Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour

Exploring the Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour

If you’re looking to get a true taste of New Zealand’s vibrant local scene in the Bay of Islands, this Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour might just be your perfect afternoon escape. This four-hour journey combines relaxed tastings, scenic drives, and excellent food, all led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their region’s best.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the variety of stops—from a family-run winery with a picturesque lake view, to a craft brewery with natural, preservative-free beers, and a spirits bar boasting the largest NZ selection north of Auckland. Plus, the included platter lunch and small group size ensure a personal touch.

That said, it’s worth considering that the tour’s duration is quite compact, so if you’re after a deep-dive into each producer or a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit brisk. Still, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a curated, authentic introduction to the Bay of Islands’ beverage scene. This tour appeals most to those who enjoy tasting adventures, scenic drives, and a friendly group atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Small Group Experience: Limited to just 11 participants for a more intimate vibe.
• Diverse Tastings: Includes wine, beer, and spirits, showcasing a broad range of local products.
• Scenic Locations: Enjoy beautiful views of lakes, vineyards, and the Bay of Islands.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and share insights about the local production process.
• Value for Money: Includes tastings, lunch, and transportation, making it a well-rounded experience.
• Flexibility: Pickup options in Paihia and Kerikeri offer convenience for travelers staying in either town.

What to Expect from the Tour

This curated four-hour experience kicks off at either the Paihia I-site or the BP Service Station in Kerikeri, with pickup times around 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm respectively. The small group size—max 11 people—means you’ll get personal attention and plenty of chances to ask questions.

First Stop: Marsden Estate

Your journey begins at Marsden Estate, a family-owned vineyard established over 30 years ago by the McIvor family. Here, you’ll get to sample six different wines—ranging from crisp whites to robust reds—while soaking in the views of vines sprawling over a lake. The highlight is the platter lunch served in their relaxed courtyard, overlooking the vineyard and water. Reviewers consistently mention the quality and variety of the wines as a major plus, along with the friendly, knowledgeable staff. One guest noted, “The wine tasting was wonderful, and the lunch platter was fresh and satisfying in a beautiful setting.”

Second Stop: Phat House Brewery

Next, you’ll head to Phat House Brewery near Haruru Falls, a craft brewery founded in 2015 by Caroline and Rob. Their dedication to natural, preservative-free brewing results in beers and ciders that are both tasty and unique. You’ll be able to sample up to four different drinks, choosing from a range of unfiltered and unpasteurized options. Reviewers love the passion of the owners—”they are clearly dedicated to quality and natural ingredients,” one commented—and appreciate the chance to try something a little different from mainstream brews.

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Final Stop: Bad Habits Spirit Bar

The last stop is in Paihia at Bad Habits, reputed to house the largest selection of NZ-made spirits north of Auckland. This bar stocks an impressive 46 gins, 19 rums, 24 whiskeys, and 34 liqueurs. Here, you’ll taste three spirits paired with small bites that complement each product. Guests often highlight the quality of the spirits and the variety available. One reviewer mentioned, “The guide explained the differences in spirits so well, and the tastings were very enjoyable with the food pairing.”

Ending the Tour

After the spirit tasting, the group is transported back to either Kerikeri or Paihia, depending on your pickup point. The overall pace is brisk but manageable, leaving plenty of time to savor each tasting and enjoy the scenic drives.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Stop

Marsden Estate: A Family-Run Vineyard Experience

This stop gives you a glimpse into New Zealand’s renowned wine production. The estate’s history stretches back over three decades, and the McIvor family’s passion shines through every sip. The six tastings cover a variety of varieties, giving you insight into the local terroir and the vineyard’s style. The setting itself—overlooking a lake with vines—makes for a relaxed and picturesque environment, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration. The included platter lunch adds a satisfying touch, featuring fresh local produce that pairs well with the wines.

Phat House Brewery: Craft Beer with Heart

Founded in 2015, Phat House Brewery emphasizes natural ingredients and traditional brewing methods. The unfiltered, unpasteurized beers have a distinctive character, often described as more authentic and flavorful. The brewery’s owners, Caroline and Rob, are clearly passionate about their craft, and their enthusiasm makes the tasting experience engaging. Sampling up to four beers or ciders allows you to compare styles and find your favorite. Reviewers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and expert guidance—”they take pride in their beers and want you to understand what makes each one special.”

Bad Habits: The Spirits Powerhouse

This bar is a treasure trove for spirit lovers. With the largest range of NZ spirits outside Auckland, it’s a great place to learn about local distilling techniques and flavors. The tasting includes three spirits, accompanied by small bites that help highlight each flavor profile. Guests often mention how much they learned from the guides about the differences among gin, whiskey, rum, and liqueurs. Visitors also find it fun to sample a variety of spirits they might not find elsewhere, making this a memorable conclusion to your beverage journey.

Transportation & Group Size

Transportation is by comfortable van, with the tour designed for small groups—just 11 participants maximum. This setup allows for a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with your guide, Derek, who several reviewers mention as “super friendly and very knowledgeable.” Pickup options from both Paihia and Kerikeri make it convenient regardless of your accommodation. The total duration of four hours is compact but packed with tastings and scenic views, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire for quality experiences.

Price & Value

While specific prices aren’t detailed here, the inclusion of tastings at three different venues, a platter lunch, and transportation suggests solid value. You’re paying for a curated experience that combines local flavors, scenic drives, and expert insights—something that can be hard to find if trying to visit each outlet independently. Reviewers consistently mention the value for money, noting the variety of tastings and the engaging guides as major highlights.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine and craft beer enthusiasts eager to explore New Zealand’s local producers without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s also great for those who appreciate learning about the production process in a relaxed setting. If you’re after a sociable, small-group adventure with plenty of tastings and scenic beauty, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, travelers expecting a long, leisurely day might want to consider whether four hours is enough—this tour is more about quality and variety than extended, in-depth visits. It’s not suitable for children under 18, but couples, friends, or solo travelers will find it both fun and informative.

Final Thoughts

This Paihia or Kerikeri: Wine, Spirit, & Craft Beer Tour offers a well-rounded look into New Zealand’s beverage craftsmanship, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Islands. From the family-run vineyard to the artisan brewery and the spirits bar, each stop showcases what makes the local scene special—authenticity, quality, and a touch of scenic beauty.

The small group size, knowledgeable guides like Derek, and inclusive tasting experience make this a top choice for those wanting a fun, educational, and tasty afternoon. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable way to spend an afternoon, this tour delivers genuine value and authentic insights you’ll remember long after your glass is empty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t mentioned, the included platter lunch at Marsden Estate is likely to be flexible. It’s best to contact the provider directly ahead of booking for personalized dietary requests.

How many tastings are included at each stop?
You’ll enjoy six wine tastings at Marsden Estate, up to four craft beers or ciders at Phat House Brewery, and three spirits at Bad Habits, with food pairings at the spirits bar.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 11 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Can I book this tour if I am staying in Paihia or Kerikeri?
Yes, the tour offers pickup options in both locations—1:30 pm from Paihia I-site and 2:00 pm from Kerikeri BP Service Station.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

Are children under 18 allowed on this tour?
No, this experience is not suitable for those under 18.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides providing clear explanations and insights throughout.

In essence, this small-group wine, beer, and spirit tour in the Bay of Islands offers a delightful blend of local tastes, scenic beauty, and friendly guidance—ideal for those wanting an authentic, engaging experience that balances fun and education.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby