Wine touring in Christchurch centers on the excellent Waipara Valley, just 45 minutes north of the city. Several reliable operators run half and full-day tours ranging from $99-$117 per person, making this an affordable way to experience New Zealand wine country.
I’m especially fond of the small-group tours (usually 8 people max), which stop at 4-5 wineries and include lunch. These intimate experiences let you really connect with local winemakers while avoiding the crowds. The helicopter tours, though pricier, offer stunning aerial views that showcase how the region’s unique geography influences its wines.
Let’s look at the best wine tours Christchurch has to offer.
Key Points
- The Waipara Wine Trail Tours offer a half-day wine tasting experience with up to 15 samples, including award-winning pinot gris and riesling.
- The Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch provides a unique helicopter tour with organic and biodynamic wine tastings paired with gourmet cuisine.
- The All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour offers a flexible, small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, snacks, and lunch starting at $104.73 per person.
- The Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara provide an intimate, personalized experience for private groups of up to 6 people, starting at $117.29 per person.
- The Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch is a highly rated option, priced at $99.11 per person, with pickups from 16 locations and visits to three wineries.
Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour From Christchurch
This half-day Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour from Christchurch offers an opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore the renowned Waipara wine region.
Departing from Christchurch, the tour takes visitors to three boutique vineyards, where they can sample up to 15 different wines. The experience includes an air-conditioned transfer, live commentary, and a plattered lunch option.
Highlights include award-winning pinot gris and riesling from Waipara Hills, sustainable viticulture at Pegasus Bay Winery, and hand-crafted gewürztraminer and sauvignon blanc at Torlesse Wines.
Waipara Springs Winery also offers tastings of older vintages. With rave reviews and accessibility for wheelchair users and strollers, this tour is a fantastic way to discover the flavors of Waipara.
Read our full review: Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour From Christchurch Review
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Christchurch: Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch
Soaring above the picturesque North Canterbury countryside, this Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts.
Over 3.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a helicopter flight to renowned wineries like Black Estate or Greystone, where you’ll savor organic, biodynamic wines paired with delicious cuisine.
The tour includes three wine tastings, allowing you to explore the flavors of the region.
While lunch isn’t included, there are options available during the journey.
With panoramic views and a thrilling helicopter ride, this tour is a must for anyone seeking an exceptional winery experience in Christchurch.
Read our full review: Christchurch: Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch Review
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All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour From Christchurch
Departing from Christchurch, this all-inclusive wine tour immerses visitors in the Waipara region‘s renowned vineyards and wineries. Rated 4.5 stars, the tour receives praise for its excellent wine, food, and knowledgeable guides like Paul, Roger, and Tania.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour offers flexible pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and all-inclusive perks like snacks, lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
While some participants note issues with cramped vehicles and lack of historical context, the majority recommend the experience. Priced from $104.73 per person, the tour operates select days of the week and is available through 2025.
Read our full review: All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour From Christchurch Review
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From Christchurch: Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara
Nestled just north of Christchurch, the Waipara Valley is a premier wine region renowned for its warm, dry climate and limestone-rich soils that produce award-winning vintages.
For those seeking an intimate wine tasting experience, the Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara offer a 5.5-hour journey through 3-4 boutique wineries. Priced from $117.29 per person, the private group tours (up to 6 people) provide access to smaller vineyards unavailable to larger groups.
Participants can enjoy wine tastings and optional additions like winery platters or gourmet meals, all while traveling in a luxury MPV. With a flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides, these tours offer an exceptional opportunity to sample New Zealand’s finest wines in the Waipara Valley.
Read our full review: From Christchurch: Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara Review
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Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch
The Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch is a unique experience that combines the thrill of a helicopter ride with the opportunity to indulge in exceptional local wines and a gourmet meal.
Located in Christchurch, New Zealand, this tour offers a 5-star vineyard experience with a maximum of 6 travelers.
The 11 AM start time and $529.64 per person price tag include a wine tasting and a lunch valued at $115 per person.
While additional purchases are excluded, guests should be prepared for walking on uneven terrain.
With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for special occasions.
Read our full review: Canterbury Winery Heli Lunch Review
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From Christchurch: Full-Day Wine Tour With Lunch
This full-day wine tour from Christchurch offers a delightful way to explore the renowned Waipara wine region.
Priced at $99.11 per person, the tour includes pickup from 16 locations, a small group size, and a live English-speaking guide.
Highlights include stops at three wineries for tastings and a leisurely lunch at Waipara Springs Winery.
Travelers will also enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque Waipara countryside.
The tour includes amenities like bottled water, snacks, and exclusive cellar door discounts.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from previous guests, this wine tour is a must-try for oenophiles visiting Christchurch.
Read our full review: From Christchurch: Full-Day Wine Tour With Lunch Review
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Lyttelton Shore Excursion – Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch
Exploring the renowned Waipara wine region, this shore excursion from Lyttelton offers cruise ship travelers a delightful opportunity to indulge in the local vintages.
After comfortable transport, visitors embark on a tasting tour of three wineries, sampling acclaimed Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.
The highlight is lunch at Waipara Springs Winery, praised for its delicious food and scenic setting.
Recommended by 90% of travelers, the tour accommodates all abilities and dietary needs.
With flexible schedules and competitive pricing, it’s an excellent way to discover the region’s exceptional wines during a Christchurch visit.
Read our full review: Lyttelton Shore Excursion – Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch Review
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Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or More, Inc Tastings and Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive wine experience in the acclaimed Waipara Valley need look no further than the Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or more.
This 5-star tour includes wine tastings and a delicious lunch, all led by a knowledgeable sommelier guide. With a maximum of 6 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention as you visit family-owned wineries and sample their exceptional Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs.
The tour’s stunning views of the Waipara Valley provide the perfect backdrop for this memorable experience. Priced at just $107.18 per person, this tour is a must for wine enthusiasts visiting Christchurch.
Read our full review: Waipara Wine Experience for 2 or More, Inc Tastings and Lunch Review
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Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour
The Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour offers an immersive experience that seamlessly combines the best of the region’s renowned vineyards and the vibrant city of Christchurch.
This luxury, small-group tour provides a comprehensive itinerary, including visits to local wineries, an afternoon tea, and a delectable lunch.
The tour is accessible, with a maximum of 8 travelers, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned minivan for transportation.
With a 100% recommendation rate from previous travelers, this tour is a must-consider for anyone seeking to explore Christchurch’s wine scene and city highlights in style.
Read our full review: Wine Trail and Christchurch City Day Tour Review
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Full-Day Akaroa Tour With Penguins Safari and Wine Tasting
This full-day adventure immerses visitors in the stunning natural landscapes and unique wildlife of the Banks Peninsula, just a stone’s throw from the vibrant city of Christchurch.
The tour features a guided nature safari at a wild penguin colony, where travelers can learn about conservation efforts.
Afterward, guests enjoy a wine tasting and afternoon platter, exploring the French-inspired culture of the charming town of Akaroa.
The tour includes pickup from centrally located Christchurch hotels, an air-conditioned vehicle, and complimentary coffee, tea, and WiFi.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this personalized experience offers excellent value for money and receives rave reviews for its friendly operators and engaging commentary.
Read our full review: Full-Day Akaroa Tour With Penguins Safari and Wine Tasting Review
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Private Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour With Optional Gourmet Lunch
Explore the acclaimed Waipara Valley on this private wine tasting tour from Christchurch.
Enjoy a full-day excursion with transportation in a comfortable Mercedes Benz van, visiting four renowned wineries for tastings.
Opt for a delightful 2-course lunch at one of the wineries.
Pickup and drop-off at your preferred location in Christchurch are included, along with complimentary Wi-Fi and light refreshments.
With a maximum of your group, this private tour ensures a personalized experience.
Discover the region’s exceptional wines, explore the scenic countryside, and savor the gourmet lunch in this comprehensive Waipara Valley adventure.
Rated 5.0 by previous guests, this tour offers excellent value for money.
Read our full review: Private Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour With Optional Gourmet Lunch Review
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Akaroa Eco-Safari With Alpaca Farm Tour and Wine Tasting
Embarking on an Akaroa Eco-Safari provides visitors with a captivating opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of the region.
This 5-star tour takes travelers on an interactive journey through an alpaca farm, where they can learn about these gentle creatures up-close.
The experience is further enhanced by a wine tasting and afternoon platter, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the local vineyards.
Convenience is ensured with pickups from central Christchurch hotels and an air-conditioned vehicle.
Amenities like WiFi, coffee, and tea add to the comfort of the tour.
With a maximum of 15 participants, this eco-safari offers an intimate and personalized experience for nature and wine enthusiasts alike.
Read our full review: Akaroa Eco-Safari With Alpaca Farm Tour and Wine Tasting Review
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Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour
For visitors arriving in Christchurch via cruise ship, the Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour provides a captivating blend of local sightseeing and wine tasting.
This 18-person tour takes guests to three Waipara wineries for tastings and lunch, while also including a city highlights tour.
Travelers praise the personable guides, but reviews on winery experiences are mixed, with some criticizing service and quality.
To enhance the overall experience, the tour operator may consider re-evaluating winery partnerships and addressing any service issues.
With a 4.5 rating based on 12 reviews, this tour offers a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Christchurch’s local highlights and sample the region’s renowned wines.
Read our full review: Lyttelton Shore Excursion – City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of the Wine Tours?
The average duration of wine tours typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours, allowing visitors to explore multiple wineries, taste a variety of wines, and learn about the winemaking process in-depth.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Most wine tour providers allow customers to customize their itineraries to suit their preferences. This gives you the flexibility to visit wineries that interest you and tailor the experience to your tastes.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Groups?
Many tour companies offer group discounts and package deals for wine tours. These can provide significant savings, especially for larger groups. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour operators about their specific group pricing and package options.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?
Many wine tour companies accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Travelers should check with the specific tour operator to ensure their needs are met during the wine-tasting experience.
What Should I Bring Along for the Wine Tasting Experiences?
When enjoying wine tasting experiences, it’s recommended to bring a small notebook to jot down your impressions, a water bottle to stay hydrated, and a light snack to cleanse your palate between tastings. Wearing comfortable shoes is also advised.
The Sum Up
Christchurch offers a range of excellent wine tours, from the Waipara Wine Trail to helicopter-accessed winery lunches. Visitors can explore the local vineyards, sample award-winning wines, and enjoy scenic drives and unique experiences. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, Christchurch has a wine tour to suit your interests and preferences.