Jade Carving, Honey & Wine Tasting Private Tour

Discovering Matakana: An Authentic Day of Art, Flavour, and Nature

If you’re considering a day trip just outside Auckland, this private Jade Carving, Honey & Wine Tasting Tour offers a thoughtful blend of artistic craftsmanship, local wines, and natural beauty. While the $868.80 price tag per person might seem steep at first glance, the experience’s depth, personalized touches, and access to hidden gems make it a compelling choice for travelers craving authentic, hands-on adventures.

Two aspects really stand out: the chance to create your own Pounamu (Jade) necklace alongside a local artist and the opportunity to sample some of New Zealand’s finest wines in a stunning setting. The combination of art, taste, and scenery makes for a memorable day. That said, the tour is quite full, and with a 9-hour duration, it requires good energy and a love for diverse experiences.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to learn about local craftsmanship, enjoy excellent wines, and appreciate a mix of scenic and cultural stops in a private, relaxed setting. If you’re after a more laid-back, immersive day that balances artistry and taste with genuine Kiwi hospitality, this experience will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: As a private tour, it caters entirely to your group, ensuring a relaxed pace and tailored attention.
• Authentic Craftsmanship: The jade carving session offers a chance to learn from a local artist and take home a handcrafted necklace.
• Stunning Scenery: The Brick Bay Sculpture Trail combines native bush and contemporary art, offering a peaceful walk amid striking sculptures.
• Gourmet Tasting: Enjoy a curated wine tasting in a beautiful setting, complemented by lunch in a glasshouse restaurant overlooking vineyards.
• Natural Learning: Honey tasting and a native bush walk provide insight into New Zealand’s flora and the vital role bees play.
• Convenient Transportation: Private, air-conditioned transport with WiFi ensures comfort and ease throughout the day.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail: Art Meets Nature

The day kicks off with a visit to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, a 2 km outdoor walk in native bush and vineyards. This trail is home to over 60 contemporary sculptures by New Zealand artists, artfully integrated into the landscape. We loved the way the artworks blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings — it’s not just about viewing art, but experiencing it in a thoughtfully curated environment.

The sculptures are diverse, ranging from abstract forms to more figurative pieces, all situated around a tranquil lake where you can pause and soak in the views. The admission ticket is included, and the walk usually takes about an hour, giving you plenty of time to admire and photograph. Afterward, many visitors enjoy a meal or a drink at The Glass House, which overlooks the lake, offering seasonal food alongside local wines. It’s a peaceful, inspiring start to your exploration.

Matakana Village: Charm and Local Treasures

From the sculpture trail, the tour moves into Matakana Village, a lively hub renowned for its artisan shops and friendly atmosphere. Here, you can browse boutique stores offering local crafts, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs. For many, this stops provides a chance to pick up a handcrafted memento or enjoy a quick coffee break.

Wine Tasting & Lunch: A Gourmet Affair

Next, you’ll indulge in a relaxed wine tasting in a stunning setting — a glasshouse restaurant suspended above vineyards and gardens. This isn’t just about sampling wine; it’s about savoring some of the best regional vintages in a sophisticated yet laid-back environment. The wines are carefully curated, and the scenic views add to the experience.

Following the tasting, a delicious lunch in the glasshouse completes the culinary part of your day. The combination of fine wine, fresh food, and panoramic scenery is a highlight, allowing you to unwind and appreciate New Zealand’s vinicultural craftsmanship.

Hands-On Jade Carving: Art You Can Wear

One of the tour’s unique highlights is learning how to carve Pounamu (Jade) with a local artist. This hands-on activity is not only fun but also educational. You’ll get to craft your own necklace, a meaningful keepsake of your trip, and gain insight into the cultural significance of jade in Maori tradition. The artist guides you through the process, making it accessible even if you’re new to carving. Many visitors appreciate this authentic interaction, as it offers a tangible connection to New Zealand’s indigenous art.

Honey & Nature Walk: Sweet and Scenic

The final part of the tour involves a honey tasting paired with a short native bush walk. Here, you’ll learn about local flora and how bees contribute to the environment. The experience is casual but informative, turning what might seem like a simple tasting into an educational moment about conservation and the importance of native plants.

Transportation & Comfort

You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, ensuring a comfortable ride between stops. The flexibility of a private tour means timings are more relaxed, and your driver-guide can adapt to your interests or pace. The convenience of door-to-door pickup simplifies logistics, allowing you to focus fully on enjoying the experience.

What Do We Think About the Value?

While $868.80 per person might raise eyebrows, it reflects a comprehensive, personalized day that combines cultural, artistic, and gastronomic elements. The tour covers multiple high-quality experiences — from art and wine to craft and nature — all in a single day with private transportation and guided insights.

The inclusion of all entry tickets, tastings, and a hands-on activity adds tangible value, especially given the intimate nature of a private group. Plus, the chance to create your own Jade pendant is a rare, meaningful souvenir that’s hard to beat. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-rounded, authentic adventure with personalized attention, the price is justified.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a private, customizable day outside Auckland.
• Love art, especially traditional crafts like jade carving.
• Enjoy sampling wines in scenic, relaxed settings.
• Are curious about native flora and bee conservation.
• Appreciate artisanal shopping and authentic local experiences.
• Seek a full day of diverse activities in a manageable, intimate format.

It’s less suitable for those on a strict budget or travelers looking for a high-energy, fast-paced tour. The 9-hour duration requires a good level of comfort with a full day out, but for those who thrive on variety and personalized touches, it’s a rewarding choice.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi on board, making the journey comfortable and convenient.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Can I customize the experience?
As a private tour, it offers some flexibility, though the itinerary details are set. Your guide can answer questions and may adapt slightly to your interests.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult; the tour’s focus on jade carving and tastings makes it best for adults or older teens.

What dietary options are available?
Vegetarian options are available—just advise at the time of booking if needed. Please inform the tour provider of any specific dietary requirements.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age for participating in wine tasting is 18 years old.

What is included in the price?
All entry tickets, guided tours, tastings (wine and honey), lunch, a jade carving session, bottled water, snacks, and taxes are included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Can I join this tour if I’m arriving on a cruise?
Yes, just provide your ship’s details, docking time, disembarkation, and re-boarding info when booking.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of 2 people is required for the tour to operate.

Final Thoughts: A Genuine, Artistic, and Tasty Day Out

For those seeking an authentic taste of New Zealand’s craftsmanship, scenic beauty, and culinary delights, this private tour offers a well-structured, multi-sensory experience. It balances cultural learning with leisure, making it perfect for curious travelers who prefer a more intimate, personalized outing.

From wandering among contemporary sculptures to crafting a jade necklace, each activity provides a meaningful connection to the region’s artistry and traditions. The wine and honey tastings add a flavorful dimension, complemented by stunning views and relaxed pace.

While the cost may seem high, the value lies in the variety, quality, and personalized attention that a private tour delivers. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day exploring beyond Auckland, this experience promises a blend of art, taste, and scenery that’s hard to beat.

In sum, if you’re eager for a day that combines hands-on art, fine wine, and natural beauty with the comfort of private transportation, this tour is a thoughtfully curated choice for a truly memorable adventure.