Hawke's Bay Historic Wineries Tour - Featuring NZ oldest Winery

Overview

Available languages

English

Mobile ticket

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

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

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Mission Estate Winery

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 Not Applicable

Napier

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 Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Alcoholic Beverages

Air-conditioned vehicle

Options