Just inland from Tasman Bay, Moutere is made for slow exploring. Follow country roads between vineyards, artist studios, artisan producers and orchards, then linger over lunch, a local pint or a round of golf with views stretching across the bay.

Moutere’s clay-gravel soils, sunny climate and passionate winemakers have earned this small pocket of Nelson Tasman a big reputation for wine. Taste your way around Neudorf Vineyards, visit Flaxmore Vineyards on summer weekends, or settle in for a long lunch among the vines at Moutere Hills. Along the way, discover Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and aromatic varieties shaped by this distinctive landscape.
Hot tip: All three wineries are dog-friendly, so bring the pooch along for a sunny day out.

At the heart of Upper Moutere, The Moutere Inn has been welcoming locals and travellers since 1850. Under new local ownership for 2026, there’s fresh energy behind the bar and in the kitchen, with Beef + Lamb NZ Ambassador Chef Alistair Forster leading a seasonal, locally inspired food offering. Pull up a chair for a local craft beer, stay for a meal and soak up the easy-going community spirit of this much-loved country pub.

The country roads of Moutere are dotted with talented makers, from winemakers, cheesemakers and growers to ceramicists, sculptors, woodworkers and jewellers. Meet the people behind the produce and explore their studios during the Moutere Artisans Open Days each April and October. Visiting another time? Wine, Art & Wilderness can take you behind the scenes on a custom tour of the region’s creative side.

The Moutere artisan community has a deep connection to the landscapes around them. Gravel-threaded clay soils create ideal growing conditions for flavour-packed fruit, mushrooms and olives, so it’s no surprise to find roadside stalls and boutique stores dotted around the valley. Look out for locally made sheep cheese, olive oils, chutneys, jams and other artisan goodies, or find a selection of Moutere products under one roof at The Old Post Office, The Junction and Cook's Corner.

Pedal the quiet country roads of Moutere, winding past vineyards, orchards, hop gardens and rolling farmland. Hire an e-bike or make a day of it with local operators Cycle Nelson or Wheelie Fantastic, then build in a few stops for wine, local food and artisan finds along the way. Keen riders can tackle the hills from nearby Māpua or Motueka for a longer day in the saddle.
Slow things down with a night at Kina Beach, where you can camp near the coast or settle into one of the peaceful stays dotted around the peninsula. It’s a handy base for exploring Moutere and the wider Tasman area, but the real pleasure is staying put for a while. Wander the beach, take in views towards the Kahurangi ranges, and watch the lights begin to twinkle across Tasman Bay as evening settles in.

Perched on the Kina Cliffs, Tasman Golf Club pairs a relaxed round with some seriously good views. Play nine or 18 holes with Tasman Bay stretching out beside you and the mountains rising in the distance. Experienced golfer or casual player, it’s a pretty memorable place to tee off.
