Written by Appellation Wine Tours When winter arrives in Queenstown, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered playground framed by dramatic peaks and world-class vineyards. As a local wine tour company, we believe winter is one of the most magical times to experience the region - where powder days meet pinot noir, and adrenaline meets indulgence. […]

Written by Kristen (Expedition Kristen) New Zealand, an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, offers a rich and diverse history. This is characterized by the arrival of the Māori people over a thousand years ago and subsequent European colonisation in the 18th century. If you are wondering what to do in 10 days in […]

Looking for the perfect mix of thrill and chill with your girls? In just one weekend, this girls trip to Queenstown had it all. From heart-racing freefalls over the Shotover River and high-speed jet boat rides, to wine tasting in NZ’s largest wine cave and a surprisingly lovable 18km e-bike adventure. Queenstown has been dubbed […]

Written by Craig Tansley A goal of becoming the first carbon zero visitor economy by 2030 By 2030 – if things go to plan – you'll land in Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island (possibly aboard an electric-powered airplane) and make your way to town. This could be via an electric gondola or hydro-powered ferry. Skiers and […]

Written by Queenstown, NZ Will you be joining a tour that is on the road to an emissions free future with electric vehicles? With connections to the transport industry since the 1920s, Appellation Wine Tours has a long history of showcasing fine wines, local sights, and heritage attractions. They are committed to sustainability. Importantly, they […]

Appellation Going Greener Proudly introducing sustainable transportation with electric vans (EVs) into their fleet. Appellation Wine Tours have been the leading provider of immersive wine experiences in the Central Otago region for over 24 years. This significant investment underscores the company's commitment to long-term sustainability. It sets a new standard for eco-conscious tourism in the […]

THE WINERY TOUR If you're planning what to do for 10 days in New Zealand, leaving your rental wheels behind and allowing the team from Appellation Wine Tours to drive you direct to Central Otago's premium vineyards is a must. A highlight of the half-day "Valley of the Wines" tour is a visit to the […]

Want to learn how to taste and evaluate a glass of wine like a wine connoisseur? With the right approach, you can taste wine like an expert. If you want to swirl, sniff and sip like a pro then check out these top tips from award-winning Central Otago boutique winemaker, Waitiri Creek Wines. Navigating the world […]

Combining activities into combo tours, such as wine combo tours, is becoming increasingly popular among busy travelers looking to save both time and money. In a bustling destination like Queenstown, with countless “must-do” activities, maximizing time is key. Over the years, we’ve noticed clients juggling schedules to fit everything in, which inspired us to simplify […]

I must admit that I’ve never been game enough — or silly enough? — to do a bungy jump. The flight into Queenstown wasn't too bad, despite the proximity of some pretty rugged terrain. Although, I am told that when the clouds and turbulence close in it can get a bit hairy. The flight in […]

QUEENSTOWN IS BEST known as New Zealand’s adventure travel capital, with its ski fields on the imposing Remarkables and surrounding mountains, jet-boat rides and, of course, bungee jumping. But this South Island town has also become an epicentre for sustainable tourism ventures. These ventures address the growing demand for more environmentally responsible holidays. Embrace the […]

By Freelance Travel Writer, Sally Scott. If you're seeking experiences that offer both charm and local flavour, exploring cellar doors can be a delightful addition to your journey. Alluxia Founder & Freelance Travel Writer Sally Scott was commissioned by International Traveller Magazine. She was asked to write a story on the best cellar doors in Central Otago and […]

By Robin Lensi - wine tasting in Otago Recently I had an amazing chance to travel to New Zealand, which offers some of the best wine tasting tour experiences. Wow, they really live the sweet life there! The area around Queenstown, New Zealand is surrounded by soaring snow capped mountains & glacier lakes. However, there is […]

Written by A March Among the Vine A Tour Down Under, Otago We love it when people either blog about us, or blog about the Central Otago Wine region. Its a win win for us, because it helps get this fantastic cool-climate wine region on the international radar. There are enough international award-winning wines coming […]