Wanaka isn’t just about stunning mountains and outdoor adventures; it’s also a top spot for wine lovers looking to taste some of New Zealand’s finest pinot noirs and other boutique wines. What makes Wanaka especially appealing for wine tours is its unique blend of land, culture, and scenery—offering a more authentic and often intimate experience than bigger regions. Our favorite? The Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wanaka () stands out because it seamlessly combines wine tasting with a live Māori haka and cultural insights, making it more than just a sip-and-see. It’s a chance to understand the land’s deeper story while enjoying excellent wines at boutique wineries.
If you’re short on time, the ‘Express’ Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wanaka () offers a quick, enriching taste of land, wine, and Māori tradition in just three hours. For those who want a full-day deep dive, the Classic Wanaka Wine Tour () visits up to six wineries with a gourmet lunch, perfect for connoisseurs. For a more active experience, the ebike tour lake Dunstan wine tasting () lets you pedal between vineyards, combining outdoor fun with wine tasting.
1. Wine Tour & Maori Culture Wanaka
At number 1, this half-day experience offers a rare combination: tasting local boutique wines—mainly pinot noir—and engaging with Māori culture. The tour visits three small, personalized wineries, and you’ll sample 15-20 wines, matched with local produce. What sets this apart is the inclusion of a live Māori haka, giving you an authentic insight into the indigenous traditions and connection to the land.
The tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, culturally enriching experience without the rush. Round-trip hotel transfers are included, so no worries about getting lost or finding a sober driver. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guide, Joe, who shared his 25 years of expertise and even explained Māori symbols and traditions. One guest raved, “Joe is an excellent guide, and we learned a lot about Māori culture while enjoying local wines.” The small group size means a more intimate, authentic feel—perfect for those who prefer personal attention.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a cultural connection paired with exquisite wine tasting in a relaxed setting. It offers excellent value with a mix of land, tradition, and flavors.
2. ‘Express’ Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wanaka
The ‘Express’ Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wanaka hits the sweet spot for a shorter, yet meaningful experience. In just about 3 hours, you visit two wineries—likely Rippon and Maude, depending on the day—and enjoy tastings that include regional specialties. The focus here is on quality over quantity, with small-group intimacy capped at six participants.
This tour is perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want to explore Māori traditions alongside your wine. The tour includes hotel pickup, making it hassle-free, and the guide explains the cultural significance of the land and wines. Guests note the personalized service and the opportunity to learn about Māori history in a digestible format. One review calls it “a fun and enriching experience,” praising the guide’s storytelling.
Bottom line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a focused, cultural, and wine-rich experience without sacrificing depth.
3. Classic Wanaka Wine Tour
For around $231, the Classic Wanaka Wine Tour () offers a full-day exploration of Central Otago’s renowned wine region. You’ll visit up to six boutique vineyards, sampling pinot noirs, chardonnays, and more. The tour includes a gourmet lunch at one of the wineries, giving you a chance to enjoy local produce paired with the region’s best wines.
What makes this tour stand out is the comprehensive itinerary and the scenic backdrop of the high-altitude vineyards. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guide, Heidi, who shared fascinating insights about each winery and the landscape. The small-group size ensures you get personalized attention, and the included hotel transfers make logistics effortless. Guests particularly love the “stunning photos” opportunity from the vineyards and the chance to sample up to 30 wines.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for serious wine enthusiasts who appreciate a full day of tasting, scenery, and gourmet food, all with a relaxed pace.
4. ebike tour lake Dunstan wine tasting
At number 4, this e-bike tour combines outdoor activity with wine tasting. Starting with a brief safety orientation, you’ll pedal along flat, wide trails perfect for beginners, exploring the scenic surrounds of Lake Dunstan. During the approximately six-hour trip, you visit food and drink venues, tasting local wines and enjoying the fresh air.
This experience is great if you prefer active, self-guided exploration. The bikes are high-quality and well-maintained, with safety gear included. While it’s not guided, staff provide maps and are nearby if needed. Reviewers highlight the professional organization and the “great quality” bikes. It’s suited for those who enjoy outdoor fun with a bit of wine on the side.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers wanting an independent, scenic wine adventure without the constraints of a guided tour.
5. Wine Tasting Adventure Wanaka and Beyond
Number 5 offers a full-day tour across Wanaka, Cromwell, Bannockburn, and Bendigo, visiting five different regions. This is the most extensive option, with visits tailored to the day’s conditions, including wineries like Pisa and Mt. Difficulty. The lunch is included, featuring local produce and regional wines. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Central Otago’s diverse terroirs.
What makes this tour special is the insider access to winemakers and the chance to see a variety of styles. Reviewers mention “Michelle, the guide, was very knowledgeable and friendly,” and the experience felt “like a day with friends.” The multiple stops, scenic drives, and opportunity to buy bottles directly from the winemakers make it highly valuable.
Bottom line: This is suited for serious wine lovers eager to explore multiple regions and learn about winemaking from passionate producers.
6. Lake Wanaka 1-Hour Cruise Including Wine and Cheese Board
For a relaxing, scenic experience, consider this cruise on Lake Wanaka. It’s a one-hour sunset cruise with wine, beer, or soft drinks in hand, plus a complimentary cheeseboard. You’ll glide past landmarks like Ruby Island, soaking in views of the Southern Alps.
It’s not a traditional wine tour but a perfect pre-dinner activity. Reviewers love the stunning sunset views and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s great for families or couples wanting a casual, scenic experience with a bit of wine and cheese.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a laid-back, scenic cruise rather than a full tasting experience, but an excellent way to enjoy Wanaka’s beauty.
7. Wine Tour with Wine Tasting from Wanaka
At number 7, this afternoon tour visits four boutique wineries, including Rippon, Maude, and others, with tastings and a gourmet food pairing at one stop. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, guided experience focused on regional wines.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guide Heidi, who shared insights about the wines and the region. The tour’s pace allows for personal questions and tasting at each stop, ensuring you get a good overview without feeling rushed. The inclusive hotel transfers add convenience, making it a hassle-free option.
Bottom line: Well-suited for wine lovers wanting a comprehensive, guided tasting in the afternoon with a focus on boutique wineries.
8. Wanaka: Afternoon Boutique Wine Tour
This slightly shorter, five-hour tour visits four boutique vineyards around Wanaka, tasting up to 20 regional wines. Guests enjoy a gourmet platter and the chance to see the breathtaking scenery. It’s ideal for those wanting a more intimate, relaxed wine experience without a full-day commitment.
The small group size ensures personal attention, and the focus on boutique wineries means tasting unique, high-quality wines. Reviewers note the beautiful scenery and the delicious local food pairing as highlights.
Bottom line: Great for wine enthusiasts who prefer a shorter, more personal experience with quality wines and scenery.
$158 per person
9. Wanaka: E-Bike Ride, Wine Tour, and Lunch Combo
Number 9 combines outdoor activity with wine tasting in a full-day tour. You’ll enjoy an e-bike ride from Hawea to Wanaka, visiting three wineries for tastings, ending with a three-course barrel-cooked lunch. It’s perfect for active travelers who want outdoor adventure alongside premium wine.
The guide shares stories about Wanaka’s history and terroir, and the full-day format allows plenty of time to explore and relax. Guests love the scenic ride and the delicious local food. The combination of outdoor activity and wine makes it a more dynamic experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for adventurous wine lovers seeking a full immersive day combining outdoor cycling, wine, and gourmet dining.
$234 per person
10. Wanaka: Full Day Classic Wine Tour with Lunch
The full-day classic wine tour () visits six boutique vineyards and offers tastings of up to 30 wines, with a five-course lunch paired with regional wines. It’s aimed at serious oenophiles wanting an in-depth exploration of Central Otago.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to sample a wide range of wines. The scenic drives and delicious multi-course lunch elevate the experience. It’s the most comprehensive tour for those who want the ultimate wine tasting day.
Bottom line: Perfect for dedicated wine connoisseurs wanting to maximize their tasting experience in one day.
$222 per person
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Wanaka
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want an authentic cultural connection, the Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wanaka is your best bet. For those pressed for time but still eager to explore, the ‘Express’ Tour delivers a meaningful slice of land and tradition.
Serious wine lovers should consider the Full Day Classic Tour or the Wine Tasting from Wanaka, which offer extensive tastings and gourmet meals. Active travelers will enjoy the e-bike tour, combining scenic riding with wine. If a relaxing, scenic experience is more your style, the Lake Wanaka cruise provides a beautiful sunset with wine and cheese.
When booking, consider the group size, as smaller groups often mean more personal attention, and check whether hotel transfers are included. Booking early during high season ensures you get your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Wanaka offers a fantastic variety of wine tours tailored to different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a cultural experience, a full-day tasting, or an active outdoor adventure, there’s something for all. For a deep dive into boutique wines, the full-day options are hard to beat. If cultural insights and a more relaxed pace appeal, the Maori-culture-connected tours will enrich your visit.
Remember, these tours tend to book early, especially in the peak season. Whichever tour suits your style, you’ll enjoy tasting some of New Zealand’s best wines amid stunning scenery. Cheers to your Wanaka wine adventure!