Private Hawke's Bay Wine, History and Farm Tour in Napier

Indulge in the delights of Hawke’s Bay wine country on this exclusive private tour. Learn what makes Napier such a unique and wondrous place to visit and explore.

You will discover the great Art Deco history of Napier, visit some iconic wineries for tastings and be amazed at breathtaking views while experiencing a Hawke's Bay lifestyle farm.

Your guide Don is a third generation Hawke's Bay winemaker with 40 years experience in the wine industry, and his wife, Roslyn is a fourth generation Hawke's Bay farmer. Roslyn and Don are extremely passionate and proud of their region and delight in sharing their knowledge and experiences with others. Don and Roslyn's family have lived in Hawke's Bay for over 100 years so they are 'real locals'.

Upon arrival on shore, drive through Napier and experience the charming Art Deco and Spanish Mission architecture and the influence of the 1931 earthquake.

Travel north along the coast to the beautiful Esk Valley via the vibrant seaside village of Ahuriri. Learn about the historic Maori settlement and the changes that the 1931 earthquake brought about.

Visit 'The Grange', your host's farm with amazing rural, coastal and city views. Stroll around Roslyn’s beautiful country garden. Enjoy feeding the sheep and other animals as you are introduced to New Zealand life style farming.

Taste wine amongst the vines, in your host's Esk Valley vineyard, while Don explains the meaning and importance of 'terroir' and its contribution to wine quality. The red wine was produced from grapes harvested from this vineyard.

Drive up to an Esk Valley Hills lookout that challenges Te Mata Peak for Hawke's Bay's, highest and most majestic 360 degree views. Gaze over the farms, vineyards and pristine orchards on the valley floor.

Visit two of Hawkes Bay's iconic wineries, Linden Estate Winery in the beautiful Esk Valley where Trevor Shephard, their winemaker produces outstanding wines including Pinotage, Viognier and Syrah, and Mission Estate Winery established in 1851 by pioneering French Missionaries, New Zealand’s oldest winery and the birth place of New Zealand wine.

At each of these two wineries you will be treated to a private wine tasting hosted by Don. The tastings will include Reserve quality wines showcasing the best of Hawke's Bay.

Please note:

This tour can be customised to suit the groups' special interests. Other options are:  

• Visits and tastings at Artisan Food Producers – Olives, Figs, Honey, Limes. (included in price)
• Visit and tastings at an Organic Cheese producer. (not included in price)
• See a working sheep dog demonstration (not included in price)
• Visit and tastings at a Craft Brewery and a Boutique Cider Producer. (not included in price)
• A one or two hour cycle ride on one of Hawke’s Bay’s magnificent cycle trails. (not included in price)