The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail

Price Includes:

• 7 days Hertz Group B Economy car hire
• 2 nights - Napier, The County Hotel
• 2 nights – Peppers Martinborough
• 1 night – Quest Hotel, Wellington
• 1 nights – Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough

Itinerary

Day 1: Rotorua – Napier (218km)
On arrival into Rotorua, pick up your Hertz car rental and travel to the picturesque town of Napier.
2 Night Stay: The County Hotel, Napier

Day 2: Napier
Enjoy a guided tour through Napier’s Art Deco buildings, a city reborn after the 1931 earthquake. This afternoon visit the wineries that make Hawkes Bay one of New Zealand’s most famous wine regions. Many wineries are open year round, including the historic Mission Estate, established by Catholic missionaries in 1851.

Day 3: Napier – Martinborough (287km)
This morning view the bay’s coastal attractions before a comfortable three-hour drive south. Martinborough is a quirky little village of just 1300 people, encircled by 30 vineyards – most of which are within walking distance from your hotel. Enjoy some wine tastings or simply relax amongst the elegance of your colonial hotel.
2 Night Stay: Peppers Martinborough

Day 4: Martinborough
A morning stroll around Martinborough Wine Village offers a leisurely start to a day of fine food and wine tasting. The Martinborough Wine Centre is a must, with its extensive cellar and tasting of local wines, as well as being a great place to stop for lunch (Own expense). After lunch take a short drive to the craft shops in the charmingly restored buildings of Greytown, many of which date back to 1854, when the town was established.

Day 5: Martinborough – Wellington (82km)
This morning the choices are plentiful. Less than 90 minutes away, Wellington’s arts, cuisine and culture beckon. Take time to discover this cosmopolitan city with its fine shopping, dining and nightlife.
Overnight: Quest Hotel, Wellington. B

Day 6: Wellington – Marlborough (70km)
This day promises a true pilgrimage through a region renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc. Take the Interislander across Cook Strait to Marlborough. More than 40 wineries can be found within a mere 10 miles of Blenheim, including the iconic Cloudy Bay Winery. In the afternoon, why not explore the tranquil shores of the Marlborough Sounds on forest walks, by sea kayak or cruise boat. (Own expense)
Overnight: Bay of Many Coves, Marlborough

Day 7: Marlborough – Nelson (171km)
On this last leisurely morning, visit Marlborough’s potters, craft shops and gourmet food producers, or linger for a last drop of wine tasting. Take one of the many flights daily from Blenheim to major centres or continue your wine experience by visiting the stunning Nelson region, home to boutique wineries, delicious seafood and magnificent scenery.

Accommodation Details:
Peppers Martinborough 4.5*
The Square, Martinborough Location: In the heart of Martinborough approximately one hour east of Wellington. This historic property dates back to 1882 and a complete refurbishment has recaptured the former colonial elegance. Facilities: 16 individually designed rooms, including 9 Verandah rooms and 7 Garden rooms, with television, telephone, dedicated fax/modem line and tea making facilities. Property features bar and restaurant.

Quest Hotel 4.5*
Centrally located in the heart of the capitals CBD, a city famous for its culture, atmosphere, lifestyle and history, Quest Wellington is perfectly places to explore the highlights. Within moments of leaving the property you have access to the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas. The Quest offers luxurious, one bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments, each featuring a fully equipped kitchenette, laundry facilities and bathroom with underfloor heating.

The County Hotel 3.5*
12 Browning Street, Napier Location: Victorian-Edwardian classic revival style building located in the centre of Napier. Here you can experience the elegance of former times. Facilities: 18 rooms with air conditioning, television, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities, Internet connection and iron and ironing board. Property features restaurant, bar and parking.

Bay of Many Coves 4*
Queen Charlotte Sound
An exclusive retreat in Marlborough, the heart of New Zealand’s finest wine growing country, and a playground for sailing, fishing, walking and kayaking in an unspoilt natural environment. Relax in a spacious hillside apartment with uninterrupted views from your private balcony to the blue waters and hills. Swim in the all seasons’ fresh-water pool, be pampered by the massage therapist, fish from a dinghy, enjoy a short bush walk around the bay, or read the papers over coffee at the café. Location: Just 30 minutes north of Picton in stunning Queen Charlotte Sound with incredible views of bushclad hills and blue waters. Regular boat services from Picton provide access to the resort, which is a playground for sailing, fishing, walking and kayaking. Facilities: 1, 2, or 3 bedroom apartments with flat screen television, stereo entertainment system, contemporary kitchenette, telephone and Internet connection, spacious wardrobes, security safe and private balcony overlooking the bay. Property features a restaurant, which reflects the abundance of the area’s fresh produce, a café and pool.