If you’re holidaying in Auckland, there’s no better way to rest and relax than taking a tour through its award-winning wine region.
Famed for Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, Auckland’s wineries offer visitors a great escape from the city smoke. Bask in the beautiful scenery, dine in world-class restaurants, explore the local towns and markets – and of course, enjoy the wine!
Here are our top picks for Auckland wine spots to visit during your stay:
Waiheke Island
Worth the visit even if you’re not a wine fan, the idyllic Waiheke Island is located just a short ferry ride away from central Auckland.
Easily explored in a day trip but best enjoyed over a leisurely weekend, Waiheke offers an abundance of world-class wineries for visitors to choose from. Book a wine tour to sample Waiheke’s finest Bordeaux style wines, dine at one of the award-winning restaurants and browse the island’s galleries and creative wares. Bliss.
Best paired with: An overnight bag
Getting there: 35-45 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland and Half Moon Bay
Matakana Coast
Considering its small size, Auckland’s Matakana wine region punches well above its weight.
Known for outstanding reds and stunning coastal scenery, Matakana is also host to some fantastic markets selling locally produced cheeses, honey, preserves and much more.
With so many vineyards to choose from, you’ll be hard pressed to pack everything this region has to offer into one day. Book a wine tour or try local favourites Hyperion Wines and Brick Bay.
Best paired with: A trip to vibrant seaside town Leigh – just 15 minutes’ drive from Matakana Village
Getting there: 1 hour by car from central Auckland
Kumeu
Boasting Auckland’s oldest winery, Kumeu blends top notch boutique wine and food with quaint country charm.
Kumeu’s wine heritage dates back to the 1930’s, and its historic vineyards are well known for their award-winning white wines.
If you’re visiting Kumeu during February it’s worth timing your trip with the Beer, Wine and Food Festival, where you can sample the region’s best wines alongside lively music and a fun festival vibe.
While you’re there, be sure to pay a visit to the gannet colony on picturesque Muriwai Beach. For outdoorsy folks, Woodhill Forest offers some great walking and bike tracks.
Best paired with: Lunch at The Riverhead – New Zealand’s oldest riverside tavern
Getting there: 30 minutes by car from central Auckland
