Excursion Wine & dine at the mission estate - the oldest winery in new zealand tour at Napier

Established in 1851 by the French Marist religious order, Mission Estate Winery is New Zealand's oldest winemaker and home to one of Hawke's Bay's finest restaurants. This tour for wine and food connoisseurs offers a true New Zealand gastronomy experience, with samples of some of the finest local wines and produce, in a charming and elegant setting.

Mission Estate

From the Port of Napier, drive with your driver-guide through the historic Art Deco area of downtown Napier to Mission Estate which is beautifully sited on a small hill overlooking the Heretaunga Plain. Housed in an elegantly restored historic seminary building with sweeping views of Napier, Mission Estate is the most visited winery in the country.

Tour of the Winery & Wine Tasting

Upon arrival, the Estate guide welcomes and directs you to a self-guided you on a historic tour of the elegantly restored seminary building and the adjoining chapel, with its high vaulted ceilings, arched windows and French doors. A visit to the cellar door provides an opportunity to try the extensive range of wines. Enjoy a wine tasting led by one of the wine-makers (subject to availability) where a flight of seven wines are available for you to sample. Listen as they divulge details of the wine making process that commenced back in 1851 by the French Marist religious order.

Four-Course Lunch, Free Time

Your Mission Estate experience is complemented with a four-course set menu luncheon, with a selection of wines matched to each seasonal dish, in their award-winning restaurant. Contemporary cuisine using only the freshest local produce is served. Afterwards, some free time is available for you to peruse the shop or to explore the gardens and soak up the ambience of the estate.

Then, begin the 30-minute drive back to the ship via the port suburb of Ahuriri.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Napier Art Deco district, Mission Estate, Ahuriri

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The order of sights visited may vary.