Seven wineries have announced they will show at next year’s revamped Waiheke Island wine festival in the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland.

The three-day event is longer than previous festivals and will be held at Isola Estate, which will also soon be home to the island’s first five star resort, The Langham Place Vineyard Resort and Spa.

“What’s important in this event is its appeal to those serious about their enjoyment of fine wine. It’s a festival where wine comes first, food second and music third,” says Waiheke Winemakers’ Association president Chris Canning.

The festival will be held over Waitangi Weekend from February 6 to 8, 2009.

Participating wineries are a mix of newcomers and established winemakers, including Cable Bay, Goldwater, Isola Estates, Man O’War, Mudbrick, Obsidian and Stonyridge.

There are no gate sales to the Waiheke Island Wine Festival. Tickets go on sale from November 29, 2008: www.ticketek.co.nz

www.waihekewinefestival.co.nz