Taste Buds Tour in Petone with Zozo Travel Limited
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires light walking and standing
Overview
Discover Petone’s coastal charm and artisan flavors on Zozo Travel Limited’s 5-hour Taste Buds Tour. From coffee roasts to craft beers, savor the local culinary craft along Wellington Harbour.
Taste Buds Tour: Petone
Ages 18+ • 5 Hours • Food and Coastal exploration! • Unbeatable Views
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About This Adventure
Embark on a delightful 5-hour culinary adventure in Petone, Wellington's historic gem. Experience specialty coffee roasting, savor unique cheeses, indulge in Italian classics, and create exquisite chocolates. Conclude with craft beer tastings, all while enjoying scenic coastal views and expert guidance. This tour promises a memorable exploration of local flavors.
Uncover the local delights and hidden foodie gems in Petone, one of Wellington's oldest settlements. This 5-hour tour takes your taste buds on an exciting journey through the rich history and offerings of local food and beverage artisans and importers.
Tour schedule: 0945 - 1445 (5 hours; Runs Tue- Fri)
Group size: 2 - 11
About
The tour begins with a scenic coastal drive along the western edge of Wellington Harbour, leading to the historic foreshore town of Petone. Your first stop is a specialty coffee roastery on the Petone foreshore, where you'll delve into its fascinating history and follow the incredible journey of its coffee beans from shrub to cup. Participate in a coffee roast, listening to the beans crack under intense heat as the aroma fills the room. Test your palate in a cupping session, matching the coffees to their tasting notes, before enjoying a famous flat white (or coffee of your choice).
Next, visit Zany Zeus Dairy and Cheese Factory: Sample a variety of cheeses, yogurts, and organic ice cream, including their unique smoked yogurt—the first of its kind in New Zealand.
Then, head to La Bella Italia: Hosted by Antonio Cacace, enjoy a freshly prepared Italian classic, with daily variations and vegetarian options available.
Indulge your sweet tooth at a local chocolatier: Participate in a tasting and chocolate-making lesson. Using French and European-inspired recipes adapted to locally sourced New Zealand products, the chocolatier blends in premium chocolates like the world-famous Valrhona Couverture Chocolate to create delectable treats.
Finally, visit a local craft brewery: Sample a range of locally produced craft beers.
The tour concludes with a drop-off back in Wellington at 2:45 PM.
Tour includes
- All entry/tasting fees and lunch.
- Complimentary pick up and drop off from i-SITE, Cruise Terminal or selected centrally located hotels.
- Professional and fully licensed driver guides.
- Live commentary on board.
- Private transportation for the duration of the tour (private vehicle).
- We typically use our fleet of Mercedes 12-seat Sprinters. Smaller or supplementary vehicles used when required.
Meeting Point:
If you haven’t booked your hotel yet, our default meeting point is the Pick Up and Drop Off lane on the Wakefield Street side of Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre (217 Wakefield Street). Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour starts.
What to Bring
Suitable clothing for the day
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance
Tours run Tuesday to Friday with limited group sizes; secure your spot ahead of time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
This tour involves short walks between stops; bring footwear suited for urban strolls and light activity.
Notify Dietary Requirements
Vegetarian options are available, but advanced notice ensures the best experience.
Bring a Water Bottle
Stay refreshed throughout your 5-hour culinary outing, especially during warmer months.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seabirds like the Australasian gannet
- Common flax snail in coastal dunes
History
Petone was one of Wellington’s earliest European settlements, with a rich maritime and industrial past dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Local artisans prioritize sustainable, small-batch production, supporting New Zealand’s commitment to eco-friendly food sourcing and low-impact tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wellington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for varied urban terrain and short strolls between stops.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Protects against coastal winds and sudden shifts in weather.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warm weather segments of the tour.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture vibrant coastal views and colorful treats along the way.