Auckland may be the largest city in New Zealand that attracts hordes of visitors to the country’s urban centre for commerce, entertainment, arts and tourism, but it lags behind the likes of Marlborough and Hawke’s Bay when it comes to internationally acclaimed wine production.
Nonetheless, seeking respite from the bustling city has become a popular pastime for visitors and with around 100 Auckland wineries within reach of the central business district – wine tours are an ideal way to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside across the uppermost part of the North IslandAt Wine Paths, our local expert can organise exclusive tours of the best wineries in Auckland, including elaborate tastings, luxury stays, fine dining experiences and some unique activities.
Some of the first vineyards in New Zealand were planted in Auckland in 1819, and the region is now home to several pioneering producers that have stood the test of time – including Babich, Brajkovich, Corbans, Delegat’s and Nobilo – as well some of the finest boutique vineyards Auckland has to offer.Auckland vineyards are spread out from the city across several major sub-regions, each with their own characteristics but united by volcanic, clay-rich soils that contribute towards a diverse range of wines.
Perhaps the most influential of these sub regions is Waiheke Island, which is also known as the ‘Island of Wine’ and can be reached within a 35-minute ferry ride from the city. Although only a small island, Waiheke has rapidly gained an international reputation for the quality of its Bordeaux style red wines, Chardonnay whites and some of the best wineries in Auckland.Waiheke was ranked the fifth best destination in the world to visit by the Lonely Planet in 2016, while also being voted the fourth best island in the world by Conde Nast.
Some of the first vineyards in New Zealand were planted in Auckland in 1819, and the region is now home to several pioneering producers that have stood the test of time – including Babich, Brajkovich, Corbans, Delegat’s and Nobilo – as well some of the finest boutique vineyards Auckland has to offer.Auckland vineyards are spread out from the city across several major sub-regions, each with their own characteristics but united by volcanic, clay-rich soils that contribute towards a diverse range of wines.
Waiheke Island
Among the 20 Auckland wineries on the island, the Stonyridge Vineyard, which was established in the early 1980s and has become renowned for producing world class Bordeaux blends by combining traditional wine making techniques with meticulous organic viniculture.Stonyridge’s 1987 Larose is still regarded as the greatest red wine ever to come from New Zealand, and has been enjoyed by royalty including Queen Elizabeth II and King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain – while the estate itself was referred to as ‘one of the top 10 must-visit wineries in the world’ by The Guardian UK.
To the west of the city, the inland region of Kumeu (which includes the sub-regions of Henderson Valley and Huapai) is home to the oldest Auckland vineyards – as well picturesque countryside settings scattered with fruit orchards. The elegant Chardonnay white wines from here are widely regarded among the country’s finest and Kumeu is also home to the head offices of several leading New Zealand wine brands, although not all have vineyards here.An hour north of Auckland are the rolling green hills of the Matakana region, which is known for welcoming wine tourists. The vines here are still relatively young but the sun kissed climate contributes towards some elegant red wines – typically Bordeaux blends using Cabernet Sauvignon, although Syrah, Malbec and Sangiovese are also successfully grown here.
If you are interested in exploring Auckland wineries, visit our New Zealand destination page for more information and inspirational ideas before planning a bespoke trip – all of our private tours can be tailor made to meet your exact requirements, ensuring every detail is taken care of so that you can relax and enjoy the matter at hand.
If you're interested in one of our New Zealand Wine Tours, please visit this link.
