New Zealand is a unique country because so many regions can support great wineries. The best place for high-quality grapes to grow is the intersection of a mellow subtropical climate and enriched soil.
Aotearoa is most well-known for the Marlborough region, a spot on the South Island that produces some of the highest-quality Sauvignon Blanc in the world. But that doesn’t mean the South Island has a monopoly on stunning wines.
As one of the top companies providing private campervan hires in NZ, wine tours are our bread and butter. So, we’d love to make some suggestions if you’re mapping yours out! Sit back, pour a glass, and relax as we take a tour through some of the best North Island wine regions.
What are the North Island Wine Regions?
New Zealand’s North Island has a signature climate, featuring a fairly mellow coastal climate and long sunshine hours. Long story short, this allows grapes to ripen slowly on the vine, deepening their flavour and producing a fruity, aromatic, bright wine.
If you’re planning a wine tour across the North Island in your campervan (safely, of course), there’s a ton of different regions you can string together:
• Northland: Known for rich, full-bodied wines.
• Auckland: One of the country’s oldest wine regions, with diverse production and plenty of high-quality wineries.
• Matakana: The epitome of small-town New Zealand, with a vibrant wine scene.
• Waiheke Island: Produces stunning red and white wines in the warm, dry summer climate.
• Waikato-Bay of Plenty: The moderately warm climate means this region mostly focuses on chardonnay.
• Gisborne: High sunshine, rich soil, and proximity to the sea make this one of the country’s most popular wine regions.
• Hawke’s Bay: Earned a robust international reputation for producing a variety of different wines.
As you can see, there are plenty of regions to choose from when mapping your caravan road trip. Below, we’ll highlight that last region, one of the most internationally recognised regions operating out of New Zealand. Let’s dive into Hawkes Bay’s wine spots you should check out.
Best Wineries in Hawkes Bay
Craggy Range
As one of the country’s top wine regions, is it any surprise that Hawke’s Bay plays host to one of New Zealand’s reigning top three wineries? The Craggy Range winery is family-owned, nestled comfortably in the shadow of Te Mata Peak, and absolutely stunning.
This space is intimate, comfortable, and a worthwhile way to spend your day. Craggy Estate has everything you need, whether you want to drop some cash at the in-house restaurant (a recipient of two hats) or take a load off for the night at their accommodation. Make sure to book well ahead of time, as this is a popular spot, especially in the warmer months!
Te Awanga Estate
There’s something really special about this place. Te Awanga has several different vineyards within close driving range of one another, each with a unique feel, making this a great spot to pull up for the day.
Te Awanga Estate is a beautiful estate with a chill, laidback vibe that makes it perfect for a day of relaxation. Pick up some of your favourite varietals from their bottle shop, or take a quick walk to their cellar door, nestled amid Te Awanga’s beautiful foothills.
Mission Estate Winery
New Zealand’s oldest winery, established in 1851 by pioneering French Missionaries, is definitely not to be missed. Stepping onto this estate feels like jumping into another world, one with rolling hills, stunning architecture, fountains, and manicured lawns.
On-site, they have a stunning French restaurant, a cellar door for wine and nibbles, and even on-site accommodation if you want the full experience.
Brookfields Vineyards
Looking for a boutique family winery with a warm, comfortable atmosphere and delicious wines? Brookfields is the spot for you. This vineyard perfectly balances a welcoming homestead and an idyllic winery. Spend a mellow day looking out over the vineyards while sipping an award-winning red.
Enjoy a simple wine-tasting tour or take a load off in their restaurant, which is actually run by a small catering team that creates a unique grazing-style menu perfect for enjoying alongside a glass.
As you can see, there are so many beautiful wineries to visit in the Hawke’s Bay region alone, not to mention the rest of the North Island! Whether you’re hitting the open road in a campervan or taking a quick trip to one winery in particular, you’ll end up somewhere that feels (and probably tastes) just a little bit like heaven.
Cheers!
Explore the North Island wineries your way with Kia Ora Campers.
Whether taking on North Island wineries or grabbing a motorhome hire in Christchurch to explore the South Island wineries, Kia Ora Campers is here to help. We have a range of high-quality, affordable 2, 3, and 4-berth motorhomes to explore. Curious about your options? Check out our range today.