11 New Zealand winery destinations that are perfect for a short-stay holiday

By MiNDFOOD

The Bay of Islands in New Zealand's Northland comprises 144 islands
The Bay of Islands in New Zealand's Northland comprises 144 islands
Adventure activities not your vibe? Why not drink your way around the country instead?

Aotearoa has premium wine regions nestled amongst some of the world’s most appealing tourist destinations.

Here are our tops picks for discovering the best of New Zealand wine on your next staycation adventure.

1. Wanaka

Wanaka is well known as a ski town but it’s also renowned for its wineries. Less than an hour’s drive from Queenstown, Wanaka is the perfect destination for a wine-lovers staycation. Rippon was recently named the best vineyard in Australasia on the World’s Best Vineyards list, so it’s not to be missed! Rippon placed high on the list thanks to its “jaw-droppingly beautiful views from the shore of Lake Wanaka” as well as its “sleek biodynamic wines”.

Rippon, Wanaka

2. Northland

Take yourself to the top of the country to find some great vineyard visit opportunities in Northland such as Paroa Bay, Marsden Estate and Ake Ake. 

3. Auckland

You don’t even need to leave the Big Smoke to discover some fabulous vineyards. In Auckland, you’re spoiled for choice with Villa Maria, Westbrook and Man O’ War each offering a vineyard-exploring opportunity. Being such a diverse region, Auckland also has some of the best winery restaurants in the county.

Villa Maria, Auckland

4. Gisborne

Gisborne is a fantastic, sun-soaked destination and the opportunities are numerous – Millton Vineyards & Winery and Matawhero Wines are both excellent for a visit. The sunny climate is part of the reason Gisborne boasts an ideal environment for producing fantastic wine. Whether you want to dive into history, hit the beach, drink wine, dine in style or gaze at the stars, you’ll always treasure your trip to ‘Gizzy’.

5. Hawke’s Bay

There are so many wonderful winery options in Hawke’s Bay, with Te Awa Estate, Lime Rock and Askerne each guaranteeing completely different experiences.  The region is home to one of two wineries named in the top 50 on the World’s Best Vineyards list – Craggy Range.

6. The Wairarapa

This compact and delightful wine region has an important wine history as well as excellent wines to sample. It’s great for scenic exploring, as you can tour the region by bicycle, walking or short drives. Make sure Colombo and Ata Rangi are on your list of cellar doors to hit!

Matahiwi Estate, Masterton

7. Nelson

In addition to Nelson’s vibrant artistic and cafe culture there’s an abundance of boutique wineries waiting to be discovered. Neudorf, Brightwater Vineyards and Himmelsfeld are just some that are offering remarkable wine experiences.

8. Marlborough

You can’t do a winery tour of the country without stopping by this dream destination for wine-lovers. There are so many options from the uber chic Cloudy Bay cellar door to Bladen Wines with its little tasting shed, great music and small, pretty garden. Be sure to visit Auntsfield, Clos Henri Vineyards and Framingham during your stay.

9. North Canterbury

North Canterbury’s Black Estate, Mount Beautiful and Waipara Hills are three of many great wineries in the region to welcome some vineyard foot traffic.

Black Estate, North Canterbury 

10. Central Otago

Central Otago has open arms to welcome you with many vineyard and wine tasting experiences. Cycle around Alexandra on your own wine tour, take in the incredible views and stop for a tasting and a wine conversation at Desert Heart or Akarua.

11. Waitaki Valley

This relatively new wine region is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets, and is home to a handful of adventurous and focused producers. Make your way around the region with a wine tour and stop by the cellar doors at River-T Estate and Osler.

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