Queenstown Wine Trail is owned and operated by a local family focused on delivering premium wine tours.
Our Story
Queenstown Wine Trail is Central Otago’s original and most trusted wine tour company—established in 1992 and proudly 100% New Zealand owned and operated. We didn’t just start offering wine tours—we literally created the Queenstown Wine Trail (That’s where our company name originated). Back in the early ‘90s, we were the first to connect Queenstown’s visitors with the region’s emerging vineyards, and our name became the blueprint for wine touring in the area. Everyone who came after, simply followed in our footsteps.
For over 33 years, we’ve been welcoming guests into the heart of wine country, sharing our love of local wine, spectacular landscapes, and the vibrant stories behind every vintage. As the pioneers of wine tasting tours in the region, we’ve built close relationships with boutique, award-winning wineries across Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn, Cromwell and deeper into Central Otago—giving you access to exclusive, behind-the-scenes tasting experiences that go beyond the ordinary.
Our tours are led by qualified, passionate local guides who live and breathe Central Otago wine. Whether you’re swirling your first Pinot Noir, sipping a crisp Riesling, or discovering new favourites, we tailor every experience to feel welcoming, authentic, and unforgettable. Expect a friendly, expert-led day of wine tasting in Queenstown with the best in the business. Your journey starts here—with the original Queenstown wine tour company that set the benchmark for wine tourism in the region.
Our Commitment
At Queenstown Wine Trail, our commitment is to deliver experiences of exceptional quality that celebrate the very best of Central Otago and its world-renowned wines. As the region’s pioneering wine tour company for more than three decades, we uphold the highest standards of guest safety, comfort, and care, recognised through our achievemnent of Tourism New Zealand’s Gold Qualmark Award.
Our team is continually supported through professional training and development, ensuring expertise and genuine hospitality at every step. We are equally proud to champion sustainability, taking active measures to minimise our footprint and support environmentally conscious practices. Above all, we delight in curating bespoke wine journeys that blend enjoyment with education, creating memorable experiences that embody the excellence and authenticity of Central Otago’s world-class vineyards.
Our Wine Guides
Andrew - Director
& Wine Guide – WSET® Qualified
Wine Trail Boss & Pinot Devotee-in-Chief
From Auckland’s North Shore to the vineyards of Central Otago, Andrew’s story is one of full-circle magic, heart-led choices, and a deep love for the land — and for the person he came here with.
Back in January 2001, he and his wife honeymooned in Queenstown and took a wine tour with Queenstown Wine Trail — led by none other than Lance, the man who would later become his business partner. At the time, they were the only 'JAFA' couple on the tour, but as Lance said, they were “okay” — and "could stay". So eventually… they did.
In 2005, they packed up their life in Auckland — baby daughter, cat and all — and made the leap to Queenstown. What started as a holiday dream became a whole new chapter. After working in tourism and managing a local info centre, Andrew joined Queenstown Wine Trail as Business Manager in 2014. Nineteen years after that first tour, he became co-owner of the very company that welcomed them in all those years ago.
Today, Andrew leads with quiet confidence, heartfelt humour, and a strong belief in keeping things real. He’s recently completed his WSET Level 2 and, as a proud Pinot Noir enthusiast, claims to be at least 50% Pinot by now. Whether guiding guests or supporting the team, his style is calm, grounded, and effortlessly people-first — with just enough dad jokes to keep everyone smiling.
Beyond the business, Andrew’s most at home outdoors — biking, skiing, walking the trails with their energetic dog Maggie — and living life alongside his favourite human being.
Together, they’ve helped shape Queenstown Wine Trail into the trusted, family-hearted experience it is today: small in size, big in heart, and proudly rooted in the region since 1992.
(And yes, you can still expect awesomeness.)
Kiersten - Director
& Wine Guide – WSET® Qualified
In Love with the Craft, the Land, the Moment
From her first wine tour in Queenstown as a newlywed, to co-owning Queenstown Wine Trail with her husband Andrew, Kiki’s journey has come full circle — and then some.
Kiki’s journey to the wine world began not with a swirl or a sip, but with love — a honeymoon in Queenstown, a wine tour with Queenstown Wine Trail, and a bottle of Chard Farm Riesling that still holds a special place in her heart. Years later, that same tour company would become part of her own family’s story.
Originally from Dunedin, she brings a grounded southern warmth to every part of the business. Whether she’s guiding guests through the vineyards, juggling ops and marketing behind the scenes, or cheering on the team, Kiki leads with heart, humour, and a gift for making people feel instantly at ease.
Kiki brings both passion and perspective to her guiding. She doesn’t make wine complicated — instead, she opens it up, helping guests feel seen, welcomed, and comfortable in the experience, no matter their wine knowledge. For her, wine is a story of place and connection: a living portrait of the land, the vintage, the hands that crafted it. And guiding is about people — hearing their stories, sharing a bit of her own, and creating space for magic to unfold.
When she’s not hosting guests, you’ll likely find her walking or biking the trails with Maggie (her lively border collie-springer mix), skiing, gardening or baking — And in winter, you’ll likely find mulled wine on the stovetop (and maybe even in dinner too!).
A proud mum, a devoted wife, and one of the quiet driving forces behind so much of what makes Queenstown Wine Trail shine.
In Kiki’s world, it’s all about people and their stories, the winemakers and their wine, and a just a dash of magic — the kind that lingers long after the last tasting.
Claire
Expert Wine Guide – WSET® Qualified
World Wanderer & Champion of Good Vibes
Originally from West London, Claire brings warmth, curiosity, and a zest for life to every tour she hosts. A passionate solo traveller with over 50 countries explored, she’s drawn to people and their stories—making wine guiding in Central Otago a perfect fit.
Claire was referred to Queenstown Wine Trail by friends who knew she’d thrive in a supportive, family-run business with a reputation for genuinely caring about its people. After years working in disability care, she brings a deep sense of empathy and connection to her role—always attentive, making guests feel welcome and at ease. Her approach is relaxed, inclusive, and full of playful English humour!
Though new to the wine industry, Claire’s enthusiasm is unmistakable. She’s already begun her WSET qualifications and is hungry to keep learning. Riesling stole her heart on arrival, but Pinot Noir is fast becoming a close second.
Outside of guiding, Claire is always on the go—snowboarding, paddleboarding, hosting dinner nights, quizzing, or getting creative with craft projects. She also has volunteered with VSO (Volunteer Services Overseas), reflecting her deep commitment to people, service and global connection.
Claire is an amazing young woman with a real heart for others. For her, it’s all about living life to the fullest and helping others to do the same—creating unfortgettable moments that turn strangers into friends, one glass of wine at a time!
Teaukura
Expert Wine Guide – WSET® Qualified
Playlist Pro & Group Whisperer
A proud Cook Island Kiwi, T (short for Teaukura) brings warmth, wit, and wisdom to every wine tour he hosts. Raised in Invercargill and now based in Queenstown, he’s been sharing the region’s beauty with our guests for years—and is a favourite among visitors for his signature blend of fun, heart, and dad jokes.
Before joining Queenstown Wine Trail, T lived a few lives—working in professional sports photography, and now channeling his love for Central Otago into wine guiding. With WSET Level 2 under his belt and a deep appreciation for Pinot Noir ("no competition!"), he blends knowledge with humour to make wine feel approachable and enjoyable for all.
Guests can expect plenty of laughs, unexpected serenades, and a genuine connection—as T says, “I treat everyone like family.” When he’s not leading tours, you’ll likely find him behind the lens, cheering for a rugby league match, or cooking up something delicious (glass of wine in hand, of course).
Whether you’re a wine newbie or a seasoned sipper, a day with T is one to remember—heartfelt, hilarious, and full of good vibes.
Ed
Diploma Certified Wine Guide, DipWSET®
Senior Wine Guide & Resident Sense-of-Place Storyteller
Soft-spoken but quietly hilarious, Ed is one of those rare humans who seems to know everything there is to know about wine — and still shares it with such kindness, warmth, and humility that you can’t help but be drawn in.
Originally from England, Ed made his mark in Central Otago working in the region’s top wineries, including Kinross, before joining us as a wine guide. While working with us over several years, he earned his WSET Level 4 diploma — the highest qualification in WSET education. These days, he also works with Wine-Searcher, and continues to build his influence in the wine world through his social media, thoughtful wine education, and, of course, enthusiastic consumption!
A passionate educator, Ed has an extraordinary ability to bring wine to life — exploring terroir, varietal nuance, and global context with ease. He’s a deep thinker, a gentle guide, and a generous mentor to our younger crew, always ready with encouragement, insight, and the kind of grounded wisdom that makes a lasting impact.
We’re over the moon when Ed returns to Queenstown and jumps back in the vehicle. He brings with him not just knowledge, but heart. He’s also recently married to the wonderful Lizzie, and together they make a dream team. And if you're lucky enough to be on board with Ed, you might just catch one of his legendary karaoke sessions — known to rival even T’s singalongs!
To say we’re proud of Ed doesn’t come close. He’s precious beyond measure, and every time he returns, it feels like family coming home.
Emily
Wine Guide – WSET® Qualified
Vineyard Vanguard & Pinot Whisperer
Emily may be our youngest guide, but don’t let that fool you — she’s confident, capable, qualified and completely at ease in the world of wine. Raised in Queenstown, she’s grown up at the vineyards across Central Otago, giving her an authentic local insight that's hard to match.
Currently studying architecture, Emily returns each summer to join the Wine Trail family — and we’re always thrilled to have her back. Warm, friendly, and especially attentive to solo travellers, she makes every guest feel genuinely welcome and cared for.
As Andrew and Kiersten’s eldest daughter, Emily has been part of the Wine Trail story from day one. Whether answering phones, managing bookings, or lending her talented graphic design skills, she’s a true all-rounder with a big heart and fresh energy that keeps the team buzzing!
Her wine of choice? In summertime it's Mt Rosa's Rosé, while winter calls for an elegant Wild Irishman Pinot Noir or a delicious, dry mulled wine!
Blake
Expert Wine Guide
Chill Charmer from the Coast with a Surf Soul
Originally from Whangārei in New Zealand’s subtropical north, Blake grew up roaming the beaches of Tutukaka before swapping coastlines for mountains and making Queenstown his home. Drawn by the region’s alpine beauty and endless adventure, he quickly found his groove hiking Ben Lomond, biking local trails, and enjoying lakeside BBQs with friends.
Blake’s path to wine guiding is as dynamic as his personality. After years in corporate software roles, he founded a tech start-up focused on simplifying personal gifts and loans. His love for wine runs deep, especially Central Otago Pinot Noir, which he’s enjoyed over the years during tastings from Wellington’s Martinborough to Cromwell’s cellar doors.
Joining Queenstown Wine Trail was a natural next step. New to the industry but passionate about sharing the region’s stories, Blake brings a fresh perspective and an easy, down-to-earth style. He’s all about creating relaxed, personalised experiences, blending wine insights with genuine connection and great conversation.
Guests can expect a guide who’s curious, calm, and full of local tips—whether it’s where to find the best local hike or which Pinot to take home. Ask him about his favourite drop and you’ll likely hear about Blondie from Wooing Tree for laid-back summer sipping, or the elegant Valli Gibbston Pinot Noir for something truly special.
Outside of guiding, Blake lives for outdoor adventures, good chats, and vineyard concerts — Toast Martinborough gets a nostalgic grin!
Rob
Expert Wine Guide
Our Sky-to-Vine Host with the Most
Before joining us, Rob spent years flying high—literally. A retired airline pilot, he’s swapped the cockpit for Central Otago’s country roads, bringing the same calm, precision, and warm professionalism to every journey.
These days, he’s guiding guests through vineyard-studded landscapes instead of airspace, but he still charts the perfect course. Rob is a true gentleman and an exceptional host, earning rave reviews for his flexibility, thoughtfulness, and deep knowledge of the region. Whether he’s helping guests fine-tune their itinerary or offering a perfectly timed recommendation, Rob’s the kind of guide who makes every trip feel effortless and tailored.
Highly intelligent, endlessly kind, and always composed, Rob brings a quiet confidence to every wine experience—like a fine wine, he’s full of character, gracefully aged, and only getting better with time.
He may have traded in jet engines for grapevines, but Rob still knows how to deliver a smooth ride. We’re proud to have him as part of our team—and grateful that he’s landed here with us.
Paddy
Expert Wine Guide
Our International Man of Mystery (and Wine)
Paddy might just be the most elusive guide on our team—when he’s here, he’s unforgettable… and when he’s not, he’s probably somewhere offshore doing something top secret (We assume it’s MI6 or Master of Wine–related but he’s not saying).
A long-time Queenstown local (originally from Te Puke), Paddy has a deep love for Central Otago and a quiet brilliance that guests instantly warm to. With years of guiding under his belt, he brings a calm, intelligent presence and encyclopaedic knowledge of wine, geology, and regional history—he has a way of making you see wine in a whole new light.
When he’s back in town, he slots effortlessly into the team like he never left—always cool under pressure (even in roadworks) and always with a few new stories up his sleeve. Guests love his thoughtful, quietly captivating style, and we love having him back—whenever he appears with a suitcase, a smile, and that signature hat and sunglasses.
Paddy’s also a proud dad to two kids (one daughter and one son) and husband to an incredible wife who holds the fort while he’s off gallivanting globally. Off-duty, he’s likely soaking up fine art, enjoying music festivals, or sipping something exceptional and thoughtfully aged.
If Paddy were a wine, he’d be a Pinot Noir worth cellaring—layered, quietly complex, and full of character with even more to discover over time.
Catch him while you can.
Maggie
Our Wine Dog
Ball Chaser & Chief Cuddle Officer
Maggie might be 11, but don’t tell her that — she’s got the energy of a pup and the bounce to prove it! A border collie–springer spaniel cross with a serious love for strawberries, tennis balls, and couch cuddles, she’s the heart and soul of our Head Office here at Queenstown Wine Trail.
While she doesn’t join the wine tours* (much as she’d love to meet everyone!), Maggie keeps the office crew smiling with her playful energy and top-tier snuggles.
Playful, affectionate, and a little bit goofy, Maggie is our behind-the-scenes morale booster — and a frequent star of our camera roll. Guests often ask about her, and once you’ve seen her photo, you’ll know why. She’s got charm, character, and cuddle power in spades — and we wouldn’t have it any other way!
*Many wineries and vineyards have their own cherished wine dogs, so out of respect for them, Maggie happily holds court at our head office — ready with a ball, a snuggle, or a snooze!
Join us?
Trainee Wine Guide
Dream of living the wine guide life — sharing world-class wines, hosting with passion and pride, and soaking up the Central Otago lifestyle? This could be your perfect fit.
Wine Tour FAQ's
In NZ, the legal drinking age is 18yrs, and all guests must carry valid ID when visiting wineries. For full information regarding valid forms of ID please see here | CLICK HERE
Our full-day Central Otago Wine Tour is a genuine small-group experience with a maximum of just 8 guests, ensuring an intimate and relaxed day.
On our half-day Daily Wine Tours, we run with 2 to 14 guests, providing a personal and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For larger groups or private groups, please contact our friendly team, who will be delighted to create a customised experience tailored just for you .
We provide complimentary transfers to select Queenstown hotels and key bus stops in the town centre, including Frankton Road and Frankton Bus Shelter.
When booking, simply enter your accommodation and we will confirm your nearest pick-up location. If your property is not listed, please contact us and we will assist in arranging the most convenient pick-up point for you.
Yes, we are a family-friendly company, however we do recommend that you book a private tour for your family if it includes children.
Our Daily Group Tours focus on wine tasting and are best suited for guests aged 18 and over.
Yes! Queenstown Wine Trail operates daily throughout the year so you can choose the best tour option for you. There are some NZ Public Holidays that we are closed and full details are can be found here | CLICK HERE
After 33 years, we know what makes a wine tour exceptional. Every winery we visit is special and of high quality, and we focus on small, boutique vineyards off the beaten path with friendly, knowledgeable staff. On rare occasions, if a cellar door is unavailable, we’ll select an alternative to ensure your experience remains premium.
Full-Day Central Otago Wine Tour
We typically visit a curated selection of boutique wineries, including Kinross, Carrick, Te Kano Estate, Misha’s Vineyard, Mt Difficulty, and Terra Sancta. Each is chosen for its exceptional wines and welcoming, knowledgeable staff, ensuring a memorable tasting experience.
Half-Day Small Group Tours
Our half-day tours showcase a selection of wineries close to Queenstown, including Mt Rosa, Kinross, Gibbston Valley Wines, Brennan, Waitiri Creek, The Church Cellar Door, Nockies Palette, and Ayrburn. Guests enjoy a personalised wine tasting journey with minimal travel time, making for a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Each tour varies, but our afternoon tours often enjoy lunch at Kinross Winery, while full-day tours typically stop at Carrick or Mt Difficulty. On occasions when these wineries aren’t available, we arrange a suitable substitute to ensure your lunch experience remains enjoyable.
Absolutely! Safety is paramount, and our wineries can accommodate most known food allergies if we’re informed in advance. Please make sure to let us know about any dietary requirements when booking, so we can ensure your needs are fully catered for.
Absolutely! Many wineries also offer door-to-door shipping. During the tour, all wine purchases are securely stored in the vehicle’s boot and handed to you at the end, so you can enjoy them later or take them home.
We kindly ask that no outside food or drinks be brought on board or to the wineries—our vehicles aren’t licensed, and this helps ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all guests. It’s best to leave them at home and enjoy the exceptional wines and dining available at the wineries during your tour.
Dress comfortably and for the season! In summer, don’t forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. In winter, bring an extra warm layer to stay cozy during your tour.
Please see our Cancellation Policy here for full details, thank you.