Craft beers & car museums – Full Day Tour incl beverage samples

An Authentic Day of Cars, Craft Beers, and Coastal Charm in Wellington

If you’re craving a blend of automotive history, local brews, and scenic landscapes, this full-day tour in Wellington offers a well-rounded experience. Priced at $168.90 per person and lasting roughly 6.5 hours, it takes you from the city center to the stunning Kapiti Coast, showcasing two impressive car museums and the vibrant local scene in Petone. The trip kicks off with pickup service, making it smooth from start to finish, and includes admission to notable sites and a drinks paddle for those of legal drinking age.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see world-class collections like the Southward Car Museum, which houses hundreds of vehicles in a purpose-built space, and the private Cars Inc collection—rare glimpses into automotive craftsmanship and innovation. Plus, the leisurely stroll along Jackson Street in Petone, with its charming cafes and shops, offers a taste of local life. The scenic drive along Transmission Gully provides breathtaking views of Wellington’s rugged coast, making the journey as memorable as the destinations.

One thing to consider is the duration—at over six hours, it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with several hours of sightseeing and walking. Also, since alcohol is involved, participants must be over 18, and this might not suit those with tight schedules or limited mobility. This tour offers an excellent value for those eager to explore Wellington’s automotive heritage and enjoy some local beverages in a relaxed setting, especially if you appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

This tour is perfect for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of local craft beers who want a comprehensive, enjoyable day out combining cultural sights with scenic drives. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a mix of education, leisure, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Diverse Highlights: Combines car museums, coastal scenery, and local eateries in one day.
• Exclusive Access: Features private collections like Cars Inc, offering unique vehicle displays.
• Relaxed Pace: Designed for comfort with plenty of time at each stop, including a leisurely walk through Petone.
• Authentic Experiences: Tastes of New Zealand’s finest beverages and insights from friendly guides.
• Scenic Drive: The route along Transmission Gully offers stunning views of Wellington’s rugged coast.
• Value for Money: Includes entry fees, a drinks paddle, and pickup, making it a straightforward, all-in-one outing.

The Complete Review: Car Museums, Coastal Views, and Craft Beers in Wellington

Starting Point and First Impressions

Our day begins with a convenient pickup at the isite Bus Pickup Point on Wakefield Street, ensuring a hassle-free start. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the ride comfortable, especially when heading out along Wellington’s streets and onto the scenic Transmission Gully motorway. Early on, you’ll appreciate the professional yet friendly vibe of the guides, who offer insightful commentary along the way.

The Marine Memorial in Paekakariki

The first noteworthy stop is the US Marine Memorial in Paekakariki. While brief—about 15 minutes—it’s a poignant reminder of Wellington’s role in WWII. We liked how the guide explained the history behind the memorial, giving context to the wartime significance of the area. It’s an easy, respectful pause before heading further along the coast.

The Southward Car Museum: An Automotive Treasure Trove

The highlight for many will be the Southward Car Museum, which we agree is truly world class. Located amidst tranquil parkland, it’s a sprawling showcase of more than 400 vehicles. Inside, the gleaming chrome and vintage metal create a visual feast. The museum’s layout, designed specifically for the purpose, allows visitors to wander comfortably across two levels, absorbing the stories behind each collection.

What makes this museum stand out is not just the quantity but the quality—vintage cars, rare European models, and even race cars, all set against a backdrop of natural light and thoughtful displays. The guide mentioned that the museum is the legacy of a passionate vehicle lover, which clearly shows in the curated selection.

Transit Through Upper Hutt and the Cars Inc Collection

Next, we head southward, passing through Upper Hutt, affectionately called the “Detroit” of Wellington due to its automotive heritage. Here, we visit Cars Inc, a private collection owned by Paul and Jen. This is an exclusive feature of the tour, making it a real treat.

The collection is incredibly diverse—antique models, muscle cars, and unique machinery—set in a site adjacent to the old GM Car Plant. Visitors can grab a coffee and a snack while exploring, making it a relaxed experience. The guide pointed out that many visitors find this collection more personal and quirky compared to larger museums, providing a different perspective on New Zealand’s automotive enthusiasm.

Strolling Jackson Street in Petone

After the cars, it’s time for a leisurely stroll along Jackson Street in Petone, one of Wellington’s most charming neighborhoods. The street is lined with cafes, boutiques, and a chocolate shop, perfect for soaking up the local vibe. We loved how the guide encouraged us to take our time, enjoy a coffee, or browse the shops.

This is where you truly get a sense of local life—small, independent stores, friendly café staff, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a chance to relax before the final part of the day.

Gear Street Union and Beverages

The tour culminates at Gear Street Union, where you can indulge in sample tastings of some of New Zealand’s best craft beers. The selection varies, but the focus is on quality and authenticity. Note that you must be over 18 to partake, and this is a highlight for those looking to enjoy a genuine Kiwi beverage experience. The guide explains the nuances of each drink, adding an educational touch to the tasting.

Return to Wellington

After a full day of exploring, the return trip is just 15 minutes back into Wellington city. We felt satisfied but not overwhelmed, with plenty of stories and sights to reflect on. The whole experience feels well-paced, with enough time at each stop for a genuine appreciation of the sights and tastes.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

This tour offers a balanced mix of entertainment, education, and scenic beauty. For car lovers, the museums provide a rare chance to see vintage and private collections up close. The scenic drive along Transmission Gully offers some of the most stunning coastal views in Wellington, making the journey memorable as well as the destinations.

The inclusion of admission fees and a drinks paddle means you don’t have to worry about extra costs, and the pickup service simplifies logistics. The small group size (limited to 11 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, with guides able to tailor commentary and attention.

While the tour is quite full—running over six hours—it’s designed for those who want a comprehensive day. If you enjoy driving tours with a mix of history, local flavors, and scenery, this one ticks all the boxes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for auto enthusiasts, craft beer aficionados, and curious travelers who enjoy learning about local culture in a relaxed, engaging setting. If you’re traveling with limited time but want a full, authentic taste of Wellington, this tour efficiently combines must-see museums with scenic coastal drives and charming neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is pickup available from my hotel? The tour offers pickup at the isite Bus Pickup Point at Wakefield Street; check with the provider if your hotel is nearby for arrangements.

• How long does each stop last? Expect around 15 minutes at the Marine Memorial, 75 minutes at Southward Car Museum, 75 minutes at Cars Inc, and about 30 minutes exploring Jackson Street and Gear Street Union.

• Do I need to book in advance? Yes, most travelers book about 6 days ahead, and booking early ensures availability, especially during peak times.

• Is lunch included? No, guests are responsible for their own lunch, but the stops in Petone and Jackson Street have plenty of dining options.

• Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol? Absolutely, the beverage sampling is optional, and non-drinkers can enjoy the sights and snacks.

• What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 11 travelers, making for a more personalized experience.

• Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned and suitable for all travelers capable of walking at each stop.

• Are children allowed? No, as alcohol is served on this tour, participants must be over 18.

• What if I need to cancel? Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available.

• Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour involves some walking and standing; travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly with the provider.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour in Wellington offers a thoughtfully curated experience for those eager to explore automotive treasures, enjoy local craft beers, and soak in coastal scenery. It strikes a good balance between structured visits and leisure time, making it ideal for curious travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Wellington’s car heritage, a better understanding of local flavors, and some fantastic views along the way. It’s a great choice if you want a fun, engaging, and authentic Kiwi day out that offers real value without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a petrolhead, a beer lover, or simply someone wanting to see a different side of Wellington, this tour will leave you with memorable stories—and maybe a taste for more of New Zealand’s surprises.