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Meet Michelle

Hi there!

I’m Michelle, owner and operator of Living the Dream Tours!

I am a Wanaka local of nearly 20 years and tour guiding and fine wine are two of my passions! For the past few years I have been lucky enough to take visitors on 2-3 week road trips all over New Zealand. I have also evaded many winter months and been a tour guide all over Canada and the Usa and specifically a wine tour guide in Napa, Sonoma and the Russian River in California. 

My tours are all about fun, wine tasting and sightseeing. I know so many local hidden gem wineries and winemakers who are excited to show you their craft. Let’s spend one day together enjoying each other's company over your glass of world class wine in beautiful Central Otago. Life’s too short to drink bad wine - I look forward to showing you a great time... and amazing wine. I’ve got heaps of local knowledge and can give you tips on activities you can’t miss while you’re in town or continuing on your NZ adventure. 

Cheers! Laughter and delicious wine awaits!

About Living The Dream Tours

Welcome to Living the Dream Tours, the best choice for wine tours in Wanaka and the stunning Central Otago region. We provide exceptional wine tasting experiences that celebrate the unique flavors and traditions of New Zealand's fruitful wine industry. Our passion is to connect visitors with the best local wineries and offer immersive adventures that highlight the beauty of our region. 

Founded by Michelle, a local tour guide with nearly 20 years of experience, Living the Dream Tours is rooted in a deep love for fine wine and a good time! Michelle's extensive knowledge of the boutique wineries and hidden gems in Central Otago makes Living the Dream Tours one of a kind. Over the years, she has guided guests on incredible wine tasting adventures throughout New Zealand, as well as in prestigious wine regions across Canada and the USA, including Napa Valley and Sonoma. 

Our wine tours are designed for everyone- from enthusiastic novices to seasoned wine lovers-ensuring that you have a remarkable day celebrating the region’s best wines. With a maximum of just 8 guests per tour, we create an intimate environment perfect for enjoying wine and food pairings while making new friends. Each tour includes visits to 5 stunning wineries, where you can enjoy complimentary tastings and a delicious gourmet lunch platter. 

In addition to our full-day wine tours, we also offer half-day tours and  private wine tours, tailored to your interests. Whether it's a romantic outing, a fun gathering with friends, or a unique corporate retreat, we can customise your itinerary to include visits to family-owned estates, local gin distilleries, or even a relaxing afternoon at a brewery. With Living the Dream Tours, your experience is all about enjoyment, education, and exceptional wines. 

Join us for a day filled with laughter, stunning landscapes, and stories shared over a glass of world-class wine. Discover the finest wineries, engage with passionate local winemakers, and explore the breathtaking beauty of Wanaka and Central Otago- life’s too short to drink bad wine!