8-Day The North's Wine, Brews & Gourmet Tasting Trail

Get ready to discover the culinary delights of Aotearoa New Zealand's lower North Island on this 8-day self-drive itinerary. In partnership with Warner Bros' and Mojang Studios to celebrate the release of "A Minecraft Movie", New Zealand has created a world-first destination DLC (downloadable content) for Minecraft. But why stop at playing in-game when you can experience real-world activities like sipping a glass of crisp Pinot Noir, visiting a native bird sanctuary and cycling between world-class vineyards.

Begin your adventure in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, New Zealand's vibrant capital city celebrated for its rich culture and well-established food scene. Surrounded by rolling hills and an expansive harbour, this compact city packs a punch when it comes to culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

Step outside and dive into Wellington's famous hospitality scene, where creative chefs and artisans showcase the best of local produce. Whether you're in the mood for contemporary inner-city dining at Highwater Eatery or a low-key meal at the Maori and Pacifica-owned Karaka Cafe, there's something to satisfy every craving.

The craft beer scene is equally impressive, with small breweries offering everything from bold IPAs to rich, dark stouts. A brewery tour is a must - expert guides will take you behind the scenes and let you sample a variety of unique, locally brewed flavours.

Beyond the food and drink, Wellington is a city of creativity. Explore the country's national museum to uncover Maori history and New Zealand's cultural heritage or wander up and down bohemian Cuba Street. In the evening, catch a live performance at one of the city's many theatres, or simply take a waterfront stroll as the city lights reflect on the harbour.

A trip to Wellington wouldn't be complete without a ride on the historic, bright red Cable Car. Stop at the top and soak up the stunning panoramic views over the city before strolling back down through Wellington's Botanic Garden ki Paekaka.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Just a short scenic drive north of Wellington is the Kapiti Coast, a hidden gem known for its golden beaches, rugged walking trails, and laid-back coastal charm. You'll settle in for the night at in Paraparaumu.

A must-do in the region is visiting Kapiti Island, one of New Zealand's most important nature reserves. Only accessible by boat, the island is a sanctuary for native bird species, offering an opportunity to see rare wildlife up close. The walking trails lead you through lush native bush, and if you're up for the challenge, the summit hike rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

After a day of exploring, indulge in the region's culinary delights. The Kapiti Coast is known for producing artisanal food and beverages from award-winning cheeses and delicious sweet treats to local breweries with on-site beer gardens and quality coffee roasteries.

The Kapiti Coast is famous for its sunsets. Head to the beach in the early evening and watch as the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and gold - a truly magical way to end the day.

Stay 1 night on the Kapiti Coast

From the Kapiti Coast, your journey moves eastward to Napier, a city known for its Art Deco architecture, abundance of wineries and freshly grown produce.

A guided Art Deco walking tour is a fantastic way to uncover Napier's unique past. Rebuilt in the 1930s following a devastating earthquake, the city embraces its heritage with pastel-coloured facades, intricate geometric designs and vintage charm. As you stroll through its streets, you might feel as if you've stepped into a different era.

But Napier isn't just about its architecture - it's also a paradise for food and wine lovers.

Some of the country's best wineries are nestled in the surrounding countryside. Visit the prestigious Craggy Range or Black Barn Vineyards to sample expertly crafted Sauvignon Blancs and robust Merlots, all while soaking in the rolling vineyard views. The local farmer's markets are another highlight, offering everything from fresh stone fruits and gourmet cheeses to artisan chocolates.

Napier is a fantastic city to explore by bike. Rent a bicycle and cruise along the coastal trails or take a relaxed ride between vineyards, stopping for tastings along the way - or to hike Te Mata peak, a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.

You'll spend two nights in a hotel ideally located for both city exploration and vineyard hopping before continuing your journey.

Stay 2 nights in Napier.

Martinborough is a small historic village packed with colonial charm and a global reputation for its exceptional Pinot Noir.

Martinborough is best explored at a leisurely pace, with many wineries located within a short cycling distance of each other. Renting a bike and meandering through the countryside, stopping at wineries such as Palliser Estate and Tirohana Estate is a quintessential experience in the region. Here, expert winemakers share their passion for crafting elegant, cool-climate wines, offering guided tastings that deepen your appreciation for the region's viticulture.

In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of the village's highly regarded restaurants. Many menus focus on farm-to-table dining, featuring locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavours of the region. If the weather allows, dine al fresco under the stars, sipping a glass of wine as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Stay 2 nights Martinborough

Make your way back to Wellington airport to return your hire car and depart home or continue your journey to explore more of what New Zealand has to offer.