christchurch known in Māori as Ōtautahi, is the largest metro area in the South Island. Commonly referred to as New Zealand's "Garden City", Christchurch is home to one of the biggest public parks in the country, and beautiful botanic gardens. The city was hit with devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, now the city crosses the line between its English heritage and a new modern archetecture. To take in some arts and culture, pay a visit to the Canterbury Museum or the Christchurch Art Gallery. Take a step back in time with a tram around the city or punt along the Avon River. If tasting your way around the city is your means of travel, try out a cultural eating tour. A short drive from the CBD will lead you to the outskirts of the Banks Peninsula beachside suburb of Sumner or through the tunnel to Lyttleton Harbour which hosts fantastic markets on Saturday mornings.

Sit back as a local host takes you on a complete journey, discovering delicious kai (food) and igniting the senses with paired drinks. Amiki will introduce you to local culture, discover delicious kai and immerse you in the emerging foodie scene of Ōtautahi - Christchurch.

Today you travel the short leg up the coast from Christchurch City to the breathtaking Waipara Valley Take your time to enjoy the Wairapa wine region on the way. Waipara is one New Zealand’s fastest growing wine regions with over 75 vineyards in the Waipara Valley covering more than 1,200 hectares of plantings. A sub region of the Canterbury wine region, Waipara is renowned for producing unique richer, spicier Pinot Noirs and Rieslings. 

Situated in Waipara, Greystone is dedicated to sustainable, organic winemaking that captures the essence of their unique terroir. "A Taste of Greystone" offers an exclusive tasting of premium wines, carefully selected to showcase the best of what the vineyard has to offer. The experience includes Vineyard Ferment Pinot Noir, Erins Block Chardonnay, and Thomas Brother Pinot Noir, each expertly paired with a small dish crafted in-house using locally sourced, organic ingredients. These pairings are designed to enhance the unique characteristics of each wine, providing an elevated tasting experience. Guided by a knowledgeable team, explore the intricate connections between the wines and the culinary creations that accompany them, while learning about the regenerative practices that define the vineyard's approach to viticulture.

A short drive north from Waipara to Kaikoura enjoy the rolling hillside as you make way for the coastal township of Kaikoura, home to an array of marine life such as fur seals, whales and dolphins.

Kaikoura is a breathtaking seaside town teeming with marine life and natural beauty. As you wander through this coastal paradise, you'll be enveloped by the fresh sea breeze and the sounds of the ocean. Begin your adventure by observing the lively fur seal colony at the tip of the peninsula. For an unforgettable experience, board a boat to go whale watching and marvel at the majestic whales that call these waters home year-round. If you're feeling adventurous, take the plunge and swim with the playful dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. For bird enthusiasts, Kaikoura offers the chance to get up close with the native albatross, an awe-inspiring sight. The town is rich with attractions, walking tracks, and activities for every visitor. A walk around the Kaikoura Peninsula is a must, where you can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, observe sea creatures basking on the rocks, and watch seabirds soaring above. Be sure to keep a respectful distance from the sleeping sea lions you might encounter along the way. Ohau Point is another highlight, where you can watch fur seals frolic in their natural environment. To delve into Kaikoura's fascinating history, visit Fyffe House. This historic whaler's cottage offers a glimpse into the town's whaling past and its evolution over the years. No trip to Kaikoura is complete without sampling the local seafood. Renowned for having some of the best fish and chips in the country, Kaikoura's eateries serve fresh catches straight from the morning's haul, ensuring a delicious and authentic dining experience. If you need a break from the action, unwind at Lavendyl Lavender Farm. Stroll through the fragrant lavender fields, relax in the serene atmosphere, and browse the gift shop for a variety of lavender products. Kaikoura seamlessly blends adventure, history, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking a unique and enriching experience.

Join chef Fiona and prepare a simple, but delicious seasonal feast cooked with ingredients harvested and foraged from her extensive garden. While sipping on a cup of locally roasted coffee or a refreshing drink, begin with an introduction to the kitchen and menu for the day. Together you will prepare and cook a seasonal feast, explore the extensive cookbook library and enjoy stunning views of the Kaikōura coast and mountain range. Learn many tips and techniques for the creation of the dishes. To finish, sit down with a glass of wine or beer and enjoy your meal.

Today follow the coast to Picton, located at the top of the South Island. As you leave Kaikoura you'll take in the spectacular shoreline and keep a lookout for native wildlife as you go. Stop to view adult fur seals at Ohau Point, and take a short stroll along the oceanside walkway. Continuing on, you'll have the ocean on one side and the Kaikoura ranges on the other before traversing the dry hills of Marlborough, New Zealand's largest wine-producing region. Visit one of the vineyards surrounding Blenheim for a wine tasting or a gourmet lunch before beginning the final leg of your journey to Picton.

Before departing Picton drop your rental car at the wharf and continue your onward journey.

The 92 km journey between Picton and Wellington takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a true photographic opportunity. From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. After crossing the strait you approach Wellington Harbour and pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countries highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).
When you're not out on the deck enjoying the amazing views, you can retreat to the exclusive premium plus lounge which is the most comfortable and relaxing way to travel across the Cook Strait. You'll enjoy complimentary beverages, light snacks, lunch or breakfast, internet access, magazines and newspapers and the most comfortable seating, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. Find out all you need to know about rental car hire in New Zealand with our helpful FAQ's.

Wellington known in Māori as Te Upoko o Te Ika a Maui is home to New Zealand’s centre of government. Often referred to as ‘mini Melbourne', this windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel. Head to Te Papa Museum for a history lesson and a ticket to one of its many international exhibitions or jump aboard the Wellington Cable Car - the only running funicular railway in the country. For those with an eye for boutique, fashion wander through Cuba St to sample some of the city's best vintage stores. Break for coffee at a hipster cafe and be sure to snap a pic outside the ‘Beehive,’ New Zealand’s parliamentary debate chamber. Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop Experience, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar. If you're a foodie at heart, a two-hour round trip to Martinborough is a must-do. Take your time as you wind through spectacular wine country. For an educational day out, learn about New Zealand's native species at Zealandia, the world's first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

Enjoy a 7 hour private guided tour where you savour the best tastes Wellington has to offer. From Coffee, Chocolate, Peanut butter, a Craft beer brewery, Gin Distillery, lunch, and a scenic drive to Mt Victoria, Eastern and Southern Bays.

The Wairarapa on the eastern side of the Remutaka Range is a far contrast to the hills of Wellington. Rich pasture lands have provided for the people of the region since human settlement. Martinborough is famous for its boutique vineyards and just a little further north Greytown boasts the largest number of historic wooden buildings in the country. Masterton is the service capital of the region and also home to the world-famous Golden Shears competition where sheep shearers compete for the highly prestigious title of the fastest shearer. The Hawke's Bay welcomes you as you enter the grape growing region of Havelock North.

Hawke's Bay Wine Country is New Zealand's leading food and wine region and with over 2200 hours of sunshine, the region is a year-round holiday destination. Located on the east coast of the North Island, the landscapes of Hawke's Bay begin with the high, forested Ruahine and Kawkeka Ranges. From the mountains the land sweeps down towards the coast, flattening out to become the Heretaunga Plains. A number of wide rivers, excellent for fishing, run swiftly to meet the blue Pacific Ocean and glorious beaches which stretch from Mahia in the north to Porangahau in the south.
Hawke's Bay is the country's oldest winemaking region and is New Zealand's leading producer of award-winning red wines. Hawke's Bay is also home to a world-class concentration of Art Deco architecture, fresh local produce and artisan food producers complemented by a vibrant arts scene and a rich Maori culture.
The region offers a diverse range of things to see and do from families enjoying the sun on the golden sand beaches, crystal clear rivers to explore, swimming with dolphins and the largest most accessible mainland Gannet colony in the world to name just a few. There's also hunting and fishing, 20 local golf courses to challenge you and 17 heritage trails to explore.
Northern Hawke's Bay is a popular destination for outdoor adventure. The rivers and coastline offer well-recognised trout fishing and excellent seafood with whitebait spots, deep sea fishing, surfcasting and underwater fishing all available. Wairoa is the main town of Northern Hawke's Bay and is the gateway to Lake Waikaremoana, Mahia Peninsula and the wilderness of Te Urewera National Park. If you want to get close to nature without tramping visit Cape Kidnappers, home to one of the largest, most assessable mainland gannet colonies in the world.

During this tour, you will taste your way through the region, discover local artists, Kiwi architecture, and what makes Hawke’s Bay food and wine unique. You will meet local New Zealanders doing everyday things and have a home-made lunch with the Cheese & Wine Experience.

Crossing the Ahimanawa Ranges you arrive into the town of Taupo. Lake Taupo is a lively place with many shops, bars and cafes all catering for the traveller and visitor. Follow the road out of Taupo, through the city of Rotorua, famous for its bubbling mud pools and Māori culture. Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley are well-signposted on the highway between the two towns.

Discover the geothermal, adventure, and cultural wonderland of Rotorua. As you explore, you may see steam rising from cracks in the road, bubbling and hissing water in pools along the lake's edge, and the unmistakable smell of Sulfur. Rotorua is rich in Māori culture and history, with many Māori inhabitants recognising the great potential of the volcanic land. For an outdoor adventure, head to The Redwoods and experience the rainforest treetops from high up. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of New Zealand's native birds, such as the Pīwakawaka (Fantail) and the Tūī. Alternatively, enjoy the Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake Walk or explore Kuirau Park, where you'll find bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes. Don't miss the private thermal reserves such as Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu, where you can walk among bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers, and Sulfur ponds. Just a few minutes from the town centre, the Agrodome and National Kiwi Hatchery offer an insight to nature. Rotorua's rich Māori culture is a must-see, spend an evening with Te Pā Tū complete with a traditional style dinner or stroll along the lake edge to reach one of the country's oldest Māori villages at Ohinemutu. When hunger strikes, visit Eat Street in Rotorua CBD, a vibrant street lined with delicious eateries and restaurants to satisfy any craving. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without experiencing Rotorua's original tourist attraction - a relaxing spa treatment, this town boost an array of wellness experience to unwind in. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Rotorua offers an unforgettable experience.

Adventure into the wilderness on an illuminating expedition through the abundance of the forest. Search for native plants and herbs, learn about their nutritional and medicinal properties, and discover their ties with Maori cultural traditions.

Redwoods Nightlights is one of New Zealand’s top design-led tourism experiences that features 30 exquisite lanterns designed by world-renowned designer and sustainability champion David Trubridge. Floating between 9-20 metres above the forest floor, this eco-tourism walk is 700 metres long, spans across 28 suspension bridges and 27 platforms, and takes about 40 minutes to complete. With the fast pass, you will be able to skip lines and get straight into the fun!

Indulge your senses in a Restorative Journey (Wai Whakaora), a thoughtfully designed therapeutic experience inspired by the practices and culture of Ngāti Whakaue. Embrace the healing power of the natural environment as your senses awaken through a series of hot and cold therapies. Your journey begins beneath a cascading waterfall, cleansing your body and mind. Transition to Te Ahi Tupua, where a sequence of hot and cold immersions invigorates and rejuvenates. Relax in the soothing waters of the Geothermal Pool, sourced from the renowned Rachel Spring. Follow this with a refreshing cold plunge, easing muscle tension and reducing inflammation. Conclude your experience in the Kohu Wai Arik steam room, where heated stones create a serene space for reflection and relaxation, leaving you revitalized and restored.

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the Maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato guides you through the art and craft stores of Tirau and the township of Cambridge. Continue on a little further to arrive in Auckland City, your destination for the night.

Return your rental vehicle to your designated depot before your next adventure.

Auckland is known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau, which translates to "desired by many". The city offers an abundance of activities and hidden gems suited for everyone. For a serene escape, venture to the award-winning wineries scattered across Waiheke; simply hop on a ferry and enjoy a leisurely day in the coastal breeze. Auckland Botanical Gardens, sprawled across 156 acres of lush land and native forest on Hill Road. Experience the great outdoors by visiting iconic landmarks such as One Tree Hill or the renowned ex-volcano, Mt Eden. Alternatively, hop on a quick ferry from the CBD to Devonport and discover this charming seaside suburb. Shopaholics will be delighted to explore Auckland's main shopping district, Newmarket, boasting an array of local boutiques and luxury labels nestled within the Newmarket Westfield Mall. Ponsonby a short drive from the CBD offers New Zealand designers, quaint boutiques, and exceptional dining options. Explore the eclectic mix of bars, thrift shops, and culinary delights along Karangahape Road, affectionately known as "K Road" by locals. Once Auckland's red-light district in the 1960s, it's now recognised as the world's 6th coolest street. Auckland's diverse cultural landscape has inspired an array of tantalising cuisines and dining experiences scattered across the city. 

Begin your tour on Aucklands eat street, be greeted by your local guide, and meet and mingle over some traditional New Zealand-style cuisine. Throughout your tour, you will pass through the City hotspots, be taken down hidden lanes, visit beautiful street art, be pointed out the best spots to eat, and learn firsthand the best parts of Auckland. During your tour, your guide will show you 3 more unique restaurants throughout your walking journey. You will leave feeling full with food and knowledge about Aucklands best!

Take a scenic cruise through the Hauraki Gulf between the Auckland downtown ferry terminal and Matiatia Wharf on Waiheke Island.

Enjoy succulent fresh oysters, award-winning olive oil and other locally-produced specialty foods, accompanied by wines from some of the Island’s top boutique vineyards. The guide will provide an entertaining and informative commentary during your private experience. 
Visit an award-winning olive oil mill, followed by two vineyards, each offering a range of gourmet tastes to accompany the wines. A fine dining lunch experience at one of Waiheke's top vineyard restaurants is also included.

You will be met at your Auckland accommodation by the driver and transferred to the airport.

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!