Is there an age limit to join the tour?

Guests of all ages can participate, but wine tasting is only suitable for those 18 and over.

Can I bring my own food or beverages?

Outside alcohol is not permitted, but snacks and food are available during the tour.

Are the vineyards accessible for guests with mobility issues?

Most vineyards accommodate guests with mobility needs, but it's best to inform us beforehand.

How many wineries do we visit?

The tour typically includes visits to 3-4 boutique wineries.

Dress comfortably with layers, and wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking.

Do I need to bring identification for wine tasting?

Yes, valid ID is required to participate in wine tastings.

Wine & Wilderness Tour: Discover Nelson's Vineyards

Nelson, located at the top of New Zealand's South Island, is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, sunny weather, and vibrant wine culture. The area’s rolling hills are dotted with vineyards that produce some of the country’s most celebrated wines. The 'Wine Exposed Nelson' tour offers an engaging way to immerse yourself in this renowned terroir, blending wine, history, and scenic beauty into one memorable experience. This tour takes guests through lush vineyards where family-owned wineries craft flavorful Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay amid stunning mountain vistas. The guides share stories of Nelson’s winemaking heritage, which dates back over a century, highlighting sustainable practices that protect the region’s natural charm. What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to taste wines directly from intimate boutique wineries, often with the winemakers themselves explaining their craft. The tour also includes a delightful local lunch featuring fresh, regional ingredients—perfect for pairing with the wines sampled throughout the day. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of Nelson’s landscapes, visitors have the chance to appreciate the intricate balance of climate and geology that influences the region’s wines. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this journey offers a rich taste of Nelson’s cultural and natural riches. The combination of scenic vineyard vistas and the warmth of local winemakers creates a truly unique outing—an essential addition for any wine lover visiting New Zealand’s South Island. As you sip on world-class wines, take in the sweeping views of the mountains and farmland that have shaped Nelson’s reputation as a wine capital. This tour exemplifies how Nelson’s natural environment and passionate local artisans make it a standout destination for wine and adventure travelers alike.

About Wine Art and Wilderness

Wine Art and Wilderness operates guided tours across Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Golden Bay, offering a blend of wine, art and nature experiences. The operator curates day tours and multi-activity adventures that bring guests into family-owned and boutique vineyards, vibrant local galleries and nationally significant natural landscapes.

Tours include vineyard tastings and vineyard lunches, opportunities to meet passionate winemakers, gallery and studio visits that showcase local artists, scenic cruises along Abel Tasman’s coastline, guided coastal and forest walks, and kayak options that explore pristine beaches and marine life. Several itineraries highlight regional features such as the Pelorus River, Te Waikoropupū Springs, Lake Rotoiti and the Moutere Hills. The program also visits notable creative hubs and artists’ studios, including stops that reference prominent local practitioners.

Each trip emphasizes storytelling and local knowledge: guides share regional history, winemaking practices and artistic context while navigating natural environments like beech forest, alpine slabs and coastal reserves. Wildlife encounters cited in tour descriptions include dolphins, fur seals and native bird species. Activities range from relaxed tastings to moderate hikes and multi-mode adventures combining boat, kayak and walking segments.

Information about each itinerary — from wine tours in Nelson and Marlborough to Abel Tasman Water & Walk and Alpine Splendour in Kahurangi — is presented so travelers can match interests, activity level and seasonal considerations. The offering appeals to guests seeking immersive regional experiences that combine culture, cuisine and wild landscapes.