Napier’s wine country offers straightforward, well-organized tours that match any wine lover’s style. The standout options combine great wine with memorable experiences. I especially love the Gourmet Luncheon Wine & Gin Taste tour for its excellent value and local food pairings. The Cape Coast tour by bike (regular or electric) gives you fresh air and exercise between tastings – it’s a wonderful way to experience the countryside. For a more intimate experience, the Small Group Napier Wine Experience keeps things personal while hitting the region’s best spots.
Let’s look at my recommended wine tours in detail.
Key Points
-
The Napier Gourmet Luncheon Wine & Gin Taste tour offers a highly recommended 5-6 hour experience featuring a gourmet platter lunch and guided wine and gin tastings.
-
The Cape Coast Winery Tour on Pedal or E-Bikes provides a 6-hour coastal cycling experience with stops at multiple award-winning wineries and praised for its helpful staff.
-
The Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour is a 4-5 hour personalized tour led by local guides, offering complimentary light refreshments and round-trip transfers.
-
The Small Group – Napier Wine Experience Tour is a 5.5-6 hour tour visiting four wineries, providing expert insights and a 98% recommendation rate.
-
The Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour allows independent travelers to cycle along the coast with stops at wineries, rated 4.9/5 for its scenic routes and friendly service.
Napier Gourmet Luncheon Wine & Gin Taste( Thurs Thru Sat)
One of the most popular wine tours in Napier is the Napier Gourmet Luncheon Wine & Gin Taste, which runs from Thursday through Saturday.
This small-group tour takes guests on a 5-6 hour journey, including a gourmet platter lunch at Mission Estate Winery, a guided wine-tasting session, and a gin tasting at the National Tobacco Company Building.
Guests also enjoy a cheese and crackers pairing at Askerne Estate and a grape-growing discussion.
The tour includes pickup from accommodations, wine-tasting fees, and a souvenir wine glass.
With a 99% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for wine enthusiasts visiting Napier.
Read our full review: Napier Gourmet Luncheon Wine & Gin Taste( Thurs Thru Sat) Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier: Cape Coast Winery Tour on Pedal or E-Bikes
The Napier: Cape Coast Winery Tour on Pedal or E-Bikes offers wine enthusiasts a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Cape Coast region.
Priced at €63.35 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a shuttle service, standard or electric bikes, and wine tastings at renowned local wineries.
Highlights include a 4km coastal ride to Clearview Estate and Elephant Hill, followed by a 16km journey along the Tuki Tuki River trail with breathtaking views of Te Mata Peak.
With stops at Askerne Estate, Te Mata Estate, and Black Barn Winery, the tour provides an immersive experience of the region’s renowned wine offerings.
Customer reviews praise the helpful staff, comfortable e-bikes, and enjoyable winery experiences, making this tour a must-try for wine enthusiasts visiting Napier.
Read our full review: Napier: Cape Coast Winery Tour on Pedal or E-Bikes Review
Book now: Check availability
Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour
This Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour offers a delightful opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore the renowned vineyards of the Hawke’s Bay region.
Chauffeured around to 4 different wineries, travelers will enjoy wine tasting and learn about winemaking techniques from local, professional guides. With a maximum group size of 11, the tour provides personal attention and the chance to interact with winemakers.
Complimentary light refreshments, including a cheeseboard, are included. Round-trip transfers from Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North make this tour convenient for both local and cruise ship passengers.
Overwhelmingly recommended by past travelers, this 4-5 hour tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic Hawke’s Bay wine experience.
Read our full review: Half Day Small-Group Hawkes Bay Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Small Group – Napier Wine Experience Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Spanning 5.5 to 6 hours, the Small Group – Napier Wine Experience Tour provides oenophiles an immersive exploration of Napier’s renowned wine region.
Guests visit four wineries, including New Zealand’s oldest, sampling a diverse range of locally produced wines while learning from an expert guide.
The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and round-trip transport from Napier hotels is included.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers excellent value at $104.13 per person.
While not suitable for cruise passengers, the experience is stroller-accessible and open to those 18 and older, making it a must-do for wine enthusiasts visiting Napier.
Read our full review: Small Group – Napier Wine Experience Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Hawkes Bay: Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour
Although not as well-known as Napier’s guided wine tours, the Hawkes Bay: Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour provides an exceptional opportunity for independent-minded travelers to explore the region’s renowned vineyards at their own pace.
Priced from $46.40 per person, this 6-hour experience allows visitors to cycle along the picturesque coast, stop at the Atea A Rangi Star Compass, and visit up to four wineries for tastings and lunch.
Included features such as a bike, helmet, and return transport make for a hassle-free adventure.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 and positive reviews highlighting the scenic routes and friendly service, this self-guided tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and personalized Hawkes Bay wine experience.
Read our full review: Hawkes Bay: Self Guided Coastal Winery Cycle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Small Group – Napier, Wine, Beer & Cider Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Offering a delightful exploration of Napier’s vibrant wine, beer, and cider scene, the Small Group – Napier, Wine, Beer & Cider Tour provides a comprehensive 5.5 to 6-hour experience for discerning travelers.
This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 16 guests, showcases the region’s finest producers with tastings of wine, beer, and cider. Highlights include unique winery visits, engaging tastings, and insights into local history from knowledgeable guides.
With free hotel/port pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and a complimentary souvenir, this tour offers an exceptional value. Suitable for adults 18 and over, the experience earns a 100% recommendation from past travelers and a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Small Group – Napier, Wine, Beer & Cider Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier: Wine and Gin Tasting Tour With Lunch
This 5.5-hour Napier Wine and Gin Tasting Tour with Lunch takes travelers on a captivating exploration of the region’s premier wineries and a renowned gin distillery.
Priced at $113.67 per person, the tour includes pickup, a gourmet platter lunch, wine tastings at the historic Mission Estate and Askerne Estate, and a gin tasting at the National Distillery.
Highlights include an informative vineyard talk, access to the Mission Estate’s underground cellar, and the opportunity to pair wines with cheese and biscuits.
With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 57 reviews, the tour offers excellent value, knowledgeable guides, and memorable experiences.
Read our full review: Napier: Wine and Gin Tasting Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Small Group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Discover Napier’s vibrant wine and craft beer scene on this small group tour, which takes visitors on an immersive 5.5 to 6-hour exploration.
Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour showcases the city’s oldest winery and local ale house, where participants enjoy three glasses of beer.
Throughout the experience, professional guides share insights into winemaking techniques and the region’s rich history.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to savor the flavors of Napier’s thriving beverage scene.
Pickup and drop-off service within the city is provided, making it a convenient option for those seeking an engaging and educational afternoon.
Read our full review: Small Group – Napier, Wine and Beer Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier: Art Deco Center, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting
On this comprehensive tour, travelers venture out to explore the highlights of Napier, from its iconic Art Deco architecture to the picturesque Te Mata Peak.
The 3-hour tour includes a visit to the Bluff Hill Lookout, wine and cheese tasting at Askerne Estate Winery, and stops at various scenic spots around the city.
With a maximum group size of 13, the tour offers a personalized experience. Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the value for money.
However, some feel the pace could be a bit rushed, and they’d appreciate more in-depth information about the Art Deco buildings.
Read our full review: Napier: Art Deco Center, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Cape Winery Cycle Tour – 6 Wineries, Self-Guided
The Cape Winery Cycle Tour invites adventurous travelers to explore Napier’s renowned wine region on a self-guided journey.
This immersive experience allows up to 15 participants to visit six local wineries at their own pace, cycling along scenic routes on electric or standard bikes.
The tour includes equipment, route instructions, and a provided lunch, though tasting fees aren’t included.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation, this tour offers an engaging way to discover Napier’s wine country, showcasing the area’s beautiful landscapes and acclaimed vintages.
Reviewers praise the helpful staff and enjoyable cycling, making this an ideal outing for wine enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Cape Winery Cycle Tour – 6 Wineries, Self-Guided Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier: Afternoon Wine Gin Tasting Tour
This immersive Napier: Afternoon Wine Gin Tasting Tour invites visitors to embark on a 4.5-hour journey through the region’s acclaimed vineyards and distilleries.
Priced from $92.21 per person, the tour includes tastings at two wineries, a gin distillery, and a cheese board.
Highlights include the historic Mission Estate, the National Gin Distillery, and the Askerne Estate. Guests can savor 4-7 wines at each winery and five gins at the distillery.
The tour provides pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and a Mission Estate branded wine glass.
Reviewers praise the tour’s enjoyable experiences and comfortable transportation. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Napier: Afternoon Wine Gin Tasting Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier City & Wine Private Tour – 6hrs – up to 5 People
Seeking a more immersive wine experience? The Napier City & Wine Private Tour may be the perfect option.
This 6-hour tour takes you to three top wineries in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s premier wine region. Along the way, you’ll learn about Napier’s rich culture and history from your professional guide.
The tour includes wine tastings, lunch, and coffee/tea, all while traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned luxury vehicle. With a maximum of 5 people, this private tour ensures a personalized experience.
Reviewers praise the attentive and humorous guides, great service, and enjoyable experiences. At $803.29 per group, it offers a lowest price guarantee, making it an excellent value for wine enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Napier City & Wine Private Tour – 6hrs – up to 5 People Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Prestigious Wine Tour in Napier
Visitors seeking an immersive and prestigious wine experience in Napier can embark on a private wine tour that showcases the region’s renowned vintages.
This 6-hour tour is suitable for travelers aged 18 and over, with alcoholic beverages and bottled water included. A knowledgeable guide leads the way, providing transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour starts and ends at the Napier Port, where the guide will greet the group and provide a seamless experience. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and infants can be accommodated. Special instructions are required for the ship name upon booking.
Read our full review: Private Prestigious Wine Tour in Napier Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour
Napier’s Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour offers travelers a captivating blend of the region’s renowned vintages, local ales, and iconic Art Deco architecture.
This half-day tour takes visitors on a journey through Napier’s rich history, including the city’s transformation after the devastating 1931 earthquake. Highlights include a visit to a historic winery, tastings at a local Ale House, and in-depth commentary on the city’s remarkable Art Deco buildings.
Accommodating up to 20 travelers, the tour provides a wheelchair-accessible, informative, and enjoyable experience for wine, beer, and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, delightful tastings, and the overall ease of the experience.
Read our full review: Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Napier Afternoon Wine, & Gin Tasting (Thurs Thru to Saturdays )
This Napier Afternoon Wine, & Gin Tasting (Thurs Thru to Saturdays) offers a delightful exploration of the Hawkes Bay wine region.
With a focus on both wine and gin, this small group tour takes visitors to several acclaimed vineyards, including the historic Mission Estate. Guests can stroll through the vineyards at Linden Estate and enjoy complimentary wine, cheese, and biscuits during the summer.
The tour’s knowledgeable guides, like the highly-rated Ross, provide local insights and history, elevating the overall experience.
Praised for its excellent communication and intimate group size, this tour boasts a 97% recommendation rate from 125 reviewers, earning it a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Napier Afternoon Wine, & Gin Tasting (Thurs Thru to Saturdays ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion: Small Group Napier Art Deco & Wine & Beer Taste
A captivating shore excursion awaits visitors to Napier, blending the city’s iconic Art Deco architecture with a tantalizing exploration of the Hawke’s Bay wine and beer scene.
This half-day small group tour includes sightseeing, wine tastings at New Zealand’s oldest winery, and three local beverage samples at a brewery.
Travelers will appreciate the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to enjoy Napier’s rich history and vibrant culture.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour offers an engaging and well-organized experience for those seeking to discover the best of Napier’s art, wine, and beer.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion: Small Group Napier Art Deco & Wine & Beer Taste Review
Book now: Check availability
Deco Napier, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting
Traversing Napier’s breathtaking landscape, the Deco Napier, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting tour enchants visitors with a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and local flavors.
Rated 4.5 stars by 71 travelers, this highly-reviewed excursion immerses guests in Napier’s renowned art deco architecture, the stunning vistas of Te Mata Peak, and the region’s acclaimed wines and cheeses.
Lasting approximately 3.5 hours, the tour accommodates up to 13 travelers and includes shuttle service, live commentary, and a visit to a local winery for tastings.
While most guests rave about the experience, some note issues with delays and suggest improvements to communication and itinerary adjustments to enhance the overall tour.
Read our full review: Deco Napier, Te Mata Peak, Wine & Cheese Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Wine Tour and Tastings in Hawkes Bay
Napier’s wine tour and tastings in the Hawkes Bay region offer visitors an immersive experience that showcases the area’s acclaimed viticulture.
Operated by Avantogo Tours, this private tour takes guests to 3-4 family-run vineyards for wine tastings and a gourmet cheese platter.
The tour’s 38 reviews, all from satisfied travelers, attest to the guide’s expertise, the unique winery experiences, and the fun, small-group atmosphere.
Priced from $166.61 per person, the tour includes all alcoholic beverages and pickup from the Napier I-Site.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour’s flexible schedule and convenient location make it an attractive option for exploring Hawkes Bay’s renowned wine scene.
Read our full review: Wine Tour and Tastings in Hawkes Bay Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Sightseeing Tour + Wine Tasting (4 Hrs)
Setting out on a private sightseeing tour and wine tasting experience, visitors to Napier can enjoy the region’s renowned viticulture.
This 4-hour tour provides a rundown, led by a friendly, professional local driver/guide. Guests will explore Napier in a private, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy a wine tasting at a premier winery.
Cruise ship passengers can easily access the tour with special arrangements for pickup. With a maximum of 5 people per booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour offers a flexible and personalized experience.
Priced at €595.90 per group, it’s an excellent way to discover Napier’s rich wine heritage.
Read our full review: Private Sightseeing Tour + Wine Tasting (4 Hrs) Review
Book now: Check availability
Small Group – Beer, Wine, Cider and Gin Tour – 5.5 – 6 Hours
Visitors can often enjoy Napier’s diverse beverage scene on this small-group beer, wine, cider, and gin tour.
The 5.5-6 hour experience includes tastings at a cider brewery, winery, and gin distillery, as well as an ale house. Guests can sample 3 cider/beer/vodka/sangria options, 6-7 wines, 3 gins, and 3 ales, beers or ciders.
The tour also includes local cheese and snacks, and a souvenir. Transportation is provided via air-conditioned minivan, with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
The minimum age to consume alcohol is 18, and valid ID may be requested. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience offers a personalized touch.
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 Bring My Own Food on the Wine Tour?
Most wine tours allow guests to bring their own food, as it can complement the wine tasting experience. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure their policy permits outside food.
Are Children Allowed on the Wine Tours?
Most wine tours welcome children, but policies vary. Some may have age restrictions or require children to be supervised. It’s best to check with the tour operator before booking to ensure the tour is suitable for your family.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Most wine tours accommodate dietary restrictions, allowing guests with special dietary needs to participate. They typically offer alternative food and drink options to ensure all visitors can fully enjoy the experience.
Can I Purchase Wine Directly From the Wineries?
Visitors can typically purchase wines directly from the wineries during the wine tours. Many wineries offer on-site sales and allow customers to sample and buy their products. However, availability may vary depending on the specific winery and tour.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
Visitors can get to the starting point of wine tours through various means, such as self-driving, taking a shuttle service, or booking a guided tour that includes transportation. Many wineries and tour operators offer convenient pick-up and drop-off options for a seamless experience.
The Sum Up
Napier offers a variety of wine tours catering to different interests and preferences. Visitors can enjoy gourmet luncheons, pedal or e-bike tours, small-group experiences, self-guided cycles, and even combined with sightseeing and tastings of other local beverages. Whether looking for a leisurely day or a more comprehensive wine experience, Napier’s wine tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s renowned vineyards and sample its exceptional wines.