Search icon

South Island

Start: Nelson
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 7 hours

Details

Discover Nelson’s Wine Country at Your Own Pace

Nelson’s Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour is the perfect way to enjoy the region’s vibrant wine scene without the pressure of a tight schedule. With five carefully selected stops, you can sip, taste, and relax while taking in the rolling hills and boutique vineyards. The flexible schedule lets you craft your own adventure, whether that’s a leisurely afternoon of tastings or a full day exploring Nelson’s countryside.

Each stop along the route offers something unique—whether it’s crisp Sauvignon Blancs, elegant Pinot Noirs, or a vineyard restaurant serving local produce. Travellers can take advantage of exclusive discounts at selected wineries, making this self-guided tour both enjoyable and great value. It’s the ideal blend of freedom and flavour for wine lovers who appreciate taking their time.

Tips for Planning Your Perfect Nelson Wine Tour

The tour starts at 10:00am, giving you plenty of time to plan your route and enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out. On busier days, the later 11:30am departure ensures everyone has space to travel comfortably between stops. Returning at 5:55pm, you’ll have a full day to sample wines, meet local makers, and enjoy the picturesque countryside.

It’s a good idea to book tastings and lunch in advance, especially if you’re travelling on weekends or with a group. Checking the current tour map before you go will help you decide which wineries and attractions you’d like to include. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual taster, Nelson’s Hop On Hop Off experience delivers a refreshing mix of flexibility, flavour, and fun.

Key Points to Remember

  1. Group Size: Groups of 8 or more must notify us in advance. Please advise us if your group exceeds 8 people.
  2. Pre-Booking Recommended: We highly recommend pre-booking lunch and wine tastings at each stop. This helps your day run smoothly. (Bookings not required for breweries, pubs, taverns, or Vines Village.)
  3. Special Occasions & Large Groups: Please contact us directly if you're organising a special event or travelling in larger numbers.
  4. Behaviour Policy: We enforce a strict duty of care. Passengers may be removed from the tour without refund for intoxication or disrespectful behaviour.
  5. No Alcohol Onboard: Alcohol consumption is not permitted on the bus.
  6. Cleaning Fee: A non-negotiable $250 fee applies if a passenger soils the bus.
  7. Food & Water: Please ensure you bring adequate food and water for your day.
  8. Be On Time: Be at your stop at least 5 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
  9. Delays: We are not responsible for delays caused by traffic or late arrivals.
  10. Group Size at Stops: We recommend no more than 3–4 couples disembark at a single winery. Smaller groups enhance the experience. You can always hop off at the next stop.
  11. Tasting Charges: Some wineries may charge for tastings; some may waive the fee with a purchase.
  12. Booking Locations: Bookings can be made online or at local visitor centres.

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adults: 14 years +
  • Drinking age: 18 years + (Drink only if you're of legal age. Bring ID to prove it if asked)
  • Children: 0-13 years

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

  • More than 14 days before departure: Full refund**.
  • Within 14 days: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Related Tours

Some other tours you might be interested in

Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.