From Auckland: MATAKANA VILLAGE MARKET & WINE/SCULPTURE TOUR

From Auckland: Matakana Village Market & Wine/Sculpture Tour — An Authentic Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the city for a slice of New Zealand countryside, this tour offers a compelling blend of local culture, art, and gourmet treats. For $234 per person, you get a six-hour journey that takes you from Auckland’s hustle to the laid-back charm of Matakana, a small town packed with character. Led by friendly guides, this private experience is perfect for lovers of art, local food, and scenic landscapes.

What we really love about this tour is how accessible it makes a taste of rural New Zealand without the hassle of planning. The Matakana Village Market is lively and full of artisan stalls, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Then, you get to enjoy the serene Brick Bay Sculpture Trail—a contemporary outdoor gallery set amidst native bush and vineyards—plus the option for some wine tasting or a delicious lunch at the Glass House Kitchen.

The only thing to consider is that this experience involves walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must. Also, if you’re not keen on wine or have dietary restrictions, you’ll want to plan ahead for the optional tastings and meals.

This tour is ideal for art enthusiasts, food lovers, and those wanting a slower pace outside Auckland’s busy streets. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a combination of outdoor art installations, local markets, and the option to unwind with a good glass of wine in a peaceful setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines local markets, outdoor sculptures, and optional wine tastings for a well-rounded day.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transport from Auckland makes logistics simple.
• Flexible Options: Guided or self-guided sculpture trail, plus add-ons like lunch and wine tasting.
• Family-friendly: Though not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, the tour suits most active travelers.
• Value for Money: At $234, it covers transportation, guide, bottled water, and access to several highlights.
• Perfect for Art and Food Lovers: An excellent way to discover New Zealand’s local craftsmanship and vibrant culinary scene.

Exploring the Day in Detail: What You Can Expect

When we think about what makes this tour special, it’s the seamless combination of local culture, scenic beauty, and art. From the moment you’re picked up in Auckland, the journey fosters a sense of anticipation. The ride itself is comfortable, with a driver-guide who shares insights about the region—something that sets the tone for your day.

Matakana Village Market: A Taste of Local Life

Your first stop, the Matakana Village Market, is lively and vibrant, especially on a Saturday. It’s a hub of artisans selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade jewelry and gourmet foods. We loved the way the market captures the essence of rural New Zealand—friendly vendors, a relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of delicious smells.

Visitors consistently appreciate the opportunity to sample local cheeses, artisanal bread, and fresh produce, making it an ideal spot for a light breakfast or snack. As one review put it, “You can’t help but leave with a full bag and a full belly.” If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of Kiwi life, this market delivers.

Brick Bay Sculpture Trail: Art in Nature

Next, your journey takes you to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail. This outdoor gallery features contemporary sculptures set amid native bush and vineyards, offering a unique harmony of art and landscape. You can choose a guided walk or explore on your own, which makes this experience flexible for different types of travelers.

The sculptures are thoughtfully integrated into the natural environment—think of large metal installations, abstract forms, and intriguing figures. We loved the way the art amplifies the natural beauty of the surroundings, and many reviews mention the “stunning views” and “beautiful setting.” It’s a tranquil space that invites reflection, and the sculptures are accessible enough for most visitors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Wineries and Lunch: Savoring the Countryside

After your walk, you have the option to indulge in wine tastings at the nearby vineyards or enjoy a delicious lunch at the Glass House Kitchen. The wine selection is praised for its quality, and many find it enhances the relaxing countryside vibe. The lunch options are designed to showcase local ingredients, making it a perfect way to slow down and savor the flavors.

If you prefer not to indulge in wine or food, the scenic walk and art are plenty to fill your day. But for those who want to elevate the experience, these add-ons are highly recommended.

Return to Auckland: Relaxed End to Your Day

After your explorations and optional tastings, your driver-guide will escort you back to Auckland, dropping you off at your hotel. It’s a relaxed way to conclude a day that balances active sightseeing with opportunities to unwind.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The round-trip transportation ensures you won’t need to worry about logistics—just sit back and enjoy the scenery. The private group format means plenty of room for questions and a more personalized experience. The tour runs for about six hours, so check available start times to fit it into your schedule.

Since bottled water is included, you’ll stay hydrated during your outdoor walks. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bring your camera—the views and sculptures are worth capturing.

While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, most active travelers will find it easy and enjoyable. The walking is not strenuous but does involve outdoor terrain.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $234, this experience packs in a lot—transport, a guided or self-guided sculpture walk, and access to a bustling market. The optional wine tastings and lunch are extra, but many reviews suggest they’re well worth the additional cost if you want a full countryside experience. It’s a fantastic way to discover local art, food, and scenic landscapes, making it much more memorable than just a generic day trip.

The fact that it’s a private group also adds to its value, providing a more intimate and flexible environment. Plus, the positive rating of 4.6 shows that most participants find it well-organized, enjoyable, and worth the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a relaxed, informative day outside Auckland—especially those who appreciate art, local markets, and good food. It appeals to families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a taste of Kiwi countryside without the hassle of planning. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or needing wheelchair access.

If you enjoy discovering artisan crafts, sampling local wines, and wandering through outdoor sculptures, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to combine cultural exploration with scenic landscapes, all in a manageable half-day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport from Auckland, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

Can I customize the day?
While the core experience is fixed—market, sculpture trail, and optional tastings—some add-ons like lunch and wine tasting are available.

How much walking is involved?
You’ll walk through the Sculpture Trail and around the market, but it’s generally accessible and not strenuous. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are meals or tastings included?
No, they are optional extras. The tour provides the opportunity to add wine tastings and lunch at the Glass House Kitchen.

Who should avoid this tour?
Pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users may find it unsuitable, as the tour involves outdoor walking and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised.

The Bottom Line

This tour from Auckland offers a well-balanced mix of local culture, art, and scenic beauty—ideal for those wanting a meaningful escape into New Zealand’s countryside. The combination of vibrant markets, outdoor sculptures, and optional wine tastings provides a taste of the region’s creative and culinary spirit.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic experiences over touristy crowds, and who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace. The private group setup adds a touch of intimacy, making it a memorable day for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a gentle, enriching adventure.

While not suited for everyone—those with mobility issues or specific dietary needs might need to plan ahead—the majority of visitors have found it to be a rewarding, enjoyable outing. It’s a wonderful way to see a different side of New Zealand—one filled with art, flavor, and scenic serenity.

Enjoy your trip to Matakana—the perfect blend of countryside charm, creative spirit, and local flavor awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: