How many days?

We believe you need at least six days to travel the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, but if you want to get the maximum amount of pleasure from your holiday, allow up to two weeks. The Trail is more enjoyable if you go slow and savour.

When you’re travelling between regions, allow plenty of time so that you can do things on the spur of the moment. You might see an appealing walkway, picnic area or shop that’s not on your itinerary.

Which direction?

Travellers usually explore the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail from north to south, because most international visitors arrive in Auckland. It’s just as easy to start in Marlborough and travel north. Some people even like to do the Trail in both directions, choosing different experiences on the return journey.

Linking to other driving routes

You can easily link to another New Zealand touring route to create an even grander journey. The Thermal Explorer Highway and Pacific Coast Highway are two different ways to drive from Auckland to Hawke’s Bay. From Marlborough you can drive south to join the Alpine Pacific Triangle and Inland Scenic Route 72. There are international airports in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.

Staying on track

The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is marked with brown road signs displaying grapes. Even if you decide to do a whirlwind five-day itinerary, you’ll only drive for around three hours a day on high quality roads and highways. Traffic is generally light in New Zealand, so driving is relatively stress-free.

The joys of spring and autumn

While many travellers choose to visit New Zealand in summer, the seasons on each side have their own special appeal.

Spring is a time of new growth, new release wines, garden events and special food opportunities, such as the start of the whitebait season. Enjoy classic spring scenery involving daffodils, newborn lambs and verdant green countryside.

Autumn is a season of settled weather and glorious colours. It’s harvest time in the vineyards and the farmers’ markets are brimming with delicious produce. The water’s still warm enough for swimming and the countryside is toasted golden.

Take the two wheeled approach

If you'd like to work up a thirst or appetite, how about experiencing the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail by bicycle? It's a great way to slow down and get up close and personal with the environment and experience our 'Kiwi' culture. There's a variety of scenery, terrain and routes to suit all abilities. There are plenty of options available, from do-it-yourself wine tasting tours amongst the vines, mountain biking the surrounding forests or riding the entire Wine trial for those seeking more adventure. www.cycleturismo.com

Travelling between the North & South Islands

Interislander ferries travel between the North and South Islands of New Zealand and the trip is one of the most spectacular cruises in the world. With 92 km of breathtaking views, the three-hour journey between Wellington and Picton really is one of New Zealand's most iconic tourism activities. Taking a vehicle with Interislander is as easy as parking in a car park building - just drive on and drive off. www.interislander.co.nz