Once upon a time, a passionate winemaker was working away in a quiet, cold cellar when he realised he had more to share – stories, knowledge, and a deep love for Marlborough’s wine. After a brainstorming session (and a few good wines) with his wife, they decided it was time to bring those stories to life outside the cellar walls. And just like that, Hop ‘n Grape Tours was born.
The idea truly came to life one sunny afternoon when Kylie was painting a mural in town. A group of visitors from Christchurch stopped to admire her artwork and, curious about Marlborough’s wine, asked if she knew anyone who could take them on a tour. Without missing a beat, Kylie said, “Yes, my husband can!” and promptly informed Cam that he had his first tour the very next day. Thrown in the deep end, he guided that group with the same passion he’d once poured into winemaking – and the rest is history.
Established in 2014
Hop ‘n Grape Tours started with a single van, a big dream, and a whole lot of heart. Today, with the help of our incredible, wine-wise guides, and a handsome fleet of vehicles, we’ve been hopping around the region ever since – opening cellar doors you can’t visit without a winemaker and showcasing our place, our people, and our wine.
At the heart of it all is our family – our two free-spirited kids and our four-legged mascot, Lexie. Together, we’re proud to share the real Marlborough experience genuine, down-to-earth, and full of flavour!
Cameron Clarke (Owner) | Tour Host | Logistics | Digital Marketing
Gidday! I’m a down-to-earth, 5th-generation Kiwi who grew up on a dairy farm in Taranaki. From steering a tractor, I also mastered the art of cooking a seriously good bowl of porridge along the way.
My passion for wine led me to study winemaking and viticulture right here in Marlborough, and I’ve been lucky enough to work in wineries across Australia, the US, and Europe. With over 20 years in the industry, I love sharing that knowledge with our visitors.
When I’m not showing people the beauty of Marlborough, you’ll find me surfing, snowboarding, fishing, or enjoying family adventures with my wonderful wife Kylie and our two free-spirited teenagers. Hop ‘N Grape Tours is a dream brought to life, and we’re proud to share it with every guest who joins us.
Kylie Clarke (Owner) | H.R. | Systems | Administration & Accounts
Kia ora! I was raised here in Marlborough. I moved away for study and to start my career, but like many Marlborians, I eventually returned home – started a family, built a life, and together with Cam, created a business we’re proud of.
I love outdoor adventures – bushwalking, exploring the Marlborough Sounds, and climbing mountains. Living here means we’re at the gateway to some of New Zealand’s most stunning spots, from Nelson/Tasman to Kaikoura and Saint Arnaud.
I’m not a tour guide, but I’m the one behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. From managing the brand and systems, to HR, administration, and accounts – I keep the wheels turning so our guests have an amazing experience every time.
Darlene Tolentino | Tour Host | Administrative Assistant
I’m originally from the Philippines, and when Marlborough’s booming wine industry called, I decided to study winemaking. From the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the stunning scenery, sunny weather, and relaxed lifestyle – and I’m proud to now call Marlborough home.
I’ve worked in various roles across the wine industry, from cellarhand to quality control and laboratory work, Working at well-known wineries such as Kim Crawford.
When I’m not sharing my love of wine with visitors, you’ll find me tending my garden or cooking up a storm in the kitchen. I’m also a proud mum to a sweet and cheeky young man who keeps me on my toes!
Amanda Tollemache | Tour Host
I have called Marlborough home for over 25 years. After training as an actor in Auckland, a combination of professional theatre closures and a growing young family inspired my husband and me to trade city life for the sunshine and beauty of this incredible region.
Wine has been a central part of my working life for over 20 years, with time spent in the cellar doors of some of Marlborough’s most iconic wineries, including Cloudy Bay, Fromm, Rock Ferry and Lawson’s Dry Hills. Alongside that, I spent 10 wonderful years as a tour guide for senior and retiree groups, hosting trips both locally and throughout New Zealand.
When I’m not hosting a wine tour, you’ll occasionally find me back on stage at the local theatre. I also love cooking, and I’m usually curled up with a good book. I look forward to welcoming you to beautiful Marlborough and sharing a taste of what makes this region so special.
Doug Avery | Tour Host
Hi there! I’ve lived in Marlborough my whole life and was raised on our family’s sheep, beef, and cropping farm – it’s been in the family for over 100 years. My wife and I have three outstanding “replacements,” who have since provided us with five wonderful grandchildren (so far!).
Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to be recognised for my work in farming – winning South Island Farmer of the Year and New Zealand Agricultural Communicator of the Year. I also wrote the bestselling book The Resilient Farmer, which took me on an international storytelling tour, and I was honoured to receive the NZ Order of Merit for services to agricultural farming systems and mental health.
Now semi-retired, I enjoy lending a hand in the vineyards, volunteering at the Grovetown Lagoon wetland restoration project, and spending my spare time tramping, fishing, or mountain biking.
Maurice Davies | Tour Host
Kia ora! I was born and raised right here in Marlborough, and I absolutely love this region. We’re surrounded by vineyards, blessed with incredible seafood, and there’s wild game everywhere!
I’ve been part of the wine industry for over 35 years, working both in the winery as a cellar hand and, more extensively, in viticulture across several vineyards and one of Marlborough’s top wineries.
I’m married and always joke that I’d love to have fifteen kids so I can start my own rugby team! When I’m not guiding tours and sharing my passion for Marlborough wine, you’ll probably find me performing stand-up comedy, or on a BBQ grill cooking for my family.
Lexie | Chief Happiness Officer | Vineyard Pest Control
Our story wouldn’t be complete without this little lady! Lexie is our furry Hop ‘n Grape mascot – a Cairn Terrier whose top priority is greeting everyone with enthusiasm and melting hearts with her cuteness.
When she’s not in the office keeping morale high, you’ll find her out in the vineyards on pest control duty – chasing rabbits, tracking mice, and helping scare off the birds. She was born and bred for the job, and she takes her work very seriously!