Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway from Auckland

Planning a day trip from Auckland that combines scenic beauty, tasting fine wines, and enjoying delicious food? Look no further than the Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway. Priced at $180.28 per person, this roughly 7-hour tour offers a chance to explore the lush countryside north of Auckland without the hassle of self-driving. With a small group of up to 11 travelers and personalized attention, it’s an experience that balances comfort with authenticity.

What truly makes this tour special are its well-curated stops: tasting at Matakana Estate, strolling through the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, and savoring a gourmet lunch at Plume Vineyard Restaurant. Led by knowledgeable guides—many of whom are highly praised for their commentary—you’ll get a real taste of New Zealand’s vibrant wine scene and scenic landscapes. Two things we love? The diversity of the wine tastings and the chance to enjoy local produce in a relaxed, friendly environment. One consideration? The weather can be unpredictable, so dressing appropriately is wise.

This tour suits wine lovers, foodies, and anyone eager to enjoy New Zealand’s countryside without the stress of planning or driving. It’s particularly ideal if you appreciate personalized service, authentic local experiences, and scenic views, as echoed in multiple 5-star reviews.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Diverse wine tastings provide insight into the region’s varietals, like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir
• Gourmet lunch at an award-winning winery elevates the experience
• Beautiful scenery and sculpture walks add visual interest outside of wine tasting
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transport makes the day easy and enjoyable
• Highly knowledgeable guides enrich the trip with interesting commentary and local insights

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The First Stop: Matakana Estate

Your day begins with a visit to Matakana Estate, where you’ll sample five different wines, including classics like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, as well as Chardonnay, Merlot, and Syrah. This is an excellent introduction to the region’s grape varieties, which thrive due to the fertile soils and favorable climate.

The tasting experience here isn’t just about sipping wine—it’s about understanding the nuances of each varietal. Reviewers like Kerrie_A mention that John, the guide, was very knowledgeable, providing “running commentary about the places we visited and New Zealand,” which makes the tasting richer and more engaging. With 45 minutes allocated, you’ll have enough time to explore the vineyard, ask questions, and really appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

The Scenic Brick Bay Sculpture Trail

Next, you’ll head to the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, set on their own 20-acre vineyard. While time doesn’t allow for a full sculpture walk, the setting itself is worth the visit. The vineyard offers an opportunity to taste local wines and enjoy the beautiful countryside. It’s a chance to see how the grapes are cultivated firsthand.

Many travelers, including Gina_S, appreciated the relaxing vibe and excellent wines, with some mentioning the delicious baked Camembert and crackers available for purchase. Although the sculpture walk isn’t included, the scenic views and the vineyard’s atmosphere add a sense of tranquility and authenticity.

The Highlight: Lunch at Plume Vineyard Restaurant

After a morning of tasting and sightseeing, you’ll settle in for a one-hour lunch at Plume Vineyard Restaurant, renowned for its quality and local ingredients. The reviews consistently praise the delicious food, with one reviewer noting the “exceptional lunch” and “beautiful scenery.” This is not just a meal but an experience—perfectly paired with the wines tasted earlier and the relaxed, friendly service.

Final Stops and Personal Touches

Depending on availability, your guide might include additional stops—such as a honey store or scenic spots—making the day feel personalized and tailored to your interests. Laurie_M’s review mentions that John made sure they had a great experience with scenic spots, a variety of tastings, and even a stop for ice cream.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s value is enhanced by the inclusion of wine tastings, lunch, bottled water, and transport, which means no hidden costs. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere where you can truly ask questions and enjoy the day at your own pace.

It’s worth noting that personal expenses and gratuities are not included, so if you wish to buy bottles or souvenirs, plan accordingly. Also, the minimum age for drinking is 18, so this tour is perfect for adult travelers.

Transport and Comfort

Travel is via air-conditioned minivan, providing a comfortable ride through the scenic countryside. Pickup and drop-off options include hotels or Port pickups, making logistics straightforward, especially for those staying in Auckland city center.

Weather and Clothing

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in smart casual with layers and rain gear if necessary is advisable. This flexibility means you can enjoy the scenery and tastings regardless of the weather.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Praise

The consistent 5-star ratings reflect the high regard in which travelers hold this tour. Many reviewers emphasize the knowledge of guides, especially John, who is praised for his engaging commentary and local insights. For example, Kerrie_A mentions that John’s commentary added a lot to the experience, making it “very enjoyable.”

The variety of wineries and scenic stops is frequently lauded. Gina_S appreciated the “relaxing day” and the good wines, while Michael_K pointed out that “weather didn’t affect the tour,” highlighting the tour’s flexibility and quality.

The lunch experience consistently earns praise, with visitors describing it as delicious, well-presented, and a highlight of the day. The combination of wine, food, and scenery creates a balanced, immersive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate good wine, crave scenic drives, and enjoy relaxed, small-group settings. It suits travelers who prefer guided tours over self-driving, especially if they want knowledgeable narration and personal attention. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in local produce, art, and authentic Kiwi hospitality.

If you’re looking for a value-packed day with diverse experiences, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of New Zealand’s countryside and wine culture, all in one memorable day.

FAQs

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $180.28 per person, including tastings, lunch, transport, and some local taxes, making it a good value for a full day of guided experiences.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned minivan is included, with pickup and drop-off options at your hotel or port.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Are lunch and tastings included?
Yes, your ticket covers wine tastings, lunch, bottled water, and local taxes. Any additional purchases are at your expense.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Dress in layers and bring rain gear if the weather calls for it—it operates rain or shine.

Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, vegetarian options are available—just specify when booking.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Absolutely; the tour runs in all weather conditions. The scenery and wine tasting are still enjoyable rain or shine.

What do travelers say about the guide?
Reviews consistently praise the guide, especially John, for being knowledgeable, engaging, and personable, making the whole day more enriching.

Final Thoughts

The Matakana Scenic Coastal Getaway offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of New Zealand’s wine country and scenic beauty. The small-group format and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience, while the delicious food and quality wines make it a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing day exploring the countryside, this tour balances scenic drives, cultural insights, and culinary delights effortlessly.

It’s especially suitable for those who value local flavor, personal connection, and scenic beauty over big bus crowds. If you want to escape Auckland’s hustle and discover some of the best vineyards and scenery the region has to offer, this tour delivers a memorable day out in New Zealand’s wine country.