New Zealand is not only known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures but also for its exceptional wines. With its cool climate and diverse terroir, the country has become a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and those who are simply curious about exploring the intricate flavours of different varietals. From the rolling vineyards on Waiheke Island to the picturesque wineries of Queenstown, each region boasts its own distinct charm and character. So, grab a glass and join us on a journey to discover the best wine-tasting spots in New Zealand.
Auckland, one of the oldest wine regions in New Zealand, boasts over 100 vineyards and wineries. The region is famous for its collection of Bordeaux-style wines, including a diverse range of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and chardonnay.
Mudbrick Vineyard (image sourced from AucklandNZ)
One of the most popular vineyards for wine tasting in Auckland is Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant. Situated on Waiheke Island, Mudbrick offers stunning views of Auckland's skyline and produces exquisite Bordeaux-style blends and Chardonnay. Another notable winery on Waiheke Island is Stonyridge Vineyard. Known for its iconic Larose blend, Stonyridge is a must-visit for lovers of premium red wines and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Once you’ve tried wine tasting in Auckland, be sure to explore the many other attractions and activities in the area.
After a day of exploring the exquisite wine scene, why not enhance your visit by staying at one of our holiday parks in Auckland? Situated just a 30-minute drive from Auckland, on the stunning Hibiscus Coast, our Red Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a range of well-maintained amenities, including a games room, kids' playground, BBQ area, and shared bathroom and kitchen. Alternatively, you can choose to relax at our tranquil Orere Point TOP 10 Holiday Park, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning scenery.
With its warm climate and fertile soils, Hawke’s Bay produces some of New Zealand's finest wines. Known for its elegant red blends, Hawkes Bay is a must-visit destination for wine tasting and is often the start of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Definitely make sure you try the velvety merlot, flavourful syrah, and intense pinot noir. The region also produces a wide variety of white wines that are worth exploring while you are out and about wine tasting in Hawkes Bay. These include full-bodied chardonnay, oak-infused sauvignon blanc, and aromatic pinot gris, which can be found at numerous cellar doors.
Our favourite spot for wine tasting in Napier is Mission Estate Winery, New Zealand's oldest winery, established in 1851. Take a tour of the estate and learn about its fascinating history before indulging in a tasting of its premium wines. Other popular vineyards and cellars in Napier include Church Road Winery, The Urban Winery, and Crab Farm Winery.
Craggy Range (image sourced from Tourism New Zealand)
Another one of the top wineries in Hawkes Bay is Craggy Range, famous for its “Les Beaux Cailloux” Chardonnay, “Sophia” Merlot, “The Quarry” Bordeaux Blend, “Aroha” Pinot Noir and “Le Sol” Syrah. Enjoy a tasting at their cellar door while admiring the breathtaking vineyard views. For a unique wine tasting at Hawkes Bay, head to Elephant Hill Winery. Not only will you have the opportunity to sample their award-winning wines, but you can also enjoy a gourmet meal at their exquisite restaurant.
After a day of indulging in the finest wines at renowned vineyards and wineries, retreat to the tranquillity of our Napier Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park or Hastings TOP 10 Holiday Park, where you can unwind amidst picturesque surroundings and modern amenities. Whether you choose to relax in a cosy cabin or pitch your tent under the starlit sky, our parks provide the perfect base after wine tasting in Napier, Hastings, and other areas in Hawkes Bay.
Located just a short drive from Wellington, Martinborough is a small wine region that packs a punch. Known for its exceptional pinot noir, Martinborough is a wine lover's paradise.
Recognised as one of New Zealand's leading pinot noir producers, Ata Rangi is a must-visit destination. Situated in Martinborough, this small, family-owned organic winery offers intimate tastings of its acclaimed wines, which showcase the region's unique terroir and character. With its elegant wines and picturesque vineyard setting, Palliser Estate will be one of the highlights of your wine tasting in Martinborough. Sample their range of pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, and other varietals and learn from the experts about winemaking, its history, and the land.
Margrain Vineyard (image sourced from WellingtonNZ)
Want lunch and a glass of wine? There are several cellar doors that not only offer exceptional wine tasting in Martinborough but also provide the perfect setting for a delicious lunch amidst the vineyards. Be sure to make a booking at these cellars before you go: Poppies Martinborough, Tiwaiwaka Wines, Moy Hall, Luna Estate, Margrain Vineyard, Tirohana Estate, Colombo Martinborough, and The Runholder.
After indulging in the delights of Martinborough's finest wineries, there's no better way to complete your adventure than by unwinding at Martinborough TOP 10 Holiday Park. Located just a grape’s throw away from award-winning cellar doors and restaurants, our holiday park provides a range of camping sites and roofed accommodations.
Nestled just an hour's drive away from Martinborough, our Wellington TOP 10 Holiday Park offers the perfect retreat after a day of wine tastings. Our spacious grounds cater to families, couples, business guests, and groups of all sizes, providing ample parking and a diverse range of camping sites, motels, and cabins.
Neudorf Vineyards (image sourced from Nelson Tasman)
Blessed with abundant sunshine and fertile soils, Nelson is renowned for its white wines: sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. Neudorf Vineyards, nestled in the Moutere Hills, is a must-visit spot for wine tasting in Nelson. Sample their range of aromatic whites and elegant Pinot Noir while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Another notable winery in Nelson is Seifried Estate, one of New Zealand's oldest family-owned wineries. Take a tour of their vineyards and cellar doors, and taste their award-winning wines, including their renowned Gewürztraminer and Riesling.
After savouring Nelson's finest wines, why not stay at Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park, Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park, or Pohara Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park? Our parks are conveniently located near top wineries in Nelson and close to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, making them the perfect base for your adventures. From campsites to self-contained units, find your perfect spot. Our friendly team is here to assist with local tips and tour bookings. Book your stay today and make the most of your outdoor adventure and wine tasting in Nelson.
While primarily known for its stunning scenery and cultural attractions, Christchurch also boasts a burgeoning wine scene. From the Canterbury Plains to the Banks Peninsula, visitors can explore cellar doors and vineyard restaurants, sampling a range of varietals, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Just a short drive from the city, you'll find the Waipara Valley, a wine region known for its cool climate wines. Pegasus Bay Winery is one of the top wineries in the area, offering a range of aromatic whites, pinot noir, and Bordeaux-style reds. Take a guided tour of the vineyards and indulge in a tasting of their exceptional wines.
Greystone Wines (image sourced from ChristchurchNZ)
Another gem in the Waipara Valley, Greystone Wines offers visitors the opportunity to taste premium pinot noir, chardonnay, and riesling, indulge in cheese platters, and savour delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Another notable cellar for wine tasting in Christchurch is Black Estate, which is known for its organic and biodynamic approach to winemaking. Sample their unique Canterbury-grown pinot noir and enjoy the beautiful views from their cellar door.
Experience the best of the Garden City, from wine tasting at Christchurch wineries to exploring the stunning coastline and engaging in outdoor adventures, by staying at Christchurch Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park or Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park. Both holiday parks offer stunning sea views, modern amenities, and a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you prefer the comfort of cabins or units, or the freedom of powered and unpowered camping sites, you'll find the perfect place to relax and unwind. Book your seaside retreat today and discover the diverse range of wine this region has to offer.
Rippon Vineyard (image sourced from Lake Wanaka)
In Wanaka, a picturesque town nestled in New Zealand's Southern Alps, you'll find several exceptional wine-tasting spots to delight your palate. Rippon Vineyard, situated on the shores of Lake Wanaka, is a must-visit spot. Enjoy a tasting of their organic wines while soaking in the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Another notable cellar for wine tasting in Wanaka is Maude Wines, which is known for its elegant pinot noir and aromatic whites. Visit their cellar door and sample their range of wines, including their limited-release single vineyard wines.
After indulging in wine tasting in Wanaka, retreat to our Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park. Our cosy units and motel rooms, as well as fully equipped camping sites, ensure a comfy stay for our guests. From skiing in winter to hiking in summer, Wanaka's diverse seasons provide endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. We can’t wait to see you at our Wanaka holiday park.
Queenstown, known for its adventure activities and stunning landscapes, is also home to some fantastic wineries. Often referred to as the ‘Valley of the Vines', Gibbston in Queenstown is one of the most visually stunning wine regions in New Zealand. The Queenstown and Gibbston regions consistently produce exceptional wines that have garnered worldwide attention and a plethora of international awards.
Whether you want to stroll through the vineyards, bike from one winery to the next, or fancy hopping onto a wine tour bus, both Queenstown and Gibbston definitely offer experiences for all tastes.
Amisfield (image sourced from Tourism New Zealand)
Amisfield is our favourite winery in Queenstown. Its cellar door is housed in an exquisite stone structure that beautifully merges with the Central Otago scenery. Renowned for its pinot noirs and whites, Amisfield is also well known as one of Queenstown’s finest dining spots. To enhance your wine tasting Queenstown trip, treat yourself to their wine pairing menu.
You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to have heard of Gibbston Valley Winery. Take a tour of the oldest vineyard in the region and the largest wine cave in New Zealand. And don’t forget to taste their award-winning pinot noir while enjoying a unique taste of Central Otago at their onsite restaurant.
Chard Farm (image sourced from Tourism New Zealand)
In addition to Amisfield Winery and Gibbston Valley Winery, there are many other excellent wine tasting spots, including Kinross Winery & Cellar Door, Chard Farm, Mt. Rosa Winery, Peregrine Wines, and Mora Wines, each offering unique and memorable wine tasting Queenstown experiences for their guests.
Experience the best of Queenstown's wine country while enjoying the comfort and convenience of staying at our Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park or Kingston TOP 10 Holiday Park. Both parks offer a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, including comfortable motel units, ensuite log cabins, powered sites, and tent sites.
New Zealand's wine regions offer a diverse range of wines and exceptional tasting experiences. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual wine lover, exploring the vineyards and cellar doors of New Zealand is an experience not to be missed. From the cool climate wines of Auckland to the world-class Pinot Noir of Martinborough, there is something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit around New Zealand, taste the finest wines, and create unforgettable memories at TOP 10 Holiday Parks.