WELLINGTON WINERY FIELD GUIDE
Across the Remutaka to Martinborough: A 5.5‑Hour Cellar‑Door Circuit from Wellington
A 5.5-hour guided tour from Wellington that combines private transport, expert narration and cellar‑door tastings at three of Martinborough’s premier wineries—useful for planning timing, logistics and what to bring.
Across the Remutaka to Martinborough: A 5.5‑Hour Cellar‑Door Circuit from Wellington.
Embark on a compact, guided 5.5‑hour journey from Wellington into the heart of the Wairarapa to visit Martinborough’s boutique wineries. The route climbs to the Remutaka Summit for sweeping views before dropping into the small, family‑run vineyards of Martinborough for three cellar‑door visits and tasting sessions, with private transport and expert narration throughout.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Remutaka Summit Panorama
The drive pauses at the 555m Remutaka Summit Lookout to take in panoramic views over the ranges and learn about the local landscape before descending into the Wairarapa valley.
Three Cellar‑Door Tastings
Visit three of Martinborough’s top wineries to sample cellar‑door tastings—often showcasing the region’s celebrated Pinot Noir—and hear about local winemaking from cellar‑door hosts.
Private Transport and Expert Narration
The tour includes private transportation from Wellington and commentary from a driver‑guide who shares region history and insights during the drive there and back.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The day is a tidy loop: morning pickups in Wellington, a scenic drive through the Hutt Valley to the Remutaka Summit lookout, then a slow unhurried afternoon in Martinborough visiting three boutique vineyards with guided tastings and time for lunch before a relaxed return to the capital.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should sit it out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pick up and drop off take place at the Pick Up and Drop Off lane on the Wakefield Street side of Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre (217 Wakefield Street). Tour pickups occur between 09:30 and 10:00 with departure from Wellington at 10:00.
The full excursion runs approximately 5.5 hours and returns to Wellington around 15:30.
You may be asked to show valid photo identification to confirm you are 18 years or older. For overseas visitors a passport is the universally accepted form of ID under New Zealand law.
Lunch during the second winery stop is at guests’ expense; consider bringing funds if you plan to buy food or bottles to take home.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, returning to Wellington around 15:30.
Where do I meet the tour?
Pick up and drop off are at the Pick Up and Drop Off lane on the Wakefield Street side of Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre (217 Wakefield Street), with pickups between 09:30 and 10:00.
Are tastings and transport included?
The tour includes private transportation and guided visits to three wineries with cellar‑door tastings; lunch is at guests’ expense.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes. You must be 18 years or older to participate.
What ID do I need for tastings?
You may be asked to show valid photo identification; for overseas visitors a passport is the universally accepted form of ID under New Zealand law.
Can pregnant travelers join?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.