Vintrail Discovery
New Zealand Wine Country
New Zealand
New Zealand is a stunningly beautiful country that is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
In this guide:
What are the New Zealand wine regions
New Zealand is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural scene, but it's also becoming known for its high-quality wines. Here are some of the most notable wine regions in New Zealand:
​
-
Marlborough: Located at the northeastern tip of the South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand's largest and most famous wine region. Known for its sunny and dry climate, Marlborough is the birthplace of New Zealand's iconic Sauvignon Blanc, and the region also produces high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. With its scenic vineyards and tasting rooms, Marlborough is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in New Zealand wine.
​
-
Hawke's Bay: Located on the east coast of the North Island, Hawke's Bay is one of New Zealand's oldest wine regions and is known for its warm and sunny climate. The region produces a range of high-quality red and white wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, and is home to several well-established wineries and tasting rooms.
​
-
Central Otago: Located at the southern end of the South Island, Central Otago is New Zealand's southernmost wine region and is known for its stunning scenery and challenging growing conditions. Despite its cool and windy climate, Central Otago is home to a growing wine industry and produces high-quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris.
​
-
Waipara: Located in the North Canterbury region of the South Island, Waipara is a rapidly growing wine region that is known for its warm and sunny climate. With its rolling hills and lush vineyards, Waipara is a beautiful place to visit and is home to a growing number of wineries and tasting rooms. The region produces a range of high-quality red and white wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
​
-
Waiheke Island: Located in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland, Waiheke Island is a small but growing wine region that is known for its scenic beauty and relaxed vibe. With its sunny and warm climate, Waiheke Island is well suited for growing a range of grape varieties, and the island's winemakers are producing high-quality red and white wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
​
Tips and Recommendations
-
Plan your itinerary: New Zealand is a big country and you may not be able to cover everything in one trip, so it's important to plan ahead. Consider your interests and budget when deciding what to include in your itinerary.
​
-
Get active: New Zealand is a nature lover's paradise, so get out and explore. Hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and skiing are just a few of the many outdoor activities available.
​
-
Visit the National Parks: New Zealand has 14 national parks that are home to stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Some of the most popular include Fiordland National Park, Tongariro National Park, and Abel Tasman National Park.
​
-
Experience Maori Culture: New Zealand's indigenous Maori culture is rich and vibrant, and there are many opportunities to learn about and experience it, such as visiting a Marae (a traditional Maori meeting house), attending a Hangi feast, or watching a performance of the Haka dance.
​
-
Try the local cuisine: New Zealand's cuisine is diverse and reflects the country's multicultural heritage. Some must-try dishes include fish and chips, pavlova, meat pies, and lamb.
​
-
Enjoy the wines: New Zealand is known for its wine, and there are many wine regions to explore, including Marlborough, Hawke's Bay, and Central Otago.
​
-
Take a road trip: New Zealand's roads are well-maintained, and driving is an easy and convenient way to get around the country. Renting a car or campervan is a great way to explore the country's stunning scenery.
​
-
Visit Milford Sound: This is a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Zealand. The breathtaking fjords and waterfalls are truly a sight to behold.
​
-
Visit the beaches: New Zealand has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Popular beach destinations include the Bay of Islands, Mount Maunganui, and Coromandel Peninsula.
​
-
Explore the cities: New Zealand's cities are vibrant and full of life, so be sure to explore them during your trip. Visit Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch to see the best that the country has to offer.