Hawke's Bay Historic Wineries Tour - Featuring NZ oldest Winery

Napier , New Zealand

Hawke's Bay Historic Wineries Tour - Featuring NZ oldest Winery

Active

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step back in time on our Hawke’s Bay Historic Wineries Tour. Visit Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery, founded by French missionaries in 1851, and taste elegant wines while exploring the beautifully preserved seminary and cellars.

Drive through historic Taradale, lined with charming villas and early settler cottages that tell the story of Hawke’s Bay’s wine pioneers.

Next, we will visit Church Road Winery, established in 1897 by Tom McDonald, father of New Zealand’s fine reds.

To finish, we’ll take you up to Bluff Hill Lookout for sweeping views over Napier Port, the Pacific Ocean, and Napier’s Art Deco skyline.

Not your average wine tour — experience the heritage in every glass!

- Visit Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery
- Explore historic cellars and buildings
- Guided tastings of premium Hawke’s Bay wines
- Learn the region’s winemaking history
- Travel through scenic vineyards and countryside
- Expert guide offering rich historical context

Available options

Hawke's Bay Historic Wineries Tour - Featuring NZ oldest Winery

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Alcoholic Beverages

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step back in time, this tour visits the remarkable Mission Estate New Zealands oldest vineyard & winery, established in 1851 by French missionaries. Learn the rich history and explore the historical buildings gaining insight into the pioneering spirit that helped shape Hawke’s Bay’s winemaking legacy—all while enjoying a tasting of the Estates expertly crafted wines.

Along the way, your guide will share stories of the land, the people, and the evolution of Hawke’s Bay as a world-class wine destination. As we journey through historic Taradale, you’ll see charming villas and early cottages that once housed vineyard workers who shaped the region’s winemaking story. Hear about the families and events that built Hawke’s Bay into New Zealand’s premier wine region.

Stop 3

Our next stop is Church Road Winery, established in 1897 by Tom McDonald, a pioneer of fine New Zealand reds. Depending on availability, you’ll experience their heritage-listed cellar and taste award-winning wines in a setting steeped in history. In a case where church road isn't open we will still take in the beauty of this heritage rich winery before we head to another stunning Hawke's Bay winery for our second tasting. We won't disappoint!

To finish, we’ll take you up to Bluff Hill Lookout for sweeping views over Napier Port, the Pacific Ocean, and Napier’s Art Deco skyline — a breathtaking vantage point to reflect on the region’s landscape, history, and enduring wine legacy.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The National Aquarium is located along Marine Parade in Napier. Your guide will be waiting for you by the van. The Van will be marked Mates Travel and will be parked at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure

Cruise passengers, take the free shuttle bus from the port to the aquarium.

Important notes

Show your ticket to the driver

About Napier

Napier is a vibrant city known for its Art Deco architecture, a result of the 1931 earthquake that led to a complete rebuild. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with access to the Pacific Ocean and the scenic Hawke's Bay region. The city is famous for its wine, art, and marine life, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Art Deco Walk

A self-guided walking tour showcasing Napier's iconic Art Deco architecture, a result of the 1931 earthquake.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (guided tours cost around $25)

Marine Parade

A scenic waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Hawke's Bay.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

Hawke's Bay Museum & Art Gallery

A renowned museum showcasing the history, art, and culture of Hawke's Bay.

Museum 1-2 hours Around $10

Napier Aquarium

A small but fascinating aquarium featuring a variety of marine life from the Pacific Ocean.

Nature 1 hour Around $10

Te Mata Peak

A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Hawke's Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (parking fee applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fresh Seafood

Napier is famous for its fresh seafood, including crayfish, paua (abalone), and oysters.

Lunch/Dinner Seafood is a staple, but vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants.

Hawke's Bay Wine

The region is known for its excellent wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.

Drink Wine tastings are available at many local vineyards.

Art Deco Cupcakes

A local specialty, these cupcakes are decorated in Art Deco style.

Dessert Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Surfing Wine tasting Spa treatments Beach lounging Art Deco tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season, with long, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. It's the peak tourist season, so expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Napier is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

Hawke's Bay Airport • 5 km from city center

By train

Napier Railway Station

By bus

Napier Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient for getting around. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ahuriri Tarewa Marewa

Day trips

Hastings

20 km from Napier • Half day

Hastings is a charming city known for its fruit orchards, wineries, and the annual Art Deco Festival.

Cape Kidnappers

30 km from Napier • Full day

Cape Kidnappers is a stunning coastal area known for its gannet colony and scenic views.

Havelock North

15 km from Napier • Half day

Havelock North is a picturesque village known for its wine region, local markets, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Art Deco Festival • February Hawke's Bay Wine & Food Festival • November Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market • Sundays, year-round

Pro tips

Visit the Hawke's Bay Museum & Art Gallery for a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture
Take a guided Art Deco tour to learn about the city's unique architecture and history
Explore the local wine region with a self-guided or guided wine tour
Visit the Napier Market on weekends for fresh produce, local crafts, and food stalls
Take a day trip to Cape Kidnappers to see the gannet colony and enjoy stunning coastal views