Frequently Asked Questions

Alento offers an alternative to standard, rushed Queenstown private tours. We never pack itineraries with stops that aren’t enjoyable or feasible. Every experience is personalised, private, and paced so you can fully savour the scenery, culture, and wine. Your journey highlights the region’s heritage with authenticity and care.

Yes. Every tour is 100% private, designed exclusively for your group for a more personalised experience.

Yes. While most of our experiences are curated, every tour is designed to be tailored to your preferences - timing, pace, wineries, viewpoints, cultural stops, or special interests. For an extra touch of luxury, we can arrange helicopter transfers or private experiences for anniversaries, proposals, and other special celebrations, ensuring your day is memorable and uniquely yours.

Slow travel focuses on quality over quantity: fewer stops, more connection, deeper understanding, and time to savour the region. This ensures your private tour from Queenstown is relaxed, memorable, and authentic.

Absolutely. Every tour is designed so all guests feel welcome and comfortable. Specifically, our private Central Otago wine tours from Queenstown cater to every taste, from in-depth tastings for connoisseurs to approachable experiences for occasional drinkers or vineyard explorers. Browse our tours to find the experience that suits you best, or contact us if you’re unsure - either way, your day will be memorable and authentic.

Yes, however suitability depends on the tour and children’s ages. Please contact us directly so we can recommend the most appropriate option.

Yes. All tours are designed with comfort, gentle pacing, and flexibility - ideal for well-travelled guests.

Yes. Alento Tours operates under a New Zealand commercial licence, follows all New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) safety and driver fatigue regulations, and runs with a comprehensive Safety Management Plan. We always carry a first aid kit and a Personal Locator Beacon, and your guide holds a current First Aid Certificate.

As standard, each tour is all-inclusive, with details listed on the specific tour’s page. If you prefer, you can pay for meals or activities on the day. Extras not included - such as souvenirs, wine shipping, or personal purchases - are at your own expense.

Yes. Please let us know when booking so we can adapt the itinerary and stops to your requirements.

Complimentary accommodation pickup and drop-off is included from Queenstown City Center, Arrowtown, and Frankton. Airport or out-of-town pickups can also be arranged on request.

Duration varies by itinerary - please refer to each tour’s page for details. We offer flexibility, and your experience can be adapted to your pace, timing, and interests.

Most tours run rain or shine. If weather affects comfort, safety, or visibility, we’ll adjust the itinerary or offer alternative experiences so you can still enjoy the day. We provide rain umbrellas, and our vehicle has efficient heating and air conditioning to suit the season.

Queenstown weather can change quickly. We recommend comfortable layers, closed shoes, sunglasses, and smart-casual attire. We also provide SPF 50+ sunscreen.

Our luxury Mercedes V220d comfortably accommodates 1–5 passengers. For larger groups, please contact us.

You’ll travel in a premium, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz V220d: ideal for private Queenstown wine tours and scenic drives.

As a small, independent business, our private tours often fill quickly, especially in summer (December–February). Booking weeks or months ahead helps secure your preferred date and experiences. Last-minute enquiries are welcome.

All prices are shown in New Zealand dollars (NZD). If you pay with a foreign card via Stripe, your bank may add a small conversion or international transaction fee. Alento Tours does not charge any extra.

Credit and debit cards (via Stripe, or invoices), bank transfer, and payments through partner hotels or travel agents.

Yes. We partner with luxury travel agents, hotels, and concierges for bespoke itineraries and VIP experiences.

Flexible and traveller-friendly. The full policy is available here.

Yes. Simon speaks French, English, and Spanish fluently. Your private Queenstown tour will be guided entirely in your chosen language. Some locations, such as restaurants or activity providers, may not offer service in your language, but Simon provides translation and support throughout.

No. There is no extra fee for tours in French or Spanish.

You can write your preferred language in the notes of our Contact Form, or contact us directly.