Plan your journey
Take your time to savour the countless tastings, experiences, and sights along the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. The self-guided trail can be completed in 5-6 days, but we recommend 8-10 days to make the most of your experience.
Whether you're travelling from the north or south, the 380km trail is well-signposted, marked by distinctive brown grape signs.
From Auckland, drive south to Napier, Hawke’s Bay via the Thermal Explorer Highway or Pacific Coast Highway. If you're coming from Christchurch, take the scenic Coastal Pacific train to Blenheim, Marlborough.
The Interislander ferry offers a captivating three-hour journey between the North and South Islands, showcasing awe-inspiring views. Bringing your vehicle is as easy as parking, and for added luxury, upgrade to the Premium Plus lounges, featuring free wifi, a hot meal, and beverages.
For local recommendations or help with bookings throughout New Zealand, drop by any of the isite Visitor Information Centres along the trail. They can also help you with local wine maps.
Maps and drive times
Download the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail Map [PDF 193KB]
On the wine trail
Napier to Masterton
2 hours 45 minutes
Masterton to Martinborough
40 minutes
Martinborough to Wellington
1 hour 15 minutes
Wellington to Picton (ferry)
3 hours 15 minutes
Wellington to Blenheim (plane)
30 minutes
Picton to Blenheim
25 minutes
Beyond the wine trail
Napier to Rotorua
3 hours
Napier to Taupō
2 hours
Blenheim to Kaikōura
1 hour 35 minutes
Blenheim to Nelson
1 hour 30 minutes
Kaikōura to Christchurch
2 hours and 30 minutes
Explore the regional websites
Book a package
Several travel companies offer packages to help you easily explore the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail and other parts of New Zealand. Package inclusions vary, so contact them directly to discuss what will best suit your needs.
Flight Centre UK: Gourmet New Zealand
Across 18 days, take in the best of New Zealand’s flavour-filled towns and stunning countryside. Explore a Māori village, take a food tour of Wellington, sample the wines of Hawke’s Bay and Blenheim, and indulge in the delicacies of Queenstown.
First Light Travel: NZ Wine, Food & Art Tour
This 13-day self-drive food and wine tour explores unspoiled landscapes combined with great food and wine. Visit the seaside towns of Kaikōura and Picton, the vibrant capital of Wellington, and the views and cultural heritage in Northland.
Audley Travel UK: NZ’s Food & Wine Trail
Let Audley Travel take care of your visit with travel, accommodation, and 24-hour support. Experience the best New Zealand has to offer with their 21-day self-drive journey. Starting in Dunedin, you’ll travel the CNZWT to Waiheke Island in Auckland.
The Road Trip: 15-Day CNZWT Tour
Embark on a 15-day Classic New Zealand Wine Trail tour. Enjoy fine wine and local cuisine at your own pace, amid the diverse landscapes of Aotearoa. Immerse yourself in the distinct flavours of each region, with the freedom to explore independently.