The small-group drinking tours in Napier, New Zealand stand out for their exceptional value and local immersion. These 5-6 hour excursions pack in visits to the region’s best wineries, craft breweries, and gin distilleries, all while keeping groups intimate at 15-20 people max.
I’m particularly fond of tours that combine tastings with Art Deco architecture walks – they offer a perfect mix of culture and crafted beverages. The local guides really know their stuff, and the backdrops of Hawke’s Bay make every stop photo-worthy.
For the best bang for your buck, look for tours that include both wine and craft beer stops. These balanced itineraries appeal to everyone in your group and showcase the full spectrum of Napier’s drink scene.
Let’s look at the top drinking tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
- Small group tours in Napier offer a range of wine, beer, cider, and gin tastings, providing an intimate and immersive drinking experience.
- Tours feature visits to local wineries, craft breweries, and the country’s oldest winery, offering a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages.
- Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and history, and some tours include Art Deco architecture exploration and scenic backdrops.
- Tours are accessible for most travelers, with a minimum age of 18 for alcohol consumption and accommodation for those with disabilities.
- The tours boast a 100% traveler recommendation rate, with consistently high ratings and positive reviews highlighting friendly and knowledgeable guides, enjoyable tastings, and beautiful scenery.
Small Group – Napier, Wine, Beer & Cider Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
This small group tour in Napier, New Zealand offers an immersive experience sampling the region’s finest wines, beers, and ciders.
With a maximum of 16 travelers, this 5.5 to 6-hour excursion provides an intimate and personalized experience. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the history and wine-making process, creating a relaxed atmosphere with no time pressure.
The tour includes complimentary pickup and drop-off within Napier, as well as transport by air-conditioned minivan. Participants can indulge in tastings of wine, beer, and cider, with a souvenir included.
The minimum age for alcohol consumption is 18 years, and current valid ID may be requested for those appearing under 25.
With 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour has received rave reviews. Guests praise the friendliness and knowledge of the guides, as well as the enjoyable tastings and beautiful scenery.
The tour is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible. Single travelers are welcome, but a minimum of 2 people is required.
Read our full review: Small Group – Napier, Wine, Beer & Cider Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
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Small Group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Napier’s “Small Group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours” offers a delightful exploration of the region’s renowned wine and craft beer scene.
This highly-rated 5-star tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, takes guests on a comprehensive journey through Napier’s vibrant beverage landscape.
The tour includes visits to the country’s oldest winery, where participants learn about wine-making techniques, as well as a variety of local wineries and craft breweries. Guests can savor a wide range of wines and beers, complemented by a cheese board or platter.
The experience is further enhanced by the knowledgeable guide, who provides historical insights and personalized attention. The tour culminates with three glasses of beer at a local ale house, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable conclusion to the day.
With free pickup, hotel drop-off, and air-conditioned transportation, this tour offers a seamless and convenient way to take in Napier’s thriving wine and craft beer culture.
Read our full review: Small Group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
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Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour
Offering a captivating blend of Napier’s renowned wine and beer scene alongside its iconic Art Deco architecture, the Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience for cruise ship passengers.
Lasting half a day, the tour allows visitors to explore Napier’s history and transformation after the devastating 1931 earthquake, with guided visits to a historic winery and a local ale house for tastings.
Travelers will enjoy live commentary and the convenience of pickup and drop-off at designated meeting points, including the Port of Napier or the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
Suitable for adults 18 and over, the tour is wheelchair accessible and features a maximum group size of 20 travelers.
Based on overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the informative guides and the enjoyment of the wine and beer tastings, this tour is highly recommended for those seeking to enjoy Napier’s rich cultural and culinary offerings.
Read our full review: Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion: Small Group Napier Art Deco & Wine & Beer Taste
Exploring Napier’s rich cultural heritage and renowned beverage scene, the Small Group Napier Art Deco & Wine & Beer Taste shore excursion offers a captivating blend of experiences for cruise ship passengers.
This 4-hour tour, which consistently receives a 96% recommendation rate from travelers, takes small groups of up to 15 people on a journey through Napier’s stunning Art Deco architecture and two of the city’s premier wine and beer establishments.
Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the city’s iconic Art Deco buildings, complemented by three glasses of either beer or cider.
The excursion also includes a visit to the renowned Mission Estate Winery and a local brewery, where participants can indulge in tastings and learn about the region’s vibrant wine and beer culture.
Lunch options are available, and the tour concludes with an opportunity to explore the city center further.
With knowledgeable guides, scenic backdrops, and the chance to savor local libations, this shore excursion offers a well-rounded and highly recommended experience for visitors to Napier.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion: Small Group Napier Art Deco & Wine & Beer Taste Review
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Small Group – Beer, Wine, Cider and Gin Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Setting out on a captivating 5.5 to 6-hour journey, the Small Group Beer, Wine, Cider and Gin Tour in Napier, New Zealand, invites visitors to enjoy the region’s renowned beverage scene.
Accommodating up to 20 travelers, the tour offers a comprehensive tasting experience, encompassing a selection of 6-7 wines, a variety of beer and cider, and a flight of 3 distinct gins.
Complementing the tastings, guests will also enjoy a local cheese board and snacks, as well as non-alcoholic options like tea and coffee.
With hotel/port pickup and drop-off within Napier, the tour provides seamless transportation in an air-conditioned minivan.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, this small group experience allows participants to savor the flavors of Napier’s thriving beverage scene.
While not suitable for cruise ship passengers due to time constraints, the tour is accessible for strollers, though not wheelchair-accessible.
Guests must be a minimum of 18 years old, with ID potentially required for those under 25.
Read our full review: Small Group – Beer, Wine, Cider and Gin Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cancel the Tour at the Last Minute?
Most tour companies allow cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour. However, they may charge a fee for late cancellations. It’s best to review the company’s cancellation policy before booking to understand the terms.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code for the tour is generally casual, though participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Some tours may have specific requirements, so it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to ensure proper attire.
Are Tips Included in the Tour Price?
Tips are generally not included in the tour price. Guests are typically expected to tip the guide or driver at their own discretion, based on the quality of service provided during the tour.
Can I Bring Outside Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Generally, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions. Some tours may have designated areas for outside items.
Do I Need to Be 21 or Older to Participate?
Most drinking tours require participants to be 21 or older. Specific age requirements may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator before booking. Most tours won’t allow outside food or drinks to be brought on board.
The Sum Up
Napier offers a variety of drinking tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s renowned wines, beers, ciders, and gins. These tours range from 5.5 to 6 hours and cater to small groups, providing an intimate and customized experience. Whether you’re interested in sampling local libations, enjoying the art deco architecture, or both, Napier has a drinking tour that’s sure to delight.