Adventure Collective
Explore Matakana: Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Experience Near Auckland - Auckland

Explore Matakana: Jade Carving, Honey Tasting & Wine Experience Near Auckland

Aucklandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

9 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers with average fitness comfortable with walking up to 3 miles.

Overview

Discover the unique charm of Matakana on this private day tour from Auckland. Meander the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, savor local wines, carve your own jade necklace, and taste native honey while immersing in New Zealand’s natural and artistic heritage.

Auckland, Auckland

Jade Carving, Honey & Wine Tasting Private Tour

9 hours

Wine

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on an enchanting private tour to Matakana, just 45 minutes from Auckland. Experience the stunning Brick Bay Sculpture Trail, savor exquisite wines, and enjoy lunch in a glass restaurant with vineyard views. Create a unique jade necklace, taste local honey, and immerse yourself in the region's art and nature.

Explore Auckland’s World Class Organic Village on a day trip from the City!

Duration

6 Hours

Tour Highlights

  • Pick up from Auckland CBD.
  • Snacks & water.
  • Sculptureum Admission (2 outdoor sculpture gardens & 6 indoor art galleries).
  • Chocolate Tasting and Hot Chocolate Drink.
  • Option to do: Wine Tasting at two Boutique Vineyards OR 5 Beer Tastings & Brewery Tour
  • Matakana Farmer’s Market (Market operates only on Saturdays)
  • Drop Off in Auckland CBD

About

Explore Auckland’s countryside, where art meets winemaking and a gastronomy that will move your sense.

Tour starts by picking you up from Auckland CBD and will bring you to Matakana, a small town 45 minutes north of Auckland.

Here you will visit the amazing Sculptureum, created by Anthony Grant, a magical place where creativity meets inspiration. The word Sculptureum is a combination of “Sculpture” and “Museum”. In fact, this is what it is: an amazing collection of colorful sculptures from all over the world, created with the purpose to enrich people and make them reflect on what makes life more interesting and enjoyable. You will visit the 2 outdoor sculpture gardens and 6 indoor art galleries.

After the visit, we will take you to taste some of the local artisan chocolates while watching the chocolatiers creating The Chocolate art, you will also have a Hot Drink. whether the signature hot chocolate, coffee or tea.

You can choose between 2 different options. If you are a wine lover, you have a Wine Tasting at two Boutique Vineyards, otherwise, if you prefer beer, 5 beer tastings and a brewery tour at one of Auckland’s Top Breweries.

If your visit is on Saturdays then you will the opportunity to visit the Matakana Village Farmer’s Market, a true heaven for the local organic produce like nowhere else in Auckland City.

Once you finish, the tour will be back to Auckland CBD.

Adventure Tips

Book a morning start

Begin early to fully enjoy the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail before the afternoon crowds arrive.

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The tour includes light walking on bush trails and village strolls, so supportive footwear is recommended.

Bring a camera or smartphone

Capture the striking sculptures and vineyard views along the trail and during tasting sessions.

Notify of dietary restrictions ahead of time

Ensure the lunch venue can accommodate allergies or special diets to enhance your dining experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • New Zealand fantail (Piwakawaka)
  • Native tui bird known for its distinctive song

History

Matakana’s jade carving tradition is deeply linked to Maori culture, where pounamu is considered a sacred taonga (treasure).

Conservation

The Brick Bay Sculpture Trail prioritizes environmental preservation by integrating artworks naturally within native bush, encouraging sustainable tourism.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Ideal for strolling through sculpture trails and village shops with uneven terrain.

Light rain jacket

Essential

spring specific

Sun hat and sunscreen

Essential

Protect yourself during outdoor wine tastings and bush walks in warmer months.

summer specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture scenic views, art, and memorable moments throughout the tour.