11 Day Ultimate Southern Wine and Food Odyssey Self Drive Wine Tour

Christchurch

Begin your Christchurch | South Island Great Wine Capital journey in Christchurch – the Heart of the South.

Christchurch is rightly named the ‘Garden City’ of New Zealand, due to its spectacular parks, gardens, and walkways. While, its big backyard offers some of New Zealand’s most spectacular seascapes, landscapes and mountain ranges.

Travelling from Christchurch City is a seamlessly experiences. Discover alpine hot pools, lush vineyards, amazing eco-tourism activities, extensive mountain and ski opportunities as well as charming townships – all within two hours drive.

Whatever your pleasure, Christchurch and its big backyard offer the great New Zealand experience.

For information on where to stay and activities while in Christchurch and Canterbury, visit www.christchurchnz.com and to see more of ChristChurch through photos and videos visit www.christchurch.org.nz/photosvideos/

Apex Car Rentals is the key sponsor for the International Best of Wine Tourism Awards. Visit their website to view rates and make a booking www.apexrentals.co.nz

Wining and Dining in the City

SOL Square and Poplar Lane (both off Lichfield Street) –take a leisurely stroll through this inner city network of lanes that give Christchurch an urban edge. Lining the historic lanes are funky and sophisticated internationally themed bars, including the Cleaners Only, a quirky hole in the wall bar, Kiwi style fish and chip shop, the Yellow Cross pizza restaurant with brew pub, as well as numerous other clubs and boutique shops.

The Terrace - overlooking the river, or as refuge with a hot drink on a winter's day, the iconic Terrace gives you plenty of choice, and the chance to say, yes, you've really been to Christchurch. Liquidity, Sticky Fingers, The Viaduct and Coyote's are among some of the bars and restaurants that cater with delicious meals during the day and legendary nightlife after dark.

Christchurch Casino - enjoy great food and drinks at the restaurants and bars. Visit the Diamond Bar with its exciting fusion of old and new with a white bar set alight by 3,500 shimmering crystal glass shards.

Curator's House Restaurant - overlooking the beautiful Botanic Gardens and Avon River, this centrally located restaurant offers the freshest of local produce prepared with a subtle Spanish influence.

Indochine – award winning restaurant combining South East Asian and French style cuisine with an environment that combines Asian mystery with European opulence.

The Octagon Live – enjoy a world class dining experience with a fusion of heritage, fine dining and music all within a beautifully restored stone church.

Belgium Beer Café Torenhof – offering a commitment to Belgian Beer and outstanding cuisine, relax in a 1920’s cafe atmosphere overlooking the Avon River and garden reserve.

Dux de Lux – masters of fine indoor and outdoor casual dining and award winning hand crafted beer. Adjoining the Art Centre, this iconic Christchurch restaurant serves the finest seafood and vegetarian fare and is often home to some of New Zealand’s top live music.

www.christchurchnz.com

Attractions

Take a sunrise flight in a hot air balloon. Travel high above the city and Canterbury Plains, with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and endless blue ocean – topped off with a champagne breakfast.

Experience indigenous and exotic animals by visiting Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. View the famous flightless kiwi bird in its natural habitat.

Immerse yourself in Maori Culture at Ko Tane – The Maori Experience. Learn about New Zealand’s native culture and participate in a powhiri (welcome), take in a Maori Performance, explore a historic village and indulge with a ‘Taste of New Zealand’ dinner.

Discover galleries, museums and heritage buildings on foot or from the comfort of the Christchurch historic tram. Check out the bustling art and craft market stalls at the Art Centre – complete with international food fair and street entertainment.

A day excursion to Akaroa is a picturesque 90 minute drive from Christchurch on Banks Peninsula. Akaroa is a charming French-inspired village cradled in the arms of an ancient volcano. Take in sweeping harbour views and see the outer bays from a hilltop vantage point. In the village itself, spend a leisurely day exploring boutique shops, an antique museum, galleries and gourmet eateries, or swim with the rare Hector's dolphin.

Play a round of golf at Clearwater, home of the NZ PGA Championship. Offering five tee positions, the 18-hole golf course is the centrepiece of Clearwater Resort.

Sample some of the many Canterbury delights at various local farmers’ markets, including Lyttelton Harbour and Riccarton House, all located within twenty minutes drive of Christchurch City.

Accommodation Suggestions

An extensive range of accommodation is available in Christchurch city to enjoy the very best of what is on offer. Here are some options to consider:

Crowne Plaza - www.ichotelsgroup.com

The Crowne Plaza Hotel overlooks Victoria Square and the Avon River. The hotel is physically linked to the Christchurch Convention Centre, adjacent to the Christchurch Casino, and only minutes from the central business district and all leading city attractions. Canterbury Tales is the signature restaurant with fresh ingredients, superb flavours, innovative presentation and attention to detail creating an exceptional dining experience.

Hotel Grand Chancellor - www.ghithotels.com

Hotel Grand Chancellor is one of Christchurch’s favourite hotels and is the tallest in the city offering fantastic views either over the mountains, Pacific Ocean or neighbouring Port Hills. With the central shopping precinct at your doorstep and a short stroll to cafes, restaurants and bars this location is hard to beat.

The Heritage Christchurch - www.heritagehotels.co.nz

The Heritage is situated in the heart of Cathedral Square. Formerly the Old Government Building, this magnificent historic building has been lovingly restored and complements the contemporary tower with many rooms and suites offering views over Christchurch and the majestic Southern Alps.

The Millennium Hotel - www.millenniumhotels.co.nz

The Millennium Hotel is also overlooking Cathedral Square and offers five star accommodation. As one of Christchurch’s superior hotels, the service and experience will not disappoint.

The George - www.thegeorge.com

The luxurious, boutique George Hotel is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalised stay and two award winning restaurants. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and Avon River, find a peaceful retreat just steps from Christchurch's cultural precinct.

Eat & Drink Experiences

SOL Square & Poplar Lane (both off Lichfield Street) – leisurely stroll through this inner city network of lanes which gives Christchurch an urban edge that belies its Garden City status. Lining the historic laneways are funky & sophisticated internationally themed bars including the Cleaners Only, a hole in the wall that is intensely quirky with a fascinating history, restaurants including a “Kiwiana” style fish & chip shop, the Yellow Cross pizza restaurant with brew pub, clubs and boutique shops.. Bikes hang off walls, cool jazz plays late into the evening at Fat Eddies – a club reflecting New York Jazz bars of the 1920’s with live entertainment on the large outdoor screen for an indoor-outdoor mix.

The "Strip" - Don't leave Christchurch without understanding what it means to dine on 'The Strip' - whether for lunch or dinner overlooking the river, or as refuge with a hot drink on a winter's day, the iconic "Strip" gives you plenty of choice, and the chance to say, yes, you've really been to Christchurch. Liquidity, Sticky Fingers, The Viaduct, Coyote's and others cater daily with delicious meals and after dark with legendary nightlife.

Christchurch Casino - try your lady luck in poker competitions, enjoy great food and drinks at the restaurants and bars. Why not experience the Diamond Bar with its exciting fusion of old and new with a white bar set alight by 3,500 shimmering crystal glass shards.

Curator's House Restaurant - overlooking the beautiful Botanic Gardens & Avon River, this centrally located restaurant offers the freshest of local produce prepared with a subtle Spanish influence.

Indochine – award winning restaurant combining South East Asian and French style cuisine with an environment offering a delightful combination of Asian mystery and European opulence.

The Octagon Live – enjoy a world class dining experience where you will enjoy a fusion of heritage, fine dining and music all within a beautifully restored stone church.

Belgium Beer Café Torenhof – offering a commitment to Belgian Beer and outstanding cuisine relax and enjoy a 1920’s cafe atmosphere overlooking the Avon River and garden reserve.

www.christchurchnz.com

Attractions

Visitors can spend many days discovering the numerous sights and activities in the Garden City. There is plenty to see and do. Don’t miss out on:

A sunrise flight in a hot air balloon high above the city, floating over the Canterbury Plains, with views of the breathtaking Southern Alps and the endless blue of the ocean, topped off with a champagne breakfast.

Experiencing firsthand what life is like on the coldest place on earth at the Christchurch’s International Antarctic Centre. Slide down an icy slope, shelter in an ice cave and endure minus 18 degree Celsius temperatures. Get the blood pumping after the chilling encounter and climb aboard The Hagglund - buckle up tight as this amphibious vehicle test its capabilities across hills and through 3 metres deep pools of water. Get up close and observe Little Blue Penguins in the NZ Penguin Encounter, New Zealand’s first combined indoor/outdoor penguin viewing area.

Checking out the range of New Zealand wildlife - see, feed indigenous and exotic animals by visiting Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. View the famous flightless kiwi bird in its’ natural habitat. While you’re here, immerse yourself in Maori Culture at Ko Tane – The Maori Experience. Learn about New Zealand’s native culture as you and your family participate in a powhiri (welcome), experience a Maori Performance, explore a historic village and indulge with a Taste of New Zealand dinner.

Exploring the artistic and cultural heart of Christchurch in the city’s stunning Cultural Precinct. Discover galleries, museums and heritage buildings on foot or from the comfort of the Christchurch historic tram. Check out the bustling art and craft market stalls at the Art Centre – complete with international food fair and street entertainment.

Boarding Black Cat Cruises in the historic township of Lyttelton and unwind in the sea air while you get whisked away to experience the extensive local marine life including the world’s smallest and rarest marine dolphin – the Hector’s dolphins. For a more unique experience, get up close and swim with rare Hector’s dolphins in the beautiful sheltered setting of Akaroa Harbour on Banks Peninsula.

Playing a round of golf at Clearwater, home of the NZ PGA Championship. Offering five tee positions, the 18-hole golf course is the centrepiece of Clearwater Resort.

Sampling the many Canterbury delights at various local farmers’ markets including Lyttelton Harbour and Riccarton House, all located within twenty minutes drive of Christchurch City.

Accommodation Suggestions

An exciting range of accommodation is available in Christchurch city so please stay for as long as you wish to enjoy the very best of what the city has to offer. Here are some options to consider:

Crowne Plaza - www.ichotelsgroup.com

The Crowne Plaza Hotel overlooks Victoria Square and the Avon River. The hotel is physically linked to the Christchurch Convention Centre and adjacent to the Christchurch Casino, and only minutes from the central business district and all leading city attractions. Canterbury Tales is the signature restaurant with fresh ingredients, superb flavours, innovative presentation and attention to detail combined to create an exceptional dining experience.

Hotel Grand Chancellor - www.ghithotels.com

The Heritage Christchurch - www.heritagehotels.co.nz

The Millennium Hotel - www.millenniumhotels.co.nz

The Millennium Hotel is also overlooking Cathedral Square and offers five star accommodation. As one of Christchurch’s superior hotels you will not be disappointed with the service and experience you will receive.

The George - www.thegeorge.com

The George Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a personalised stay and attentive staff as well as two award winning restaurants 50 on Park and Pescatore. Located in the heart of Christchurch overlooking the picturesque Hagley Park and Avon River you will find a peaceful retreat just steps from Christchurch's cultural precinct and key attractions. Impeccable service in an intimate ambience is guaranteed at The George, the only Christchurch hotel with a one-to-one staff to guest ratio.

Day 1 - Christchurch to Kaikoura

Kaikoura

Collect your Apex Car Rental. Take a two and a half hour drive north of Christchurch via Waipara Valley to the Kaikoura District. Rich in marine life, the name Kaikoura stems from the Maori translation, Kai – food, koura – crayfish. Kaikoura is spectacularly located between the Pacific Ocean and the tallest mountains on the east coast of New Zealand – giving a beautiful backdrop of scenery from every direction.

Kaikoura is the leading eco-tourism destination in the country and its coastal waters are home to an array of marine mammals and birdlife. The mighty sperm whales can be spotted on a daily basis and share their habitat with dusky dolphins, fur seals and many species of albatross. There is also plenty of on land activities, from quad biking to horse-trekking to coastal walks and – for the more adventurous – sky diving.

With the ocean on its doorstep, it’s not surprising to discover that Kaikoura is the perfect place to sample some of New Zealand’s best seafood, including the local speciality – crayfish. Enjoy the ambience of restaurants with spectacular ocean and mountain views where you can sample local produce and wines and discover the stories behind them. Follow the recommendations of the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail by visiting the Green Dolphin Restaurant & Bar, White Morph Restaurant, Café Encounter or the Pier Hotel.

www.foodandwinetrail.co.nz

Kaikoura Winery - www.kaikourawinery.co.nz

Kaikoura Winery is located on a limestone cliff offering amazing ocean and mountain views. Visit the unique underground cellar, enjoy winery tours and tastings, and finish off your day with a coffee in the café.

Springbank Estate – www.springbankestate.com

Springbank Estate is nestled on an old stony river terrace situated at the foot of the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges. You can choose from six varietals including the Springbank speciality - Breidecker.

Accommodation – www.kaikoura.co.nz

For a small district, there is an excellent range of accommodation options. You may prefer a location close to the town, an idyllic countryside setting or a stunning coastal location. The range of camp grounds, B&Bs, motels, self-catering apartments, backpackers and luxury accommodation provides cater to all needs and budgets.

Day 2 and 3 - Kaikoura to Blenheim

Continuing north for one and a half hours along wild and beautiful coastline before driving inland to the sweeping hills and valleys of Marlborough. Famous for its high sunshine hours and unspoilt environment, the region it blessed with conditions that produce wines and produce with the finest of flavours. The capital of Marlborough, Blenheim, offers a range of accommodation, including: Copthorne Hotel, Chateau Marlborough and Heartland Hotel. Visitors can also stay out of town on the local wineries, such as iVilla Maria and Vintners Retreat.

There is an extensive wine trail that can easily fill several days with delightful food and wine in a paradise setting. Sample at the cellar door, or match with regional flavours in the vineyard cafes and restaurants.

The dry, moderate climate gives near perfect growing conditions that help to create intense varietal characters in the grapes. With an enviable international reputation for producing some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blancs, Marlborough’s cool, long-ripening season also produces superb aromatics such as Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris, Chardonnay style Methode Traditionelle, and intense reds – Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Wineries

Villa Maria Winery - www.villamaria.co.nz

New Zealand’s most awarded winery welcomes wine tasting daily at their cellar door and winery tours are as available (by appointment only). Founded in 1961 by its current owner and Managing Director Sir George Fistonich, Villa Maria Estate is seen as an icon in the New Zealand wine industry.

Cloudy Bay Winery - www.cloudybay.co.nz

In the centre of Marlborough and with a well established name, Cloudy Bay and its well-informed staff welcomes visitors looking for tastings and sales. The winemaking team are consistently exploring new styles which result in limited release wines. The winery takes its name from the bay at the eastern extremity of the Wairau Valley, named Cloudy Bay by Captain Cook on his voyage to New Zealand in 1770.

Spy Valley Winery - www.spyvalleywine.co.nz

One of Marlborough’s leading wineries, Spy Valley is family owned and produces ten varieties of grapes over 380 acres of estate vineyards. It is a modern winemaking facility with a passion for excellence that consistently produces globally acclaimed wines. Estate-grown olive oil is also for sale at the cellar door.

Yealands Estate - www.yealands.com

A classic example of a family owned and run vineyard and winery where a belief in the land is important. The certified carbon zero winery has won numerous environmental awards and produces top wines.

Day 4 - Blenheim to Nelson

The one and a half hour drive from Marlborough to the city of Nelson takes you through extensive wine country before winding through hills and valleys and along coastal roads with views across Tasman Bay to the Tasman Mountains. Nelson is a blend of arts and crafts, boutique wines and naturally brewed beer, gourmet seafood, cafes and chic restaurants – along with diverse beauty. Nelson accommodation includes the Rutherford Hotel, Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco and Trailways Hotel.

Nelson features two distinct wine regions with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir its premium varietals. It also produces high quality Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. The gravel threaded Moutere Hills produce wines with richness and texture, while the stony soils of the Waimea Plains provide a great terroir. There are wine trails for every taste which can be combined with excursions to Abel Tasman National Park – famed for its kayaking and stunning walks.

Wineries

Neudorf Vineyards - www.neudorf.co.nz

Situated in the upper Moutere Valley of Nelson, it was established in 1978 and is credited with producing one of New Zealand's best Chardonnays. It also boasts international recognition for its quality Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. Neudorf is an interesting winery to visit, with its welcoming cellar door, secluded location, outdoor sculpture and proximity to other rural attractions.

Waimea Estates - www.waimeaestates.co.nz

Since 1997, Waimea Estates has been creating award-winning wines. At ‘Cafe in the Vineyard’, guests can sample and purchase Waimea wines and enjoy lunch from the seasonal menu featuring fresh Nelson-sourced produce.

Anchorage Wines - www.anchoragewines.co.nz

A belief exists that the rich fertile soils surrounding the Motueka township, its balmy sea breezes and consistently high sunshine hours, make this location the ideal climate to craft aromatic wines. Grapes from the neighbouring Moutere vineyards add a further dimension to their classic aromatic varietals.

Day 5 – Nelson to Hanmer Springs

Head south on a five hour drive through hinterland, mountain valleys, detours to stunning lakes and finally over the Lewis Pass to the alpine spa village of Hanmer Springs. Breathe in the mountain air, relax in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa or get active with jet boat thrills, river rafting or even a bungy jump. There are a number of accommodation options available, including: the Heritage, Select Braemar Lodge or Fontainebleau Bed and Breakfast.

Day 6 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

Continue south to Christchurch via Waipara Valley. Christchurch is only 90 minutes drive, but allow a full day to enjoy a delicious lunch at a café or restaurant in the Waipara Valley.

Waipara Valley

Waipara Valley in North Canterbury is one of New Zealand’s most award winning wine regions and only a 45 minute drive north from Christchurch. Grapes were first planted in the early 1980’s and vineyards can be easily visited by car or a choice of tours that include gourmet food and wine, including Taste Canterbury – a personal tour by award-winning food and travel writer Mavis Airey.

Today there are 11 well-established wineries producing a range of varietals, including: Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This narrow valley offers ideal conditions for growing premium quality grapes. The combination of elevated heat summation, well-drained soils and protection from cool easterly wind, produces full ripeness in both red and white grapes. The region is currently producing in excess of 200,000 cases of wine every year. Many cellar doors are open to the public for tastings and fine local cuisine can easily be found at selected cafes and restaurants.

The North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail showcases the incredible produce and passionate people of this rural region.

www.foodandwinetrail.co.nz

Wineries

Pegasus Bay Winery & Restaurant - www.pegasusbay.com

The Donaldson family have been involved in wine since the early 1970s and were pioneers of local grape growing and wine making in the region. They produce award winning wines and their reserve wines are produced only in selected vintages.

Pegasus Bay is an accredited member of the NZWG sustainable viticulture programme and the owners are firm believers in using natural methods to combat pests and diseases as opposed to using pesticides and herbicides. Lunch at the restaurant is highly recommended.

Camshorn Vineyard - www.waiparawine.co.nz/wineries/camshorn

The vineyard was originally a Suffolk sheep farm and features north and south facing rows, created using laser lights. A variety of clay and gravel soils, combined with a sun-trap climate, creates an environment that produces rich, aromatic wines with a variety of flavours and textures. The clay soils cover 65 per cent of the un-irrigated vineyard – which increases the quality. The first wines were launched in 2005 and include Pinot Noir and Riesling varietals.

Greystone Wines - www.greystonewines.co.nz

With amazing views of the Waipara Valley, Greystone Wines has an outstanding reputation for quality wines. The 2009 Greystone Pinot Gris has won the champion's trophy in its class at the New Zealand International Wine Show. A welcoming experience is provided by the family, who invite guests to taste the wines and discover their local secrets.

Mountford Estate - www.mountfordvineyard.co.nz

Featuring some of the highest and steepest vineyards to be found in the Waipara Valley, Mountford Estate was established in 1991. The vineyard was planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines and 2008 saw a further four hectares of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling vines planted, increasing the vineyard to ten hectares. Wine tastings are by appointment.

Day 7 – Christchurch to Aoraki/Mt Cook

Collect your Apex Car Rental and head south west from Christchurch through quaint countryside to a selection of vineyards and restaurants just 20 minutes away.

Wineries

Rossendale Restaurant and Winery - www.rossendale.co.nz

It is an excellent venue with a fuse of wines and high quality beef reared on the Rossendale farm.

Melton Estate – www.meltonestate.co.nz

Melton Estate is a boutique vineyard producing award winning wines. Their wines are served at their vineyard cafe and are available directly from their Cellar Door.

Lone Goat Vineyard - www.lonegoat.co.nz

Lone Goat’s name is inspired by the vineyard’s sole inhabitant and guardian of the vines - Ella the goat. The vineyard on Burnham School Road, established by the Giesen Brothers, has been producing outstanding wine for nearly 30 years. This tradition has been continued by Lone Goat Vineyard, with their first wine, the Botrytis Selection 2007, winning the Champion Sweet Wine Trophy at the 2008 New Zealand International Wine Show.

Tresillian Vineyard - www.tresillian.co.nz

The Tresillian vineyard is situated on a flat, sheltered site where the first Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir vines were planted in 2001. A high standard of viticulture management is practiced with emphasis on sustainable winegrowing.

Continue south over the flat Canterbury Plains via the agricultural town of Ashburton. Feel the pulse of the heartland while travelling inland to Geraldine, a beautiful village with cafes, art and crafts prior to driving inland to the Mt Cook/Mackenzie region. Pass through Tekapo, home to the Church of the Good Shepherd – one of the most beautiful churches in the world - and pass the breathtakingly beautiful turquoise Lake Tekapo.

One and a half hours further is the village of Mount Cook, with dazzling views of Australasia’s tallest mountain – Aoraki/Mt Cook. When it comes to hiking and sightseeing in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, there is something for everyone, including: a landscape of glaciers, mountain streams, kayaking amongst icebergs and glacial lakes. Accommodation is available at the Hermitage Hotel.

Day 8 and 9 – Aoraki/Mt Cook to Central Otago

Travel four hours south through alpine scenery and over the Lindis Pass to the Central Otago wine region. Queenstown and Cromwell are delightful towns with various attractions, scenery and wine.

Attractions

Affectionately called ‘Central’, Central Otago is New Zealand’s most inland region, located in the southern half of the South Island.

Central Otago’s mountain and valley landscape, inland location and semi-arid climate create distinctive seasons. Taste award winning wines, try curling year round, play a round of golf at one of the 11 golf courses, cruise the Clutha River, visit quaint gold mining towns or just relax at one of the many boutique accommodations.

Central Otago is a place to relax, indulge and rejuvenate. The local people have a strong sense of “Love of Place” and are proud to share it with visitors.

www.centralotagonz.com

Accommodation Suggestions

A range of accommodation is available in Cromwell from boutique Bed and Breakfast to hotels, and a large range of quality motels.

Aoturoa Luxury Villa – www.aoturoa.co.nz

Situated between Cromwell and Lake Wanaka, Aoturoa Luxury Villa is a five star boutique lodge on the banks of the Clutha River. With 360-degree mountain views and barely a building in sight, the feeling of seclusion and remoteness is absolute – yet it is just a 15 minute drive to Lake Wanaka and 20 minute drive to the surrounding wine growing region.

Pisa Range Lake Resort – www.pisarangelakeresort.co.nz

Located on the shores of Lake Dunstan, Pisa Range Lake Resort offers 5-star accommodation, with bedroom villas. The boat style villas are built over a newly constructed marina and guest can easily access the lake. Soak in the amazing views of the region as you sit on the deck with a Central Otago world class wine in hand.

Golden Gate Lodge – www.goldengate.co.nz

Discover the golden opportunities of Central Otago and the Southern Lakes as guest of Cromwell’s 3+ star Golden Gate Lodge. This 47 studio room property is ideally located for guests to base themselves and explore the wider region.

Orchard House – www.orchardhouse.co.nz

Set in a secluded and unique orchard setting, Orchard House is where you can experience the hospitality and the delights of the Central Otago region. Experience summer fruits, autumn colours, snow covered mountains and the spectacular orchard blossom in spring.

Wineries

Spend time in Central Otago’s largest wine-growing sub-region, the Cromwell Basin, and enjoy wineries at Bannockburn in the south, and Lowburn, Wanaka Road and Bendigo to the north. The wine region is surrounded by mountains rising to over 2000m, with vines set amongst spectacular alpine scenery. The vineyards are also the highest in New Zealand, located between 200 and 400 metres above sea level with the most famous being Pinot Noir.

The Big Picture – www.bigpicturewine.com

The Big Picture is the ‘essential wine adventure’ located in Cromwell. It will take you on a journey of discovery throughthe region, meeting the winemakers and viewing the stunning scenery which makes Central Otago so geographically unique. Enjoy the awe inspiring Aroma Room and the interactive wine film and tasting in the auditorium.

Mt Difficulty Winery - www.mtdifficulty.co.nz

The founding vineyards were established in 1992; Mt Difficulty owns some of the oldest vineyards and is one of the most respected wineries in the Central Otago region. Situated in Bannockburn, a unique and rare area of extremes, Mt Difficulty has harnessed the once brutal terrain to produce premium wines at the forefront of Central Otago's wine production. Lunch in their acclaimed restaurant is highly recommended.

Quartz Reef Winery- www.quartzreef.co.nz

Named after New Zealand’s largest quartz deposit that lies beneath the wineries principal vineyards at Bendigo Station, Quartz Reef has become the vessel for what winemaker Rudi Bauer calls - his search to make wines that exhibit “a symphony of flavours that capture attention and entertain so that you forget everything else”. Split between two vineyards, Quartz Reef has 30 hectares cultivated within the Central Otago sub-region of Bendigo.

Carrick Vineyard – www.carrick.co.nz

Situated in Bannockburn overlooking the Bannockburn Inlet of Lake Dunstan, Carrick Vineyard was first planted in 1994. As a member of the sustainable Winegrowing Group, the philosophy of Carrick is one of minimal intervention in the vineyard and a commitment to environmentally sound land management practices.

Felton Road Vineyard – www.feltonroad.com

A small, artisan producer of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling, the vineyard was established in 1991. Investing heavily in meticulous biodynamic viticulture practices, Felton Road has quickly gained a reputation as one of New Zealand’s leading premium wine producers. The three vineyards are all located in Central Otago’s Bannockburn sub-region.

Olssen’s – www.olssens.co.nz

Family owned and operated, this ten hectare vineyard has won numerous gold medals, five star ratings and trophies both in New Zealand and Australia. This sheltered vineyard at the end of Felton Road with its park-like setting and stunning views is more than a wine producer. Considerable landscaping has created a rural haven in the rugged, stark hills of the Bannockburn region.

Day 10 – Central Otago to Dunedin

The drive to Dunedin is approximately four hours and passes through rugged scenery along the Clutha River. Dunedin, home to New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle, is situated between a harbour and ocean beaches. Make sure to participate at the Speight’s Brewery Tours and Cadbury World – Chocolate Factory tour. Accommodation includes Scenic Hotel Dunedin City, Mercure Hotel Dunedin and Larnach Castle Lodge.

Wineries

Take a short detour into Clyde and follow the Earnscleugh and Alexandra Trail to vineyards nestled among rugged rock and historic landmarks.

Black Ridge – www.blackridge.co.nz

A gracious winery set in the hills overlooking Alexandra in stunning surroundings. Black Ridge wines are made exclusively from grapes grown in their vineyard. The terroir is a unique contributor to the uniqueness of Black Ridge.

Two Paddocks – www.twopaddocks.com

A small family business that is entirely dedicated to making great wine. Sam Neill (actor) started the winery in 1993 with friend Roger Donaldson (Director) by planting next door, hence the name Two Paddocks. The original vineyard has now been augmented by two other small, superbly sited ones in the Alexandra area. Alex Paddocks is a 7-acre vineyard on a beautiful terrace above the Earnscleugh valley.

Day 11 – Dunedin to Christchurch

Depart Dunedin for a six hour drive north to Christchurch via wild and beautiful coastline featuring sandy beaches, boulders, the historic town of Oamaru, city of Timaru with its numerous cafes, bars and restaurants before crossing the fertile Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.