Kumeu Wine Tour

If you’re exploring Auckland and craving a taste of New Zealand’s renowned wine and countryside, the Kumeu Wine Tour might just be your ideal day out. This tour offers a gentle, well-curated experience that combines wine tasting, scenic views, and a bit of local flavor—all without the hassle of driving yourself. We’re here to give you a detailed look, based on plenty of glowing reviews, so you can decide if it suits your travel style.

What really draws us to this tour are two standout features: the personalized, small-group setting that makes it feel intimate and relaxed, and the variety of stops, from boutique wineries to a stunning bird colony at Muriwai Beach. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s priced at around $170, which might seem a little steep for some, but considering the included tastings, lunch, and scenic stops, many find it well worth it. This experience suits anyone who loves good wine, appreciates beautiful scenery, and prefers a laid-back approach over self-driving.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
• Includes lunch and wine tastings at notable wineries, making it good value.
• Scenic stops like Muriwai Beach and the gannet colony add a memorable touch.
• Professional guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and fun nature.
• Comfortable transport and punctual pickups make the day stress-free.
• Flexible and family-friendly for those who enjoy wine and scenic outings (not specifically for kids).

Exploring the Itinerary: What’s in Store?

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, and with a duration of around 4 to 6 hours, it’s a pretty manageable half-day outing. You’ll be picked up from a designated meeting point in Auckland, and the transportation is typically a comfy van, making the journey between stops smooth and easy. With a maximum of 10 travelers, it’s small enough to feel intimate but lively enough to enjoy some great conversations.

First Stop: Soljans Estate Winery

Your first taste of Kumeu’s wine scene is at Soljans Estate Winery, founded by Tony Soljan. This family-operated vineyard, with roots going back quite some time, offers a warm introduction to the region’s wine craftsmanship. Expect a 45-minute visit with a tasting included. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the hosts are here, with one even calling it a “fantastic” experience right out of the gate. The setting is charming, and the wines, particularly the Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, are highlighted as hits.

Second Stop: The Hunting Lodge Winery & Restaurant

Next, you’ll head to The Hunting Lodge Winery, a restored 1868 homestead just outside Auckland. Here, you’ll spend around 30 minutes tasting wines and soaking in the historic ambiance. The lawn bar and seasonal dining options add a relaxed, inviting vibe. Guests often mention how welcoming the atmosphere is and how the guide’s stories enrich the experience. It’s the kind of spot that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a piece of Kiwi history.

Muriwai Gannet Colony: Nature’s Spectacle

After the wineries, the tour takes you to Muriwai, about a 30-minute drive away, where you’ll visit the gannet colony. This stop is a crowd favorite—many reviews highlight how impressive it is to see these nesting birds, especially between August and March when the colony is active. Even if you’re not a bird enthusiast, the rugged scenery and ocean views are sure to captivate. Reviewers describe it as a “spectacular sight” and a perfect chance for photos, walks, and just absorbing some fresh sea air.

Third Winery: Westbrook Winery

Back to wine, your next stop is Westbrook Winery for about 3 hours. Here, you’ll enjoy tasting a variety of wines, including Riesling, and savor a cheese or antipasto platter. This extra touch enhances the experience, letting you relax and really savor the region’s offerings. Multiple reviews praise the quality of wines—names like Westbrook Riesling and Kumeu River Chardonnay repeatedly come up as favorites. The scenery here is also noteworthy, giving you a calm, picturesque backdrop for your tasting.

Optional Final Stop: Hallertau Brewery

For those interested, there’s an optional final stop at Hallertau Brewery to sample craft beers (at your own expense). While this isn’t included in the base price, it offers a chance to switch gears from wine to beer, if that’s your thing. Many guests have appreciated this flexibility, especially if they’re beer lovers or want a bit more variety before wrapping up the day.

What Travelers Are Saying

The consistent theme in reviews is high praise for guides, especially for their friendliness, local knowledge, and the ability to keep the atmosphere light and fun. One reviewer even said, “Jose was an amazing tour guide,” emphasizing personal attention and a warm vibe. Multiple reviews mention the variety of wines and scenery as highlights, from the tasting rooms with their welcoming hosts to the views at Muriwai Beach.

A standout comment from a reviewer sums it up: “The wine experience presents a wide variety of wines along with, of course, information on their crafting. But the highlight is standing next to gannets at their nesting grounds.” This captures how the tour isn’t just about wine—it’s about experiencing a slice of Auckland’s natural beauty.

Many reviewers appreciate the delicious pizza lunch, often described as a highlight, with some noting that dietary needs, like gluten-free options, were well accommodated. The comfortable transport and punctual pickups also earn praise, making the whole day feel seamless and stress-free.

But there are some considerations

One reviewer pointed out that the value might be a little high for some, especially if the wineries don’t quite meet their expectations. While most felt the experience was worth it, a few thought the tour could improve in wine selection or presentation at certain stops. Also, since the tour includes a fair amount of travel, it might not be ideal for those looking for a purely wine-focused experience without scenic breaks.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves wine, scenic views, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, this tour hits the right notes. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or even solo travelers who want a guided experience that’s not overwhelming. The small group size fosters personal interaction, and the mix of wine, history, and nature makes it versatile.

It’s also a great choice for foodies who enjoy pairing wine with cheese or antipasto, and those who want to escape Auckland’s city buzz for a few hours. However, if your main goal is to taste only the very best wines without sightseeing or you’re after a more upscale, exclusive winery experience, this might not be the perfect fit.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up from a designated meeting point in Auckland and transported comfortably to each stop, with a small group ensuring a relaxed trip.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on group size and traffic, making it a manageable half-day outing.

Are lunch and tastings included?
Yes, the tour includes a pizza lunch and wine tastings at three wineries, alongside other scenic stops like the gannet colony.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on wine, the tour’s scenic and cultural highlights still make it enjoyable. You might consider sharing tastings or just soaking in the views.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
It’s primarily designed for adults interested in wine and scenery. Since alcohol is involved, it’s not specifically targeted at kids.

What is the price for this experience?
It costs around $170.66 per person, which many find reasonable given the included tastings, lunch, and scenic stops, but it’s good to weigh whether the value matches your expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Kumeu Wine Tour offers a relaxed, well-rounded taste of Auckland’s wine country, with a little extra—scenic views, friendly guides, and a delicious lunch. It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts who enjoy learning about regional varieties without the pressure of formal tastings, and for travelers wanting a break from city sightseeing.

While it’s on the pricier side, most guests feel it’s justified by the quality of the experience and the personalized attention. If you’re after a laid-back day immersed in nature, good wine, and local stories, this tour could be a highlight of your Auckland trip.

For travelers who value comfort, a small-group atmosphere, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s definitely worth considering. Just remember to book ahead, especially during peak times, and prepare for a fun, scenic, and tasty journey through New Zealand’s premier wine region.