Marlborough Wine and Beer Tour

Full Day Tour: 

Start Time Picton: 10.00am
Start Times Blenheim: 10.25am and 11.10am
Duration of the Tour: 4-7 hours approximately

Afternoon Tour

Start Time Blenheim: 12.10pm
Duration: 3-4 hours approximately

Please note that we cannot accommodate backpacks, luggage, wheelchairs and large prams on board our buses.

STOPS

Have a close look at all the stops below as a lot of them require bookings in advance. We have attached all their contact details for you. We always recommend pre booking lunch. We would also recommend pre booking some tastings if touring with us on the weekend.

Groups of 8 or more are welcome on our tours but please call us on 0800 6937 2273 and let us know which wineries you have booked. This is due to logistics and numbers in our buses. We advise larger groups to pre book tastings in order to avoid disappointment.

 

1. Astrolabe Small Town Winery (+64 3 577 6794) or (winery@astrolabewines.co.nz)

Open: Sun-Tues 12pm-7pm, Wed-Sat 12pm-9pm. If you wish to visit before 12am, please book beforehand.

Astrolabe Small Town Winery is an urban winery where Astrolabe makes their boutique wines. Enjoy a tasting in the barrel room of this working winery. Astrolabe is family owned and operated, with a range of artisan wines from winemaker Simon Waghorn available to taste, expressing the diverse terroir of Marlborough.

Casual tasting $20 for 5 wines, Guided tasting $30 for 7 wines

 

2. Seymour Square Town Stop

Only two minutes walk from Blenheim’s town centre, the premier park, Seymour Square, is a picturesque park of carefully tended floral gardens, a 16.5m high historic clock tower and a memorial fountain, which offers a spectacular multi-coloured display at night. whether strolling or taking time out, Seymour Square offers an ideal setting. The Stop is outside the Council Building.

 

3. Blue Penguin (at Seymour Square Town Stop)

Unique collection from Marlborough and New Zealand features a superb range of gifts and NZ souvenirs including possum merino clothing, skincare products, and greenstone/jade. Beautiful New Zealand-made jewelry in silver, gold, paua and jade is crafted on site.

 

4a. Marlborough Museum (+64 3 578 1712)

Open: Tues & Thurs & Sun 11am-3pm. Entry by donation (suggested $10).

Located in Brayshaw Heritage Park, the Marlborough Museum is known for its wine exhibition and Wairau Boulder Bank including the famous Jim Eyles Collection.

 

4b. Brayshaw Heritage Park (brayshawheritagepark@gmail.com)

Opening times vary for each exhibit.

Established in 1968, Brayshaw is home to a number of organizations including the Marlborough Historical Society, Marlborough Vintage Farm Machinery, The Vintage Car Club of NZ and many more. It is dedicated to the preservation of Marlborough.

 

5. Omaka Classic Cars (03 577 9419) or (info@omakaclassiccars.co.nz)

Open hours and dates vary. Check the website for more information.

Omaka Classic Cars hosts a unique collection of New Zealand vehicles that were popular during the 1950-1980 period, along with some special additions. See over 100 Classic Cars.

 

6. Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (+64 3 579 1305)

Open: 9am-4pm DAILY

Two fascinating collections of rare aircraft brought to life in powerful displays featuring memorabilia and lifelike mannequins created by internationally famous Weta Workshop at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Includes a cafe.

 

7. Wither Hills (03 520 8284) or (info@witherhills.co.nz)

Open DAILY – opening times vary based on appointments. Bookings required.

They take their name from the landmark Wither Hills range that borders the vineyards and produce under the philosophy that the finest wines are always created from exceptional vineyards. Excellent lunch stop in their restaurant. 

Tastings: $10 – $14

 

8. Saint Clair Family Estate (+64 3 570 5280) or (cellardoor@saintclair.co.nz)

Open: Wed-Sun 10am-5pm.  Bookings required.

Full Kitchen Menu Available: 11.30am-2.45pm, Light Options Available: 2:45pm onwards.

Enjoy a locally sourced lunch in the middle of the vines and some of the best wine Marlborough has to offer. St. Clair’s mission is to create world-class wines that exceed their customers every expectation. They achieved this mission by combining extensive viticultural expertise, the unique mix of Marlborough’s climate and soils, and the talent of one of New Zealand’s leading winemaking teams. St. Clair is now one of Marlborough’s most awarded family owned wineries, and will not disappoint.

Tastings: From $10 – $15 for flight of 3 wines.

HoHo Special! – 10% OFF when dining for lunch, or for wine purchases

 

9. Hunters Wines (+64 3 572 8803) or (cellardoor@hunters.co.nz)

Open: Wed-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Bookings preferred. No more than 8 clients may hop off at one time. 

Hunters Wines is located in the original farmhouse and with renovations in 2017, has retained the farmhouse, villa characteristics. They offer wine tastings inside as well as in the picturesque gardens. Wander through the native garden, to visit the resident artist studio or linger in the Cellar Door garden with a glass or bottle of wine and light lunch.

Tastings: $15 for 6 wines

 

10. Rimapere Cellar Door & Vineyards  (0272861221) or (cellardoor@rimapere.com)

Open: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm

Only 8 passengers may hop off at one time.

Baron Benjamin de Rothschild has created his own Sauvignon Blanc. The vineyard is ideally situated in the heart of the Marlborough region named Rimapere, meaning “five arrows” in Māori, and simultaneously honours the Rothschild’s family coat of arms and traditional New Zealand culture. Come and enjoy a tasting of the Edmond de Rothschild range in our lovely garden setting amongst the vines.

Tastings: Wine Flight $18, Discovery Tasting $20, Pioneer Tasting $ 35, Adventure Tasting $55.

 

11. The Fancy Cow Restaurant/Winery/Brewery (+64 3 242 6260) or (enquiries@thefancycow.nz)

Open: Tues-Sun 10.30am-5pm ( Cellar Door)/10.30am-8pm (Restaurant)

Delicious Italian food, great views of Marlborough and an energetic atmosphere, The Fancy Cow restaurant and pizza oven has something for everyone.

Sample Ant Moore Wines at their Marlborough Vintners Cellar Door. Using a combination of traditional techniques and modern winemaking practices Ant Moore has crafted a range of wines with balance and character are great for everyone to drink.

Tastings: $10 for five wines of the Collection Choice.

 

12. Moa Brewery (03 572 5146) or (mark@moabeer.com)

Open: Wed-Sun 12pm-7pm

Visit the award winning Moa Brewery and enjoy the view from a beautiful patio along with a tasting from their range of craft beers. Founded in 2003, Moa is one of the pioneers of craft beer in NZ and continues to produce a broad range of beers and ciders.

HOHO Special! 20% discount on tastings and flights

 

13. Cloudy Bay (03 520 9147) or (cellar.door@cloudybay.co.nz)

Open: DAILY 10am-4pm. Bookings essential.

Cloudy Bay is a stunning  prestige vineyard with delightful wines. Famous for its Cloudy Bay Pelorus Methode Traditionelle. Perfect for a tasting and soaking up the sun in their gardens. Hosts a Raw Bar where you can sample local oysters.

Tastings: $20 

 

14. Allan Scott (+64 21 572 914) or (bistro@allanscott.co.nz) 

Open: 10am-4pm DAILY. Bookings preferred. No more than 8 clients may hop off here at any one time. 

Allan Scott has exclusive wines and gifts, relaxing dining indoors or out, delicious seasonal menu and giant chess.

Tastings: Pay at the end for your tastings, 1/2 glass or full glass. 

 

15. Jackson Estate (021 860813) or (jacksonestate@bentonwines.co.nz)

Open: Tues- Sat 10am-4.30pm. Bookings required.

Jackson Estate is 100 percent kiwi-owned, with total respect for our land and focusing on low cropping levels, small batch fermentation, single vineyard fruits and minimal winemaking intervention. They are proud of the incremental improvements achieved year on year, in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way.

Tastings – From $10

 

16. Runway Cafe (therunwaystore@outlook.com)

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-4pm, Sat 8:30am-2:30pm. Close Sunday.

A cool cafe with a big plane outside and a full bar inside! The Runway Cafe was founded in 2019 by local owners. Serving up local and regional fare in addition to ‘Sublime’ coffee. In the back yard stands an historic aircraft, The Argosy, which is the only one in the world. For a small donation an inflight experience can be had between 10am – 4pm Monday-Saturday.

 

17. Spy Valley Wines (03 572 6207) or  (info@spyvalley.co.nz)

Open: Mon-Sat 10.30am-4.00pm. Bookings preferred. 

Seek Spy, find why. Award winning, sustainably crafted wines that have captured the unique time and place of every harvest since 1993. A family-owned estate, hidden in the heart of Marlborough New Zealand, one of the world’s purest wine regions. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and other classic varieties. It just so happens that they share the valley with a satellite communication station that finds the terroir perfect for spying too. Unlike the world of espionage, Spy Valley has demanded global attention, where its wine has been called “impossible to ignore” – consistently delivering exceptional experiences for wine lovers around the world. Artisan platters available.

Tastings: A selection of 4 Spy Valley Flagship Wines $15 or A selection of 4 ENVOY Reserve Wines $18

 

18. Clos Henri (+64 (0)3 572 7923) or (cellardoor@closhenri.com)

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm

Nestled in the foothills of the Wairau Valley, carved by powerful glacial and tectonic forces, the Clos Henri Estate sits upon some the Marlborough’s most fascinating soils. Headed by members of the famous wine growing family of Henri Bourgeois, from Sancerre, France, the Estate has been meticulously for sine its establishment in 2000.

Tastings $20

 

19. Woodbourne Tavern  (03 572 8007) or (info@woodbournetavern.co.nz)

Open: 8am – late DAILY 

The Woodbourne Tavern and Motels or “the Woody” as it is known by friends and locals is a family pub and restaurant in the center of the Renwick community. The Woody’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Classic pub grub.

 

20. Cork & Keg  (03 572 9328) or (info@corkandkeg.co.nz)

Open: 3pm-late DAILY

The Cork & Keg is an English style tavern, serving beer, cider, wine and great heart food. They boast a warm fire in the winter. They produce award-winning top end, ultra premium ales that enlighten the palate and thrill the senses. The beers nicely showcase New Zealand hops and malt in a range of British, American and European styles. The pub also serves homemade pizzas, a variety of snacks, main meals and, of course, Marlborough wine.

 

21a. Forrest Winery (+64 3 5729084) or (cellardoor@forrest.co.nz) 

Open: 10am-4.30pm DAILY. Bookings preferred.

Forrest Winery is a family run establishment since 1988. Situated just outside the town of Renwick with beautiful lush gardens. Be sure to check out the weekend Cellar Door 101 sessions!

Tastings: Tasting tray of 7 wines for $16

 

21b. Boom Town Beer Garden (bar@boomtownbeergarden.nz)

Currently closed. Open in November.

At Boom Town Beer Garden, there’s a scene set for you to enjoy the good times with friends and family in a relaxed atmosphere of chilled vibes & great beer (and wines) in the warmth of Marlborough’s summer sun. The Garden Kitchen is onsite every day serving up wood-fired pizzas, burgers and more.

 

22. Framingham (+64 3 572 8884) or (cellardoor@framingham.co.nz)

Open: 10:30-4:30pm DAILY. Bookings preferred.

Framingham make aromatic styled wines to accompany delicious food. They have won several awards including 2018 New Zealand winery of the year. With some of the oldest Riesling vines in Marlborough, they planted the first Wairau Valley vines back in 1981. Enjoy a glass of wine or a combined group tasting with other HoHo clients.   

Tastings are $10. Donations to NZ Music Helps are encouraged.

 

23. Nautilus Winery (+64 3 572 6008) or (sales@nautilusestate.com)

Open: 10.30am-4.30pm DAILY. Bookings preferred.

Enjoy a relaxed and informal wine tasting at Nautilus’ beautifully refurbished cellar door tasting bar. Guests enjoy their award-winning wines and are also offered a tasting of four wines from a portfolio of current release Nautilus wines.

Tastings: $15

 

24. Huia Cellar Door (+64 3 572 8326) or (mel@huiavineyards.com)

Open: 10.30am-4.30pm DAILY. Bookings preferred.

Huia Cellar Door was built on the belief that a natural approach to winemaking produces the best tasting wine. Bio dynamic growing, certified organic hand crafted wines, everything is ‘au natural’ – a lifestyle choice at Huia, and they love it.

 

25. Vines Village (+64 3 572 7170) or (admin@thevinesvillage.co.nz)

Open:  8am DAILY. Closing times vary.

The Vines Village is a great destination to explore, taste and relax amongst tranquil landscaped lakeside grounds. The Vines Cafe/restaurant offers fresh and wholesome food specialising in nourishing weekend breakfasts, fresh coffee, tasty lunches and afternoon drinks. Enjoy some sweet treats, ice cream at Cone & Scoop and local charcuterie at Vines Larder & Giftware then shop for crafts at The Quilters Barn for that something special.

 

25a.  Whitehaven Wines (+64 3 577 5177) 

Open: 11am-4.30pm. Bookings preferred.

Due to the size of the venue only 8 clients may hop off at any given time.   

Located in the Vines Village, Whitehaven Wines have a singular vision of making wines from 100% Marlborough fruit. Sauvignon Blanc is their specialty! Enjoy a glass of wine or bubbles in their relaxing, lakeside setting. Reservations are encouraged but not essential. Fancy a snack? Build your own delicious platter from the deli.

Tastings: Standard $10, Premium $15

 

25b. Cheese and Cheers (+64 3 572 7170) or  (+64 027 572 7171) 

Open: 10am-6pm DAILY 

Located in the Vines Village, Whiskey and cheese tasting bar focusing on tasting mostly NZ made whiskey and NZ cheese. As well as offering Tupari wine tastings and food, from small cheese plates through to cheese platters.

 

25c.  Roots Gin Shack (+64 3 699 8050)  or (ginshack@elementaldistillers.com)

Open: 11am-7pm DAILY

Discover the full range of award-winning Roots Dry Gin with a tasting flight. The Gin Shack knowledgeable staff take you on a journey to learn about the botanicals selected through to the distillation process on site.

We’ve partnered with the talented team behind Franks Oyster Bar and Eatery, to design an elegant menu that is designed to wow your taste buds and complement our gin creations.

Gin tastings: $3.00 for single or $19.50 for 3 gins & bottle of tonic.

 

26. Makana Confections (bsales@makana.co.nz)

Open: 9am-5.30pm DAILY

Makana Chocolate are manufacturers of gift quality chocolate at this boutique factory.

 

Be sure to show your Hop on Hop off wristband at selected stops to claim our great special offers! Click here for more details on specials.

Click here for Terms and Conditions.