Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour

Exploring the Bay of Islands: A Guide to the Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour

If you’re considering a fun, relaxed way to sample some of the Bay of Islands’ best local beverages, this 4-hour wine, spirit, and craft beer tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve been lucky enough to experience similar excursions and know how much they can add to your visit. It’s a great way to combine scenic views with tasting experiences and learn about New Zealand’s vibrant craft scene.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the small group size—limited to just 11 participants—which ensures personalized attention and a cozy vibe. Plus, the platter lunch at Marsden Estate combined with the wine tastings sounds like a highlight. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for kids under 18, so it’s more of a grown-up affair. It’s perfect if you’re after a laid-back, taste-focused afternoon rather than a family adventure, but if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates good drinks and scenic views, this could be a winner.

In this review, we’ll walk through what to expect from each stop, why the experience might resonate with you, and some honest pointers to help you decide if it fits your style. So, let’s dive into the details of this popular Bay of Islands outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small group experience: Limited to 11 people for a more personalized tour.
• Diverse tastings: Enjoy wine, craft beers, and spirits, each with unique qualities.
• Beautiful scenery: The Bay of Islands setting enhances the relaxed vibe and photo ops.
• Tasty lunch included: A generous platter lunch paired with wine at Marsden Estate.
• Educational aspect: Learn about local wine-making and brewing processes.
• Great value: Combines multiple tasting experiences with transportation and lunch.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This small-group tour kicks off at either the Paihia I-site or in Kerikeri, depending on your choice. With a maximum of just 11 travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd — instead, you get a more intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who are eager to share insights.

The tour’s structure is straightforward but thoughtfully curated, focusing on showcasing the best of the Bay of Islands’ local beverages while giving you a taste of the scenery along the way. It’s designed to be a relaxed, enjoyable afternoon — perfect for those who appreciate good drinks and scenic landscapes.

The Stops in Detail

1. Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins at the Paihia I-site or a designated pickup point in Kerikeri, with pickup times at 1.30 pm and 2.00 pm respectively. This flexibility is handy if you’re staying in either of these towns. From here, a comfortable van whisks you off on your tasting adventure, setting the tone for a fun few hours.

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2. Marsden Estate – The First Stop

The first stop is Marsden Estate, a family-run vineyard with a 30-year history. Here, you’ll enjoy six wine tastings in a casual courtyard overlooking lakes and vines — a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for sipping and learning. The highlight is the platter lunch, served with wine, in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good opportunity to chat, relax, and savor the flavors in a setting that makes you feel like a local.

According to reviews, the wines at Marsden Estate are a definite highlight. Travelers praise the “delicious wine” and the “carefully chosen” locations, which add to the overall charm of the experience.

3. Phat House Brewery – Craft Beer & Cider

Next, you’ll head to Phat House Brewery near Haruru Falls, a small craft brewery founded in 2015. What makes this stop special is their focus on natural ingredients and craftsmanship — beers that are unfiltered, unpasteurized, and preservative-free. Here, you can choose up to four sample-sized drinks from a broad range of beers and ciders.

Guests have noted the passionate owners and the quality of the beers, with reviews mentioning how much they enjoyed the variety. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just curious about local brewing, this stop is both informative and flavorful.

4. Bad Habits — The Spirit Haven

The final tasting spot is Bad Habits in Paihia, a bar that stocks what’s claimed to be the largest range of NZ-made spirits north of Auckland. From gin to rum, vodka, whiskey, and liqueurs, there’s plenty to explore. You’ll get to taste three spirits with food samples that complement each drink.

The reviews emphasize how knowledgeable staff are and how much they appreciated the chance to taste a broad spectrum of spirits in one place. If spirits tasting is your thing, this is the perfect cap to your afternoon.

Additional Highlights and Practical Details

• Scenic views: The entire trip is set against the backdrop of the stunning Bay of Islands, with plenty of photo opportunities en route.
• Educational insights: Guides share stories about each producer and the process behind the beverages, adding depth to the tasting experience.
• Purchase opportunities: Most venues sell bottles, so you can pick up your favorites to take home as souvenirs.
• Duration & Pacing: The whole experience lasts about 4 hours, with ample time at each stop, including a generous lunch break.
• Transport & Group Size: Comfortable transportation in a small group makes for a cozy vibe, and the limited group size means more interaction.
• Cost & Value: While price isn’t specified here, considering tastings, lunch, and transportation, it offers good value, especially if you enjoy curated tasting experiences.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is great for adults who enjoy good drinks, scenic travel, and learning about local craftsmanship. If you’re after a relaxed afternoon with friends or a romantic outing, it hits the right notes. It’s less suited for families or those traveling with kids under 18, as the focus is on alcohol tastings.

Travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and a more intimate setting will find this particularly appealing. It’s also fantastic for anyone wanting to explore New Zealand’s vibrant craft alcohol scene without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, enjoyable afternoon in the Bay of Islands that combines scenic beauty with local flavors, this Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour deserves serious consideration. The combination of knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and beautiful surroundings makes it more than just a drinking tour — it’s a chance to connect with the local culture and craftsmanship in a relaxed way.

The small group size and inclusion of a platter lunch mean you’ll feel cared for without the busyness of large tours. Plus, the opportunity to buy bottles and souvenirs makes it a nice way to remember your trip.

If this sounds like your kind of afternoon, it’s worth booking ahead, especially during peak seasons. Just remember, it’s a grown-up experience, perfect if you’re in the mood to relax, learn, and taste the best the Bay of Islands has to offer.

FAQs About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for anyone under 18, as it involves tastings of wine, spirits, and craft beers.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 4 hours, including visits to all the venues, lunch, and transportation time.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get tastings at each venue, a platter lunch at Marsden Estate, transportation in a small group van, and a guided experience.

Can I buy souvenirs or bottles to take home?
Yes, most venues offer the chance to purchase bottles of wine, spirits, or craft beers to remember your trip.

Where does the tour start?
Pick-up points are at the Paihia I-site or in Kerikeri at the BP Service Station, with times at 1.30 pm and 2.00 pm respectively.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm at booking for any specific needs.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

How many people are on the tour?
It’s a small group, limited to 11 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Travelers frequently mention the guides’ friendliness and expertise, enhancing the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: