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The Waipara Wine Experience

Discover the charms of the Waipara Valley on an all-inclusive, relaxed, wine‑soaked adventure through one of New Zealand’s most distinctive and diverse cool‑climate regions. With its warm, dry days, cool nights, limestone‑rich soils, and long, clear autumns, Waipara produces some of the country’s most acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and other aromatic varietals - and you’ll taste them right where they’re made.

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After a central Christchurch pickup, we head north on a scenic 50‑minute drive into wine country. Your day includes visits to three boutique, family‑owned vineyards - each with its own personality, story, and style. With over 20 wines to taste, you will sample a wide range of classic (and occasionally not‑so‑classic) varietals, enjoy a delicious individual platter for lunch, and soak up the relaxed charm that makes the Waipara Valley such a gem.

 

It’s an easygoing, good‑humoured day out with great wine, great views, and a guide who knows the region, and the wines, well.

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The Waipara Wine Experience can be booked as a shared or private tour starting from $169 per person. See pricing table here.

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We have a maximum of six guests.

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Private or Shared Tour?

Giles Tours began as a shared experience for couples and small groups, but over time more people started asking for private outings - so now you can choose what suits you best.

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A Shared Tour is the most cost‑effective option for 2–3 people and generally has the best availability. 

Happy to be at Terrace Edge

A Private Tour is ideal for groups of 3 or more, with some flexibility to tailor the day to suit your preferences. Perfect for cruise ship passengers arriving into Lyttelton as we can adjust timings to fit the ship's schedule.

The Wineries

You’ll visit three of these boutique, family‑owned vineyards. All are locally owned, proudly independent, and full of character. 

  • Pegasus Bay Winery — The region’s most iconic producer, famous for world‑class Pinot Noir and Riesling.

  • Torlesse Wines — Our usual lunch stop, with generous individual platters and a wide range of wines from four different sites.

  • Terrace Edge — NZ Organic Vineyard of the Year 2018, 2021, and 2025. Remarkable wines and a stunning setting.

  • Georges Road — Truly boutique, with handcrafted wines and simply incredible views.

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Important Information

  • Departure Point - Pick-up from your central Christchurch accommodation or pre‑arranged location between 10:00 and 10:30am. Lyttelton pick-up can be arranged - additional charge of $60 per group. 

  • Duration - Allow 5.5 to 6 hours, including lunch.

  • Return  - Return to the original pick-up point (unless otherwise arranged) at approximately 4:00pm. (Lyttelton 4.15pm)​

 

Inclusions

  • Wine tastings at three boutique vineyards

  • Individual seasonal lunch platter

  • All transport in premium MPV

  • Pickup and drop‑off

  • Knowledgeable local guide

  • A relaxed exploration of North Canterbury’s family‑owned wineries​

 

Conditions

  • Shared tours require a minimum of 2 guests to operate

  • Tours usually run Thursday to Monday, subject to availability

  • Lunch and all tastings are included unless specified

  • Wineries may change on the day due to circumstances beyond our control

  • 48‑hour cancellation policy applies

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