Wine and Food

New Zealand food and wine has a style uniquely their own

Pacific Rim cuisine is a signature of New Zealand food combining European, Asian and Polynesian styles and ingredients. The country is also known for its quality beef, lamb and venison as well as fresh fish with some regional must haves such as paua, whitebait, trout, crayfish and oysters.

There is also a no fuss attitude about dining here with the barbeque being a favourite cooking tool for summer. Fish and chips on the beach are a requirement for a good time and you can’t leave the country without trying L&P and Hokey Pokey. Farmers Markets and road side orchards are abundant and traditional Maori cooking is not only good tasting but entertaining as well by taking in a Hangi and cultural show.

To wash down all that good food is the world famous New Zealand wine and lesser known but equally as tasty microbrews. The climate in New Zealand is perfect for producing some very distinct and award winning quality wines.

With such diverse landscapes, soil conditions and micro climates, New Zealand can produce a wide range of wines some of the more popular being Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Nelson is also the only region to grow hops and thus having an incredible craft beer culture. Microbreweries are setting up all over New Zealand with a variety of beers to choose from. You can taste the New Zealand freshness in every sip.

Wine Regions

Northland

Northland region has grapes that ripen early and make for some delicious Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay.

Okahu Estates has been producing award winning wines since 1984. They have won gold medals for their Chardonnay and Shiraz.
Longview Estate is the oldest running winery in Northland. Specialising in Chardonnay, Riesling and White Diamond

Auckland

Auckland is surrounded by areas of great wine making. Henderson and Kumeu to the northwest and the quaint Island of Waiheke is a wine lovers paradise. Waiheke Island is a renowned wine region that produces critically acclaimed artisan wines. This is a predominantly red wine region.

Villa Maria Estate – One of the largest and award winning wineries, started in 1961

Hawkes Bay

Hawkes Bay wine is one of New Zealand's largest and most respected wine region. The soil and climate produce a wide range of wine styles with Chardonnay being the most widely planted.

Vidal Winery and Restaurant – Brings the best of both worlds. Producing award winning Syrah and Chardonnay combined with gourmet dining.
Esk Valley Winery – One of the region’s best boutique wineries using traditional methods
Mission Estate Winery - Housed in an elegantly restored historic seminary building tours and dining is available year round.

Nelson

Nelson wineries are scattered throughout the region and feature Chardonnay, Savignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Noir.

Te Mania Winery – An award winner for their Sauvignon Blanc

Marlborough

Malborough wines gain worldwide attention particularly the Sauvignon Blanc. Soil conditions in this area are ideal to produce premium wines

Cloudy Bay Winery – A great place to visit with amazing wine tastings, food and gardens
Jackson Estate – 160 year old vineyard with award winning Pinot Noir
Wither Hills – Winner of the Air New Zealand Wine awards for their Sauvignon Blanc

Central Otago

Specialising in Pinot Noir, this is the world’s most southerly wine making region. Wine from Otago has purity in taste due to the fresh mountain air.

Mt Difficulty Wines – A combination of 6 vineyards makes for a variety of wine selections
Two Paddocks – A small family winery producing top quality wines