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Offered languages
- English
Step back in time on our Hawke’s Bay Historic Wineries Tour. Visit Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery, founded by French missionaries in 1851, and taste elegant wines while exploring the beautifully preserved seminary and cellars.
Drive through historic Taradale, lined with charming villas and early settler cottages that tell the story of Hawke’s Bay’s wine pioneers.
Next, we will visit Church Road Winery, established in 1897 by Tom McDonald, father of New Zealand’s fine reds.
To finish, we’ll take you up to Bluff Hill Lookout for sweeping views over Napier Port, the Pacific Ocean, and Napier’s Art Deco skyline.
Not your average wine tour — experience the heritage in every glass!
- Visit Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery
- Explore historic cellars and buildings
- Guided tastings of premium Hawke’s Bay wines
- Learn the region’s winemaking history
- Travel through scenic vineyards and countryside
- Expert guide offering rich historical context
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Due to restrictions at Napier Port, we are not able to pick up at the port if the group is less than 6. If your booking is for 5 people or fewer, please take the free shuttle bus from the port and meet us at the National Aquarium
The National Aquarium is located along Marine Parade in Napier. Your guide will be waiting for you by the van. The Van will be marked Mates Travel and will be parked at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure Cruise passengers, take the free shuttle bus from the port to the aquarium.
This tour ends at the Napier I-site, which is close to town for further exploration of Napier city. Cruise passenger, you will be able to take the free shuttle bus back to Napier Port from this location.
Itinerary
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1
Step back in time, this tour visits the remarkable Mission Estate New Zealands oldest vineyard & winery, established in 1851 by French missionaries. Learn the rich history and explore the historical buildings gaining insight into the pioneering spirit that helped shape Hawke’s Bay’s winemaking legacy—all while enjoying a tasting of the Estates expertly crafted wines.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
2
Along the way, your guide will share stories of the land, the people, and the evolution of Hawke’s Bay as a world-class wine destination. As we journey through historic Taradale, you’ll see charming villas and early cottages that once housed vineyard workers who shaped the region’s winemaking story. Hear about the families and events that built Hawke’s Bay into New Zealand’s premier wine region.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Our next stop is Church Road Winery, established in 1897 by Tom McDonald, a pioneer of fine New Zealand reds. Depending on availability, you’ll experience their heritage-listed cellar and taste award-winning wines in a setting steeped in history. In a case where church road isn't open we will still take in the beauty of this heritage rich winery before we head to another stunning Hawke's Bay winery for our second tasting. We won't disappoint!
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4
To finish, we’ll take you up to Bluff Hill Lookout for sweeping views over Napier Port, the Pacific Ocean, and Napier’s Art Deco skyline — a breathtaking vantage point to reflect on the region’s landscape, history, and enduring wine legacy.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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