Soar above Queenstown for an unforgettable dining experience, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the sweeping lake and mountain vistas as the town glows below.

New Zealand: North & South Island

Our New Zealand journey is a marriage of heart and soul, adventure and culture—and tannins. Join us to track down some of the world’s best wines by foot, by bike and by helicopter.

Wine & Adventure

Experience the best of New Zealand with Adelsheim Vineyard

New Dates to be Announced

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9 Days, 8 Nights

Auckland, Hawke's Bay, Martinborough, Queenstown

Price from

$10,000

per person, based on double occupancy

Speak with an adventure expert

+1 (855) 219-8018

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New dates for our New Zealand adventure will be announced soon.
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You’re half a world away and the wine is flowing. Endless, sun-filled skies cast a golden glow over rows of vines and rugged New Zealand peaks. You coast by bicycle in short-sleeves, stopping at artisanal wineries to savor award-winning wines all the way to the coast. Then, you soar in a private helicopter to picnic in scenery plucked from the imagination of J.R.R. Tolkien. All your food is fresh and succulent and seasonal—oysters harvested from the bay, lamb or venison sourced from the rugged highlands. This is New Zealand at its most mesmerizing, delicious and unforgettable.

On this adventure, we’ll tap into a world of fantastic wine and connect with the people who make it. It’s also about getting into incredible scenery and experiencing one of the world’s most fascinating cultures. Any visitor to New Zealand tends to consider it the trip of a lifetime—we’ll go beyond that. We dine with leading vintners, explore Maori culture and experience the country’s very best. Join us—you’ll talk about this one for the rest of your life.

New Zealand 2019_Illustrated map highlighting wine and travel destinations across New Zealand, featuring Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, and Queenstown, with drawings of wine, cheese, lakes, and cyclists exploring scenic landscapes.

Travel with Us

A Toast to New Zealand

Marvel at the world’s most astonishing scenery—by bike, helicopter, gondola and foot—then rejuvenate in perfectly situated boutique hotels

Wine & Culture

Savor New Zealand’s award-winning varietals at epic wineries, dine with local vintners, connect with Maori culture

Local Connections

Join Adelsheim winemaker Gina Hennen, and experience New Zealand alongside a passionate winemaker and other Adelsheim wine-lovers like you

A Uniquely Adelsheim Experience

New Zealand 2020_Group of travelers relaxing and chatting in a stylish living room with rustic décor, leather and white sofas, and a warm, inviting atmosphere — capturing the spirit of connection on a Modern Adventure experience in New Zealand.

New Zealand gives us the opportunity to explore the wine community and its connections to Oregon. Join us for exclusive, private tastings at some of the country’s best spots.

New Zealand 2019_Aerial perspective from inside a helicopter cockpit flying above dramatic rugged mountains at golden hour, showcasing New Zealand’s alpine landscape.
New Zealand 2025_Breathtaking view from Roys Peak overlooking Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, showcasing New Zealand’s stunning alpine landscapes and rugged mountain scenery.

“New Zealand is not a small country, but a large village.” – Peter Jackson

Adelsheim Vineyard produces world-class wines with an optimistic spirit and steadfast stewardship of the land. As a founding winery of the Willamette Valley and Chehalem Mountains’ first winery, Adelsheim has played an instrumental role in nearly every aspect of the Oregon wine story. Travel with us, and be a part of ours.

Day by Day

*On rare occasions, this itinerary may change.

Day 1

Welcome to New Zealand! On this arrival day, we set up for our start in Auckland, the country’s buzzing center of art, fashion, food and—of course—wine. Known as the “City of Sails,” the city’s volcanic peninsula extends between two harbors, making it a bucket-list destination for anyone who enjoys the water. After meeting up with Gina and the rest of the group, we check into our harbor-front hotel and then have a leisurely evening on our own to get excited for our adventure ahead.

New Zealand 2019_View of Auckland’s skyline across the harbor, featuring sailboats on the water and the iconic Sky Tower rising above the cityscape.

Day 1 Highlights

  • New Zealand 2019_Māori-inspired black and gold circular logo featuring a stylized geometric bird or cultural symbol within a textured circle. Meet and greet at hotel
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Hotel Grand Windsor in Auckland

Day 2

This morning, we delve deep into the area’s rich Maori culture. New Zealand’s indigenous peoples have traditions spanning centuries, from their unique language to folklore and performing arts. Guided by a Maori local, we’ll discover Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) and nearby Waitakere Ranges, with its winding paths, towering kauri trees and views of black sand beaches, through their eyes. After working up our appetite and learning about ancient traditions, we’ll experience one with a local Maori lunch. 

We take a short flight to Hawke’s Bay on the east coast and set up in boutique cottages where rows of sun-kissed vines line the hillside at Craggy Range Winery. Dinner tonight is a private tasting menu prepared by their head chef and paired with Adelsheim wines. The wine, and the stories from today, will flow into the night!

New Zealand 2020_Group dining experience featuring beautifully plated local dishes, fine wine, and candlelight ambiance — guests enjoying a communal meal highlighting New Zealand’s vibrant culinary scene with Modern Adventure.

Day 2 Highlights

  • Sicily and Naples 2019_Artistic sketch of a tour guide wearing a hat and speaking into a microphone, representing storytelling, culture, and guided adventures across southern Italy. Tour Auckland with Maori local
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn airplane flying in front of a textured golden circle. Flight to Hawke’s Bay
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Private dinner at Craggy Range
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Craggy Range in Hawke’s Bay

Day 3

The only thing better than exploring New Zealand’s brilliant mountain scenery is doing it with wine. Our first stop is Moana Park, known for its old-world approach to natural, easily drinkable wines.

Then we bicycle through 12km (7.4 miles) of limestone trails alongside the Tutaekuri River towards Church Road Winery, where we’ll sample pre-release wines in their barrel halls and caves—or opt for a van ride to Silky Oak Chocolate for a little palate-cleanser. Our last stop is a two-course lunch at Mission Estate, New Zealand’s oldest winery. Our wine-focused adventure wouldn’t be possible without their story. The evening is open to exploration. Enjoy the views, dine at Craggy Range or one of many nearby wineries.

New Zealand 2019_Cyclist riding along a dirt path between rows of green vineyards under a bright blue sky with rolling hills in the distance.

Day 3 Highlights

  • Minimalist black bicycle illustration with gold accents on the wheels, seat, and handlebars, symbolizing cycling adventures. Bicycle tour to local wineries
  • Minimalist illustration of a wine glass filled with golden wine beside a block of cheese and knife on a board, symbolizing wine tasting and local cuisine. Lunch and wine pairing at Mission State Winery
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Craggy Range in Hawke’s Bay

Day 4

Today we continue south with a drive to Martinborough past sprawling green farmland and mountain peaks looming on the horizon. The Martinborough Wine Region’s cool climate and balanced soil are perfect for Pinots and Chardonnays, much like Oregon’s Willamette Valley. We’ll get our first taste over lunch at Poppie’s, where they take a simple, hand-crafted approach to winemaking paired with decadent, seasonal tasting platters.

The afternoon is on our own to explore the town, beloved by New Zealanders as a fun holiday destination and wine lovers for its premium spot nestled in this unique wine country. We’ll meet back up for a fresh, locally sourced dinner at our hotel’s restaurant, Union Square. Paired with some local wine, it’s the perfect way to celebrate our journey so far!

New Zealand 2019_Vineyard stretching toward the golden Cragg Range mountains under a clear blue sky in Hawke’s Bay wine country.

Day 4 Highlights

  • Sicily and Naples 2019_ Hand-drawn illustration of a modern travel van symbolizing road trips through the scenic routes of Sicily and Naples. Transfer to Martinborough
  • Sicily and Naples 2019_ Illustration of an Italian pasta dish on a plate with a spoon, reflecting the rich cuisine of southern Italy. Lunch at Poppie’s Martinborough
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Dinner at Union Square
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Martinborough Hotel in Martinborough

Day 5

We continue to savor the Martinborough region today with tastings at more premiere wineries. First up is Ata Rangi. Meaning “Dawn Sky” or “New Beginning,” this family-run winery is dedicated to nurturing the land for future generations. Famed winemaker Helen Masters will enlighten us about their approach and story. Next is a private tasting at Big Sky Wines, started by a local husband and wife with a deep winemaking history and passion for French wines. We end our afternoon at Moy Hall, with a casual and delicious seasonal lunch among the vines. The rest of the day is on our own to explore more of Martinborough, relax at the hotel or even seek out some more wine!

New Zealand 2019_Group toasting with glasses of white wine over a rustic table filled with artisanal cheese and charcuterie.

Day 5 Highlights

  • Sicily and Naples 2019_ Hand-drawn vineyard scene with grapevines and distant hills, capturing the wine culture of Sicily and Naples. Tour and tasting Ata Rangi
  • New Zealand 2019_Hand-drawn illustration of a wine glass filled with golden wine, symbolizing elegant tastings and vineyard experiences. Private tasting at Big Sky Wines
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Lunch at Moy Hall
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Martinborough Hotel in Martinborough

Day 6

We bid farewell to our beautiful Martinborough cottage today. After a quick flight to New Zealand’s South Island—known for its fjords, rugged mountains and sprawling skies—our next stop is Queenstown, the country’s adventure capital. Fittingly, our first day here allows us to choose our own: Explore town at your leisure with stunning scenery of Lake Wakatipu and the aptly named Remarkables mountains; take in a bird’s eye view from the Skyline Gondola overlooking a panorama of snow-capped peaks and the vast lake from above; or visit historic Arrowtown, hot-bed of New Zealand’s gold rush and mining history.

Dinner’s a special treat, with a feast of local meats (venison, rabbit, lamb, squid, oysters) at Boardwalk, situated on the iconic waterfront. We’ll eat well here, and toast the start of our final New Zealand stop.

New Zealand 2020_Aerial view of Queenstown with calm lake waters, snow-capped mountains, and pastel dawn light creating a peaceful alpine scene.

Day 6 Highlights

  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn airplane flying in front of a textured golden circle. Flight to Queenstown
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn pair of binoculars with a strap. Optional afternoon adventure
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Dinner at Boardwalk
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Hotel St Moritz in Queenstown

Day 7

We rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime experience—to Middle Earth and back again! Riding our private helicopters, we hover close to rolling high-country fields and rugged peaks below us. We’ll land for a stunner one-hour hike through the Nevis Valley. Originally used as a trail system by the Maori people, European settlers began farming the area in the later 1800s and word spread about the gold in the pristine rocky rivers fed by the surrounding mountain ranges. Because of the valley’s remoteness, many of the old gold-miner huts still remain. So, we cap our hike with a gourmet-platter lunch at one of rustic picturesque huts dotting the winding riverside. After we soak in the views one last time, our helicopters fly us up and over the dramatic gorge and back to Queenstown. We’ll have the rest of the day on our own.

New Zealand 2019_A breathtaking view of Earnslaw Burn near Glenorchy, featuring cascading waterfalls, glacial cliffs, and a helicopter landing beside a winding alpine river under a clear blue sky.

Day 7 Highlights

  • Hand-drawn gold illustration of a helicopter flying above water, with reflective brush-style lines below in a minimal artistic style. Private helicopter tour
  • Illustrated hiking boot MOAD icon representing outdoor trekking and adventure Hike through the Nevis Valley
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Gourmet lunch at gold-miner hut
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Hotel St Moritz in Queenstown

Day 8

We begin today with a scenic drive through central Otago and Kawarau Gorge, where soaring trees line rocky shores and high bridges span over cerulean flowing rivers. We arrive at Burn Cottage for a behind-the-scenes tasting on this sprawling, family-run estate. Next, we head to nearby Valli to meet up with winemaker—and native Oregonian—Jen Parr to learn about her, the vineyard and the impact she’s had on New Zealand wines.

Our final stop is Mt Rosa Winery for a personalized tour overlooking alpine meadows, and a tasting of the area’s distinctive Pinot noirs. Head Chef Ben Batterbury will prepare us an exquisite four-course farewell meal paired with some of our trip’s tasting highlights, including our Adelsheim wines.

Elegant fine-dining plate featuring an artistic arrangement of radishes, edible flowers, seeds, and delicate garnishes on a black dish, presented on a textured burlap surface.

Day 8 Highlights

  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn pair of binoculars with a strap. Scenic drive through Kawarau Gorge
  • New Zealand 2019_Hand-drawn illustration of a wine glass filled with golden wine, symbolizing elegant tastings and vineyard experiences. Tour and tasting at Burn Cottage and Valli
  • MOAD icon showing a hand-drawn plate, fork, knife, and spoon arranged on a placemat Farewell dinner at Mt Rosa Winery
  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn multi-story building with windows and a central entrance. Stay at Hotel St Moritz in Queenstown

Day 9

Alas, our time together in New Zealand is ending. This morning, we pack up and head to the airport, brimming with a week’s worth of the finest wines and landscapes of the world. Until next time!

New Zealand 2019_A traveler wrapped in a patterned poncho stands on a cliff overlooking a serene lake surrounded by misty mountains, capturing the peaceful beauty and vast landscapes of New Zealand.

Day 9 Highlights

  • MOAD icon depicting a hand-drawn airplane flying in front of a textured golden circle. Transfer to airport
New Zealand 2019_Luxurious interior of the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour featuring elegant modern design, soft lighting, water features, and refined décor creating a serene ambiance.

Where We Sleep

Prepare for high style and design in some of New Zealand's most stunning locations—on the water, in the vines, at the base of mountains.

New Zealand 2019_Elegant hotel room with a contemporary design, featuring a large bed, blue velvet chairs, and soft natural lighting through a window with sheer curtains.

Hotel Grand Windsor

Auckland

At our stylish Auckland hotel set triumphantly in the waterfront Queens Wharf neighborhood on the Viaduct Harbour marine. Throughout the hotel, you’ll find Art Deco design like flowing marble staircases and vibrant tiered chandeliers, refurbished to their original 1930s glory. Take in views of the waterfront and city skyline from your elegant room, complete with modern amenities and appointed from a bygone era.

New Zealand 2019_Charming vineyard guesthouse with an outdoor dining area shaded by a pergola, surrounded by rows of grapevines and lush countryside under a bright blue sky.

Craggy Range

Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay

We’re setting up neck-to-neck with the glorious vines at this premier winemakers’ boutique cottages. Each comes with kitchen and living room areas, with big windows and a free-standing wood burner if the evening gets brisk, plus a patio looking over the tidy rows of grapes that bask in the sun below the winery’s namesake craggy peak of Ta Mata.

New Zealand 2019_The historic Martinborough Hotel bathed in warm sunset light, framed by autumn leaves, with parked cars lining the quiet street in this charming wine village.

Martinborough Hotel

Martinborough

Situated at the entrance of Martinborough’s quaint village square, our hotel has been the talk of the town for decades. One developer in the late 19th century described it as, “the finest hostelries ever erected in any inland town in New Zealand.” Steeped in history and overflowing with charm, the Martinborough Hotel has long served as a waypost for wide-eyed travelers and wine lovers.

New Zealand 2019_Modern hotel room in Queenstown with plush bedding, warm lighting, and a private balcony overlooking the tranquil blue waters of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains.

Hotel St Moritz

Queenstown

You’ll love our last base. Set at the foot of a mountain in New Zealand’s adventure capital, this luxury hotel offers full-on modern comfort with an emphasis on natural beauty. Rooms look over snow-capped peaks and the silvery surface of Lake Wakatipu. In addition to the compelling comforts of this hotel, you’re footsteps from central district’s shops, restaurants and bars.

Questions?

That’s OK, we have answers. Read our FAQs below or call +1 (855) 219-8018 to ask us any questions you have about traveling with Adelsheim Vineyard. We're here 8am-5pm weekdays, 9am-1pm Saturday Pacific.

  1. What does the price include?

    Eight nights at unique four- and five-star accommodations; private travel for all day trips and excursions; departure airport transfer; private tours with local guides and cultural experts; exclusive VIP access and tastings; guided activities, adventures and expeditions; entrance fees; daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners; local beverages with meals.

  2. What does the price not include?

    International roundtrip airfare; travel insurance; transportation to the trip’s starting point; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary; gratuity for tour leader.

  3. Where does this trip start and end?

    Our adventure begins at 9am on Monday, November 29, 2021 at the Hotel Grand Windsor in Auckland, New Zealand. The closest airport is the Auckland International Airport (AKL). We recommend arriving on or before November 28 to ensure you're at our starting point on time. Our adventure ends on Tuesday, December 7, 2021 in Queenstown, New Zealand. The closest airport is Queenstown Airport (ZQN). Your flight home should be scheduled to depart at 12:30pm or later from here.

  4. What travel documents are needed?

    US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand. US citizens are eligible for a visa waiver and therefore do not need a visa for tourists stays of three months or less. Under the visa waiver program, US citizens will be required to have a NZeTA, which can be applied for prior to travel and is valid for multiple visits for up to two years. For full requirements and information visit the New Zealand Embassy. For citizens of other countries, please check with New Zealand's embassy or consulate for information and requirements. 

  5. Do I need to pay a solo traveler supplement?

    For solo travelers, there is a $2,000 single-supplement fee—paid at the time of booking to secure a private room. If you would like us to pair you with a roommate, that option may be available upon checkout—these spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

  6. Who is going on this trip?

    Our adventures typically have between 10 and 20 guests, and our Modern Adventure Team. Our experiences are fun and inclusive and you can expect to be joined by a diverse group in terms of age, background and interests—including solo travelers, couples and friends traveling together. This adventure is for travelers age 18 and above.

  7. Who is leading this trip?

    This trip is led by an expert Modern Adventure trip leader. They're an experienced travel guide, a representative of Modern Adventure and your go-to person for questions or concerns on the trip. We’ll be joined throughout our adventure by local, expert guides who are deeply knowledgeable with respect to local cultures, customs and history and are passionate about sharing that with us.

  8. How strenuous are the activities?

    This adventure will require intermittent effort throughout and you should have an average amount of energy to participate.  Activities will include walking medium distances over uneven terrain and involving steps, a 10-mile fully-supported bike ride through flat terrain, and an easy-to-moderate hike. Some locations could present challenges to persons with special needs.  If you have any questions or concerns about particular activities of trip aspects, please reach out and we can answer additional questions.

  9. What is the cancellation policy?

    You may cancel 120 days or more before departure and receive a full refund minus a $1500 per person service fee ($500 of which may be retained as a future travel credit, valid for one year after cancellation). If you cancel on or after 119 days in advance, there is a 50% cancellation fee. On or after 59 days in advance, there is a 100% cancellation fee. See our full terms and conditions for details.

  10. Do I need Travel Insurance?

    We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs; if your trip plans change for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to get medical help, emergency transport, and for theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. For best coverage, always insure the full trip cost within two weeks of your initial trip deposit and note that most 'Cancel For Any Reason' policies must be purchased on the date of your initial deposit.

  11. When will my trip be confirmed?

    Because our trips are designed as small-group experiences, we need a minimum number of travelers for each departure. You will receive an email no later than 130 days prior to departure confirming your trip. If we don't meet the minimum, you’ll have the option of a full refund, reinstatement of any applicable trip credits, transferring to a different departure date, or converting your booking to a private departure. Please see our terms and conditions for complete details.

    Important: We strongly advise booking refundable flights and pre-trip accommodations, or waiting until you receive your trip confirmation.

  12. What is the Small Group Supplement?

    Our trips are priced based on a minimum of 10 guests. If a departure runs with 9 or fewer travelers, a Small Group Supplement (SGS) will apply. The SGS ensures your trip is guaranteed to run with the full program intact while offering you a more intimate, exclusive group experience.

    The supplement amount depends on the final group size and will be confirmed no later than 130 days before departure. If additional guests join after the SGS has been paid, it will be refunded. Please review our full terms and conditions for additional details.