This pretty drive into the Blenheim's wine district takes you to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, one of the finest collections of World War I aircraft in the world. Stunningly staged and mounted, the exhibition takes you back to another era.
Visit a leading privately-owned winery and taste delicious chocolate, during this half-day excursion. From Picton, travel down to Blenheim to Omaka Airfield, Blenheim's original airfield built after WW1. Omaka is home to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, owned by leading Hollywood film director Peter Jackson.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
The facility presents lifelike displays comprised of a spectacular collection of static and airworthy aircraft. As you enter the Aviation Heritage Centre, step back into an era when aviation was a gentleman's sport; when the Knights of the Sky jousted above the clouds on horses made of cloth and wire. Learn about some of the famous aviation aces and their amazing machines and marvel at the early aircraft in which heroes of yesteryear braved the skies. See such rare planes as the Caproni CA 22 (the last one remaining in the world), the Fokker DR.1 tri-plane and the De Havilland D.H.4. Part of the memorabilia collection includes items from Germany's fighter ace Manfred von Richthofen (the Red Baron).
Moa Brewery & Makana Chocolates
Your next visit is to a local micro-brewery. Founded by Josh Scott, Moa Brewery specializes in craft-brewed ales in champagne style; rounded off through the use of winemaking techniques, like bottle ageing and bottle fermentation. The name Moa (New Zealand's extinct giant dinosaur bird) also derives from the region, as in the early days Josh hand delivered brews to archaeologists working at a Moa bone dig near the brewery. Enjoy a tasting of Moa's fine brews.
Your last visit before returning to Picton is to Makana Chocolates where you can view chocolates being hand-made. Be sure to sample the finished product - a local favourite is their macadamia-coated chocolate. Re-board the coach and return to the pier.
Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking for approximately 800 yards (750 metres) over flat, paved surfaces. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair. All guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach via the bus steps. Due to the limited number of vehicles suitable for touring in this area, space is limited and all seats will be occupied. Minimum participant age is 21 years to sample wine.