How to Find Guided Wine Tastings in Queenstown and Central Otago
- Joe Waide
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
If you’re visiting Queenstown or Central Otago and want to experience the region’s wineries without driving, a guided wine tasting tour is one of the easiest and most enjoyable options.
Guided wine tastings allow you to visit multiple wineries in one day, enjoy tastings responsibly, and learn about local wines from knowledgeable hosts. These tours are especially popular with visitors who want a relaxed experience without worrying about transport, planning, or navigating unfamiliar roads.
What Is a Guided Wine Tasting?
A guided wine tasting is a hosted experience where guests are taken to selected wineries by a professional guide. Transport is included, so there is no need to self-drive between locations.
Most guided wine tours include:
Pick-up and drop-off from a central location or accommodation
Visits to several wineries in one day
Guided tastings with winery staff or a tour host
Time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the region’s wines
Guided tours are suitable for all levels of wine knowledge, from first-time tasters to experienced wine lovers.
Where Are the Best Wine Regions Near Queenstown?
Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions and includes several distinct areas:
Queenstown & Gibbston Valley – Known for cool-climate wines, especially Pinot Noir
Wanaka – A scenic base for wine tours combining lakes, mountains, and boutique wineries
Cromwell & Bannockburn – Famous for premium Pinot Noir and smaller, family-run vineyards
Many guided wine tours operate across these regions, allowing guests to experience different styles and landscapes in a single day.
Do Guided Wine Tours Include Transport?
Yes. One of the main benefits of a guided wine tasting is that transport is included.
Most tours provide:
Transfers from accommodation or a central meeting point
Comfortable vehicles suitable for small groups
A planned route that maximizes time at wineries
This allows guests to enjoy tastings safely and focus on the experience rather than logistics.
How Long Do Guided Wine Tastings Last?
Guided wine tours typically range from half-day to full-day experiences.
Half-day tours usually last around 4 to 5 hours
Full-day tours can last 6 to 8 hours and may include more wineries or a longer lunch stop
The exact duration depends on the tour selected and the regions visited.
Are Food and Wine Tastings Included?
Wine tastings are generally included as part of a guided tour. Some tours also include light food options such as cheese platters or shared grazing boards.
Details about inclusions vary by tour, so it’s best to check individual tour descriptions before booking.
Who Are Guided Wine Tastings Best For?
Guided wine tastings are ideal for:
Visitors unfamiliar with the region
Couples and small groups
Travelers who prefer not to self-drive
Anyone wanting a relaxed, hosted experience
They are designed to be enjoyable, social, and informative, without requiring prior wine knowledge.
How Do You Book a Guided Wine Tasting in Queenstown or Central Otago?
Most guided wine tours can be booked online in advance. It’s recommended to book ahead, especially during peak travel seasons, as small-group tours often have limited availability.
When booking, look for clear information about:
Regions covered
Duration
Inclusions (tastings, food, transport)
Departure locations
This ensures you choose the experience that best fits your travel plans.
Guided Wine Tastings with WanaHaka® in Central Otago
WanaHaka® offers guided wine tours in Queenstown, Wanaka, and the wider Central Otago region, combining carefully selected winery visits with local knowledge, storytelling, and comfortable transport.
Their wine tours are designed for guests who want a relaxed, hosted experience, with tastings included and no need to self-drive. Some tours also incorporate Māori cultural elements that connect the wines to the land and history of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Tours can be booked online, with options ranging from half-day to full-day experiences depending on location and itinerary.