Oeophiles, gourmands and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the myriad of verdant vineyards, breathtaking scenery and picturesque villages in the Waipara Valley, one of New Zealand's premier wine regions. The first vines were planted in Canterbury in 1975 and, today, the area is famed for its award-winning wines, tours and tastings. From Lyttelton, you'll travel north into the Waipara Valley on a panoramic drive with your driver/guide providing interesting and informative commentary. Discover how Waipara's long hot summers and cool winters produce grapes with intense flavors, richness and complex fruit resulting in excellent Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay wines. During the day, you'll visit three wineries where you'll learn to appreciate their wines' flavors and blends and be treated to a platter style lunch. Upon your return to Christchurch, you'll embark on a brief city tour before rejoining your ship.