Photo: Jonathanischoice / CC BY-SA 4.0
Wine Time is a boutique wine tour operator in Wanaka that offers intimate, small-group excursions into the Central Otago wine region. With a focus on personalised service and local knowledge, they take you behind the cellar doors of award-winning vineyards, where you can taste world-class Pinot Noir and learn about the region's unique terroir. It's the perfect way to spend a relaxed afternoon away from the crowds.
Highlights & What to See
- Premium Wine Tours: Visit three to four handpicked wineries, including boutique producers like Rippon, Mt Difficulty, and Felton Road, with guided tastings and behind-the-scenes access.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Cromwell Basin and Gibbston Valley, with views of rugged mountains, the Kawarau River, and historic gold-mining sites.
- Local Cheese & Charcuterie: Many tours include a platter of local produce paired perfectly with the wines, highlighting Otago's artisan food scene.
- Expert Guides: Your guide shares stories about the region's winemaking history, grape varieties, and the personalities behind the labels.
Suggested Time to Spend
Half-day tours typically run from about 1pm to 5pm, allowing you to enjoy the morning exploring Wanaka or hiking Roy's Peak. Full-day options are also available for those who want to delve deeper into the wine region. Book in advance during peak season (December to March) to secure your spot.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Roys Peak – A challenging day hike with panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
- That Wanaka Tree – The iconic lone willow tree in Lake Wanaka, perfect for a photo stop.
- Cromwell – A historic gold-rush town with a growing wine scene and the famous Cromwell Heritage Precinct.
- Gibbston Valley – Known as the 'Kingdom of Pinot Noir', with many cellar doors and cheese shops.
- Queenstown – Just an hour's drive, offering adventure activities and a vibrant après-ski scene.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Roys Peak — Julrob Photography / CC BY-SA 4.0
- That Wanaka Tree — AJMANDELL1 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Wanaka Lakefront — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Puzzling World — Yogi de at en.wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Wanaka Winery Tours — Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand / CC0