This shore tour is not yet available for purchase. Specific details for this program are not yet finalized and the tour elements are subject to change. An email announcement will be sent to all confirmed group members 4 to 5 months before departure.

Sitting quietly at the foot of New Zealand’s North Island is the charming and historic village of Martinborough, which is also the center of a small wine-growing district of the same name. Most of the district’s 58 cellar doors are walking distance from the village. The journey to Martinborough from Wellington is a little over an hour and a half but according to your local wine expert and guide, “the wines are well worth the drive.” The majority of Martinborough’s planted vines are Pinot Noir, but additional varietals have added depth and complexity to the Martinborough story: distinctive Sauvignon Blanc, elegant full-flavored Chardonnay, appealingly aromatic Riesling and Pinot Gris are all gaining recognition. It all started in the late 1970s when a few brave souls followed the advice of a soil scientist and converted farmland into vineyards, which proved to all that Martinborough is indeed well suited for viticulture.

After a scenic drive over the wild and beautiful Rimutaka Range you will visit one of the best producers in the area for a tasting and wine-paired lunch followed by visit to the historic village of Martinborough.