Martinborough is one of New Zealand’s premier wine regions, famous for its lush vineyards, boutique wineries, and charming small-town vibe. What makes it stand out isn’t just the quality of its wines but the variety of ways you can experience this area. Whether you want to pedal your way through the countryside, indulge in guided tastings, or explore the coast, Martinborough offers tours tailored to different interests and energy levels. A standout for us is the Self-Guided Martinborough Wineries Bike Tour, which combines freedom, scenic views, and wine tasting into one memorable day. You can explore at your own pace, sample award-winning wines, and even enjoy a picnic—perfect for couples or those wanting a relaxed day out.
If you prefer more guided experiences, the Martinborough Wine and Food Tour with Lunch from Wellington offers a comprehensive look at the region’s delights, including artisan cheeses and chocolates. For adventure seekers, the Pinot to Palliser tour combines coastal scenery, hiking, and wine tasting in one full-day journey. And for those passionate about wine, the Private Martinborough Wine Tour for Wine Enthusiasts provides a tailored, in-depth experience with a qualified guide. Below, we break down each option to help you find the perfect fit.
1. Self Guided Martinborough Wineries Bike Tour
At number 1, our favorite is the Self-Guided Martinborough Wineries Bike Tour. For around $55.56 per person, you get a flexible, hands-on way to explore some of New Zealand’s top boutique wineries. This tour includes bike rentals, allowing you to set your own pace along scenic country roads dotted with vineyards and olive groves. The 2- to 8-hour timeframe means you can tailor it to your energy level—whether a quick afternoon or a full-day adventure.
What makes this tour stand out are the stops at unique wineries like Te Kairanga and olive groves such as Olivo. You’ll learn about the region’s winemaking heritage and sample some award-winning wines, all while enjoying the peaceful countryside. The included picnic lunch adds a personal touch, making it feel like a day spent among friends. Reviews highlight how easy and enjoyable it is, with one saying, “Renting bikes was the way to go,” and praising the friendly staff. This experience suits active travelers who love the outdoors and want the freedom to explore without rigid schedules.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, flexible way to sample Martinborough’s wines while enjoying the outdoors—ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone wanting independence on their wine journey.
2. Martinborough Wine and Food Tour with Lunch from Wellington
Second on our list is the Martinborough Wine and Food Tour with Lunch from Wellington, which offers a full-day, guided adventure into the region’s flavors. For $196, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring five wineries, tasting world-class wines, and sampling local artisan products like cheese, chocolate, and olive oil. The highlight is a scenic drive over the Remutaka Ranges, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape and relax.
This tour is perfect for those who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning. The included lunch overlooking the countryside adds a special touch, and the stops are carefully selected to showcase the region’s best. Visitors often remark on the excellent variety of tastings and the chance to learn about wine and food pairings from knowledgeable guides. This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire to dive into the region’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a comprehensive, guided day that combines wine, food, and stunning scenery—great for first-time visitors or food lovers.
3. Pinot to Palliser tour – Guided tour to Cape Palliser with lunch + wine tasting
Our third pick is the Pinot to Palliser tour, a full-day journey that combines coast, nature, and wine. Priced at about $198.61 per person, this tour takes you along the southern coast of New Zealand’s North Island. You’ll pass through the fishing village of Ngawi, see fascinating land formations, and visit a seal colony—great for wildlife lovers. The highlight is climbing the 250-plus steps at Cape Palliser to the lighthouse, where panoramic views of the sea are breathtaking.
After exploring the coast, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at the Lake Ferry Hotel, then return to Martinborough for a final wine tasting at a local winery. During reviews, visitors mention the scenic drive and the variety of experiences, from seal watching to lighthouse views. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure, scenic drives, and wine tasting all in one day.
Bottom Line: A scenic, active tour perfect for those who want to see more of New Zealand’s coast while enjoying wine and a good meal.
4. Private Martinborough Wine Tour for Wine Enthusiasts
Finally, for the serious wine lover, the Private Martinborough Wine Tour offers a highly personalized experience. For $213.79 per person, you’ll have a dedicated guide with a WSET3 qualification that ensures expert insights. The itinerary is flexible but typically includes visits to four top wineries, such as Palliser Estate and Ata Rangi. You’ll get behind-the-scenes access, like barrel tastings and guided walks through vineyard rows, learning about each winery’s philosophy and history.
Guests rave about the tailored approach, with one noting how the guide shared deep knowledge during tastings. This tour is best suited for wine aficionados eager to deepen their understanding and sample flagship wines in an intimate setting. It lasts about 7.5 hours, with a vineyard lunch included, often at a scenic winery. The private setup means fewer crowds and more focused attention, making it a superb choice for special occasions or dedicated wine enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: An immersive, expert-led experience designed for those passionate about wine and eager for a bespoke tour.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your interests. For active travelers who love outdoors, the Self-Guided Wineries Bike Tour offers flexibility and scenic beauty. If you prefer a guided, food-focused experience, the Wine and Food Tour covers a lot of ground in one day. For those craving coastlines and outdoor adventure, the Pinot to Palliser combines natural beauty with wine tasting. Finally, if you’re passionate about wine and want an in-depth, customized experience, the Private Tour is the way to go.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and tour type. Consider what suits your travel style—whether it’s independence, guided comfort, or an active coastal adventure.
Final Thoughts
Martinborough offers a fantastic variety of tours tailored to different tastes and activity levels. The bike tour appeals to those who love the outdoors and want to explore at their own pace, while guided experiences like the Wine and Food Tour or the Private Wine Tour cater to foodies and wine enthusiasts seeking depth and convenience. For adventure lovers, the coastal Pinot to Palliser offers a scenic journey full of outdoor activities.
Whatever your interest, these tours showcase the best of Martinborough’s wines, scenery, and local flavors. Booking early ensures you won’t miss out on experiencing this exceptional part of New Zealand.