Breadcrumb
Blog view

A Taste of New Zealand: The Ultimate Food and Wine Journey


Discover the flavours of New Zealand, where world-class wine, farm-to-table dining, and breathtaking landscapes blend into an unforgettable gourmet experience. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious about our culinary culture, this is your guide to the best of New Zealand food and wine.

Where to Go | Top New Zealand Food and Wine Regions

Marlborough Sounds

Marlborough | Sauvignon Blanc Heaven

The Marlborough region, located at the top of the South Island, is home to over 150 wineries and is internationally renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy a private tasting, cycle between cellar doors, or indulge in a long lunch overlooking the vines.

Don’t miss: Cloudy Bay, Wairau River Wines, a seafood cruise through the Marlborough Sounds.

Hawkes Bay Wine

Hawke’s Bay | Art Deco Meets Epicurean Delight

On the North Island’s east coast, Hawke’s Bay combines stunning architecture, boutique vineyards, and a thriving farm-to-table scene. It’s also New Zealand’s oldest wine region, known for rich reds and elegant Chardonnays.

Top experiences: Mission Estate Winery (New Zealand’s oldest), private vineyard dinners, and the famous Hawke’s Bay Farmers’ Market.

Central Otago Wine

Central Otago | Pinot Noir and Alpine Views

Set among dramatic mountains and lakes, Central Otago is a paradise for Pinot Noir lovers. The cool climate and mineral-rich soils produce some of the country’s most celebrated wines.

Make time for: Gibbston Valley wine caves, exclusive tastings, and seasonal food and wine pairings.

Kinross Food

What to Taste: Iconic New Zealand Flavours

Green-lipped mussels – best enjoyed fresh with a crisp Marlborough white.
Lamb – grass-fed and tender, often paired with a bold Central Otago red.
Pāua, crayfish and bluff oysters – prized delicacies, especially on the South Island.
Kūmara (sweet potato), horopito, kawakawa – ingredients rooted in Māori culinary traditions.

Hapuku Kitchen

Luxury Food and Wine Tours in New Zealand

A tailor-made gourmet itinerary is the ultimate way to explore New Zealand’s culinary landscape. Think private vineyard tours, heli-picnics among the vines, and behind-the-scenes access to award-winning chefs and winemakers.

Let our New Zealand travel specialists craft a food and wine journey that matches your tastes, pace, and interests.

Ready to Sip, Savour and Explore?

From the cellar doors of Marlborough to the artisan producers of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s food and wine experiences are second to none. Whether you prefer hands-on cooking classes, long vineyard lunches, or leisurely tastings by the sea, we’ll design the perfect gourmet escape just for you.

Speak to a New Zealand specialist today and start planning a culinary adventure you’ll never forget.

Speak to a NZ Specialist

 

Categories:
- The Best of New Zealand
- Luxury New Zealand
- Food & Wine Experiences

Published on: 22 Jul 2025, Written by: Neve Faed

Thanks for reading our blog

We have lots more information to share with you if you need it. Our team lives and works within New Zealand. We have travelled to every region and experienced the best (and worst) of what there is to offer.  If you have any questions about tours, locations or just want some friendly advice please reach out to us by chat, email, or phone. There is no penalty for getting in touch, we do NOT charge any consultant fees so you can take the hassle out of your travels for free!

If you are interested in planning a trip then please leave your details in the simple form below and we can provide you with support customising a tour just for you. 

Contact form
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Tour index
Check out our Top Touring Suggestions