Queenstown Wine Tours

Queenstown is the gateway to some of New Zealand's most celebrated wine regions, and a dedicated wine tour is the perfect way to explore the vineyards without worrying about driving. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, these tours offer a relaxed, scenic journey through the Gibbston Valley, Central Otago, and beyond, with expert guides sharing local knowledge and breathtaking landscapes along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Gibbston Valley Wine Trail – Taste world-class Pinot Noir at boutique cellar doors like Chard Farm, Peregrine, and Mt Difficulty, all set against dramatic mountain backdrops.
• Central Otago Wine Region – Explore the unique terroir of Bannockburn and Cromwell basins, known for their minerality and intense fruit flavours.
• Behind-the-scenes experiences – Many tours include vineyard walks, barrel tastings, and meetings with winemakers, offering deeper insight into the craft.
• Kawarau Gorge & historic gold-mining towns – Tours often stop at the Kawarau Gorge for photo ops and a visit to the old gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown.
• Gourmet lunch pairings – Most full-day tours include a multi-course lunch at a vineyard restaurant, perfectly matched with local wines.
• Scenic helicopter or jet boat combos – Some tours combine wine tasting with a thrilling flight or Shotover Jet ride for an unforgettable day.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half-day tours (4–5 hours) are ideal for a quick introduction, visiting 3–4 wineries. Full-day tours (7–8 hours) allow a more relaxed pace, including lunch and 5–6 cellar doors. For serious wine lovers, consider a two-day itinerary that covers both Gibbston and Bannockburn, with an overnight stay in Queenstown or Cromwell.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Skyline Gondola – Ride up Bob's Peak for panoramic views and a luge ride, just minutes from the town centre.
• Lake Wakatipu – Take a scenic cruise or simply stroll the lakefront to soak in the alpine beauty.
• The Remarkables – A dramatic mountain range perfect for hiking in summer or skiing in winter.
• Shotover River – Experience jet boating through narrow canyons, an adrenaline-pumping complement to a wine tour.

Please check official sources for current details.