Wellington isn’t just the cool capital of New Zealand; it’s a thriving hub for wine lovers eager to explore top vineyards and hidden gems. Thanks to its proximity to Martinborough, a renowned wine region known for its Pinot Noir and boutique wineries, Wellington offers a wide variety of wine tours that suit every schedule and interest. Whether you prefer a short half-day escape, a full-day adventure, or a private, luxurious experience, Wellington has a lot to offer. We love the Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour for its convenience and expert guide, and the Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour for combining wine tasting with breathtaking scenery and coastal walks. For a unique experience, a Tesla private tour adds a touch of luxury and sustainability.
If you’re serious about your wine, want a taste of coastal scenery, or simply seek a relaxing day out, our list below covers the best options to help you find your perfect match.
Quick Overview
Our list includes half-day and full-day tours, private experiences, food-focused outings, and luxury electric vehicle trips. Many tours combine wine tastings at renowned vineyards with local food, scenic drives, and even nature walks. Prices range from around $112 for a half-day tour to over $672 for an adventurous seal safari with Wairarapa wines. All tours offer unique insights into the region’s viticulture, with some including gourmet lunches, cheese tastings, and even Lord of the Rings film sites. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington
At number 1, this small group tour offers a delicious introduction to the Martinborough wine scene. Depart Wellington in comfort and enjoy expert commentary from your guide as you cross the Remutaka Ranges and head to this European-style wine village. The tour includes visits to three top wineries, where cellar door staff introduce you to their best wines in a relaxed setting. You’ll also stop at C’est Cheese for a quick artisan snack and possibly sample local cheeses—an ideal way to complement your tastings.
What makes this tour stand out is the all-inclusive pricing, covering cellar door fees and tastings, so you don’t worry about extra costs. With a 5-star rating based on over 400 reviews, guests praise the relaxed vibe and knowledgeable guides. Perfect for those short on time but eager to taste excellent wines and enjoy some of New Zealand’s best scenery in just over five hours.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Martinborough wines, especially if you want a stress-free experience with expert guiding.
2. Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour from Wellington
Number 2 on our list combines wine tasting with a full day of scenic exploration along New Zealand’s wild coast. Starting with a walk through Kaitoke Regional Park, you’ll enjoy ancient native forest and even see Rivendell, the Lord of the Rings film set. The tour then ventures along the Remutaka Ranges, with spectacular views, before visiting C’est Cheese and Schoc Chocolates—perfect for pairing with your wines later at Martinborough wineries.
The highlight is the combination of award-winning wines, coastal walks, and gourmet food, including a platter lunch and a seaside dinner after a short shoreline walk at Lake Onoke. The tour is highly rated for its curated stops and engaging commentary. At approximately ten hours, it’s ideal if you want a full immersion in nature, food, and wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who love a mix of wine, scenery, and gourmet experiences. It’s a longer, more adventurous outing that leaves you full of memorable sights and flavors.
3. From Wellington: Martinborough Winery Tour
For around $112, the Martinborough Winery Tour offers a solid half-day experience. This tour hits three top wineries, with a focus on personalized tastings and scenic views of the Remutaka Ranges. It’s a good choice for travelers short on time but wanting to experience Martinborough’s best wineries and charming town atmosphere.
Guests often comment on the well-organized itinerary and the smooth logistics, with some reviews mentioning how the guide’s knowledge enhanced the experience. It’s best suited for those seeking an efficient, quality wine tasting without extra fuss. The 4.8-star rating attests to its popularity.
Bottom Line: Efficient, friendly, and well-managed—ideal if you want a taste of Martinborough wine without a long day.
4. Chefs Private Martinborough Wine Tour with lunch from Wellington
This exclusive chef-guided tour is for true food and wine enthusiasts. For about $366, a chef takes you on a private full-day journey through Martinborough, tasting at three wineries, enjoying a gourmet multi-course lunch, and discovering the region’s culinary secrets. The tour includes insights into top wine spots, with the flexibility of a private vehicle and tailored experiences.
Guests praise the personalized service and the quality of the food and wine. The chef’s knowledge makes this a very immersive experience, perfect for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, intimate day. The focus on culinary excellence combined with premium wines makes it one of the most memorable options.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies and couples after a private, luxurious experience—worth the splurge for gourmet wine and cuisine.
5. Private Martinborough Wine Full Day Tour From Wellington
Number 5 offers a personalized full-day experience tailored to your preferences. Starting at $219, this private tour takes you to three top wineries, with the flexibility to include additional stops or activities like shopping in Greytown. Your guide handles all logistics, including hotel or port pickup, making it ideal for travelers who want a bespoke day.
Clients love the customizable itinerary and the chance to visit boutique wineries like Palliser Estate and Schubert Wines. The day includes wine tastings and a lunch at Poppies, known for their excellent Pinot Noir. The private format ensures a relaxed, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, flexible day with personalized wine tasting and extra activities like shopping or sightseeing.
6. Full Day Martinborough Wine Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive full-day experience for around $177. It includes visits to three boutique wineries, a gourmet lunch, and optional stops at a craft brewery or cheese shop. It’s an excellent way to explore the diverse offerings of Martinborough’s wine scene and countryside.
Guests enjoy the well-paced itinerary and the local vibe of the small wineries. The tour includes hotel or cruise ship transfers, so it’s convenient for travelers with limited time but a desire to experience the best of Martinborough.
Bottom Line: A balanced, value-packed option for wine, food, and local culture, fitting for most travelers wanting a full day out.
7. Martinborough Winery and Foodie Day Tour with vineyard lunch
Ideal for foodies, this full-day tour combines wine tastings, olive oil, cheese, beer, and a scenic drive. Starting with a small group of no more than 11, the trip includes tastings at multiple vineyards, a gourmet lunch, and visits to local producers. Guides share stories about viticulture and regional produce, making it a flavorful journey.
Reviewers highlight the variety of tastings and the informative guides. It’s a great pick for those who want to taste local produce and learn about the region’s culinary scene while enjoying beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food and wine lovers wanting a rich, multi-sensory experience with a small-group vibe.
8. Private Wairarapa Wine Delights Tour from Wellington
This private, customizable tour offers a full-day of wine tasting at four vineyards, lunch included, and hotel or port pickup. For $328, you get a personal guide and the ability to request specific wineries like Le Gra or Gladstone Vineyard, plus a scenic Remutaka Hill stop.
Guests enjoy flexibility and the chance to dive deep into the region’s wines. The private setting ensures a relaxed pace, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a completely customized day with private transportation and plenty of wine.
9. Martinborough Private Food and Wine Tour in Tesla SUV
For a luxury eco-friendly experience, this private Tesla tour at $336 offers sustainable, comfort-focused travel. You’ll visit three wineries, enjoy a gourmet lunch, and explore scenic spots like Kaitoke Regional Park. The electric vehicle adds modern luxury, and guides share insider knowledge of the region.
Guests rave about Helen’s expertise and the smooth, quiet ride. It’s ideal for environmentally conscious travelers wanting a high-end, private experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for eco-conscious travelers who want a private, luxurious day out in style.
10. Coastal Connoisseur Wellington to Wairarapa Wine & Seal safari
Offering an adventure-packed day, this $672 tour combines wine tasting, seal colony visits, and coastal hikes. You’ll explore forests, see wild seals, and visit Pinnacles with expert guides. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts wanting more than just wine.
Guests mention Olea Olive Oil tastings and the unique combination of culture, landscapes, and wine. It’s expensive but packed with action and diverse experiences.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers wanting a multi-sensory, adventure-filled day with wine and wildlife.
11. Martinborough Private Food and Wine Tour in Tesla SUV
This private luxury Tesla tour for about $336 offers an oversized dose of comfort paired with exclusive access to top vineyards. The fully inclusive experience covers wines, lunch, and regional insights, plus a smooth ride through scenic landscapes like Kaitoke Regional Park.
Guests love the personalized approach and modern vehicle, making it perfect for those who want a private, eco-friendly luxury experience that’s both indulgent and intimate.
Bottom Line: Ideal for luxury seekers who prefer privacy, sustainability, and premium service.
12. Martinborough Winery and South Wairarapa Wild Coast Tour
Number 12 offers a full-day exploration combining wine tasting with visits to Cape Palliser and Ngawi seal colony. It’s perfect for those wanting a blend of adventure and wine, with scenic coastlines and native rainforest walks.
Guests appreciate the diverse stops and the long, immersive day. It’s suited for travelers who want a full-on outdoor experience combined with wine and local culture.
Bottom Line: For active travelers who want a full-day tour blending nature, wildlife, and wine.
13. Private Martinborough Wine Tour in an Electric Vehicle – Tesla Model Y
This private Tesla experience offers a quiet, eco-friendly ride to three top vineyards with personalized stops. Starting at $336, it includes lunch, wines, and visits to Kaitoke Park with its famous Lord of the Rings set.
Guests praise Helen’s knowledgeable narration and the luxury of traveling in style. It’s best suited for eco-conscious travelers seeking a high-end, private day.
Bottom Line: Premium private experience for luxury and sustainability-minded travelers.
14. Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch
This French chef-led tour at $395 delivers gourmet food paired with wine in a private setting. You’ll visit boutique wineries and explore regional produce with the chef sharing culinary insights. It’s a luxury food and wine experience for couples or small groups.
Guests emphasize the quality of the food and the personalized service that makes this a memorable, gastronomic journey.
Bottom Line: For culinary explorers wanting a gourmet wine experience with a focus on regional flavors.
15. 6hr Martinborough Chefs shared wine tour + lunch from Wellington
Finally, this half-day tour combines wine, local food, and scenic views in a small group for around $153. You visit three wineries, enjoy a delicious lunch, and learn about local viticulture from your guide. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a compact, well-rounded experience.
Guests note the friendly guides and quality wines. It’s ideal if you want a shorter, more affordable wine adventure.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a budget-conscious traveler who still wants quality wine and food.
How to Choose the Best Wellington Wine Tour for You
Selecting from this variety of Wellington wine tours depends on your schedule, budget, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quality introduction, the Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour is perfect. For those craving a full, immersive experience, the Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour or Full Day Martinborough Wine Tour provide scenic beauty and diverse tastings.
If luxury and sustainability are priorities, consider the Tesla private tours or the Chefs Private Martinborough Wine Tour for gourmet dining and personalized service. For active travelers, the Seal Safari and Coast tour combines wildlife, outdoor activities, and wine.
Always book early, especially in peak seasons, and confirm what’s included—such as lunch, tastings, or private transport—to match your expectations.
Final Thoughts
Wellington’s proximity to Martinborough makes it an ideal base for wine tasting. Whether you want a quick taste, a full-day adventure, or a private, gourmet experience, you’ll find an option that suits your style. For a relaxed introduction, the Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour offers excellent value, while the Wild Coast Tour satisfies adventurers craving more than just wine.
If luxury and exclusivity are your priorities, the Tesla or Chef-led private tours deliver. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable, flavorful experiences in New Zealand’s premier wine country.