Explore the iconic Martinborough wine region—a jewel of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail—on a private, fully curated 6-hour wine journey. This experience is personally tailored to your specific tastes and interests, led by a qualified wine educator (WSET 3) with deep regional knowledge.
Your day offers a deeper understanding of Martinborough’s unique terroir, winemaking philosophies, and signature varietals (including their world-famous Pinot Noir). You will visit five hand-selected vineyards, ranging from boutique family estates to iconic labels, ensuring an immersive look into the heart of New Zealand winemaking.
Highlights
- Fully Personalized: An itinerary shaped around your specific wine interests.
- Expert Guidance: Hosted by John Penney, a WSET 3 qualified wine educator.
- Vineyard Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed, scenic lunch among the vines (included).
- Exclusive Access: Tastings at 5 boutique and iconic Martinborough vineyards.
- Seamless Logistics: Stress-free pick-up and drop-off options from Martinborough, Wellington, or Masterton.
Itinerary
- Pick-up: 9:30 AM (Martinborough/Featherston/Greytown). Note: Earlier times apply for Wellington (8:00 AM) and Masterton (9:00 AM).
- Morning: Guided tastings at premier boutique vineyards with expert commentary on viticulture and regional styles.
- Lunch: A relaxed vineyard-style lunch surrounded by stunning wine-country scenery.
- Afternoon: Continued exploration of the region with further tastings and insights into winemaking philosophies.
- Drop-off: Approximately 4:30 PM (Later for Wellington/Masterton).
What’s Included
- Private hosting by a qualified wine educator.
- Visits and tasting fees at 5 vineyards.
- Relaxed vineyard-style lunch.
- Tailored itinerary and regional transport.
What’s Not Included
- Personal purchases (bottles of wine, gifts).
- Public transport (if choosing one-way pick-up).
Additional Information & Pricing
- Pricing (2+ Guests): NZ$ 450 per person
- Single Guest: NZ$ 500
- Child (Limit 1): NZ$ 75 (Includes lunch & water)
Optional Pick-up Add-ons:
- Masterton: +NZ$ 50 pp
- Wellington (One-way): +NZ$ 75 pp
- Wellington (Return): +NZ$ 120 pp
Important Notes:
- Standard Capacity: 4 guests (up to 6 can be accommodated by prior arrangement).
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate layers, and a camera.
- Cancellation: Full refund if cancelled more than 14 days out; 50% refund between 48 hours and 7 days. No refund within 48 hours.
Host Information:
John Penney, Qualified wine experience guide (WSET3 with distinction), Wine Educator & Writer. Languages English & Thai
Top reviews
About the experience
Local Guide:
Experience duration
6 Hours 0 Minutes
Number of wineries visited
5
Style of wines served
Things to see
- Vineyards
- Winery
- Cellar
- Tasting Room
Transport included?
Yes, all transport included
Food included?
Restaurant
Languages spoken:
Location
7 Dublin Street, Martinborough 5711, New Zealand
Experience starting point
I pick guests up from their accommodation anywhere in South Wairarapa, e.g. Martinborough, Featherston, Greytown. Pickups are also available from Carterton, Masterton or Wellington with a surcharge.
Experience ending point
The same as starting point
Visitor reviews
What our community thinks about John Penney
Check out verified reviews from visitors who've enjoyed their time at John Penney.
Write a reviewReviews (1)
A Must Do
Reviewed on May 20, 2026
A Must Do
John’s tour was first class. While the logistics of the day were perfect, the transport, organization of the wineries, etc, it’s John’s knowledge and love of place and people that elevate the experience. Every cellar we walked into not only knew John but respected his presence as he’s either hosted the head winemaker at his house, walked/picked the vineyard, helped the cellar door with product etc. My wife and I always do walking tours in a new town, this was by far the best we had experienced. Sign up for the this tour and ride the coattails of Johns experience and gravitas in this wonderful community.
Reply: Thank you!
Reviewed on May 20, 2026
Reply: Thank you!
Thank you Mitch for your kind words. It was a pleasure to host you and Kristen