The Only Wine Trail Guide You Need to Discover New Zealand Wines

New Zealand has been known as "God’s own Country" since the early 1800s, and why wouldn’t it be called so? It’s world-renowned for its national rugby team, the soulful Maoriculture, and the photographic landscapes. The richness of life flows through every street and circle, calling to explorers from all walks of life. You absolutely have to experience the wine culture in New Zealand, to begin with. Wine Trail New Zealand are the perfect way to enjoy beautiful vineyards, buzzing nightlife, and a dégustation of food and wine that reawakens your palette from within.

Picking what part of a country to explore can be tricky and looking for opinions is tiresome. Save yourself some trouble because you have found what you were looking for! Here I give you the only wine trail guide you need to taste the best wine heritage of New Zealand, centered around Auckland.

1. Kumeu District

Kumeu is the original home of immigrants from the Dalmation coast of Croatia, many of whom were part of the traditional winegrowing families. It is home to some of the most sought-after labels such as Kumeu River, Cooper’s Creek, and Soljan Estate Winery known for their scintillating Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc wines.

2. Huapai

Often paired with the Kume? district, Huapai houses some excellent wine houses. Matua Valley Wines – which has become somewhat of a national label has its original winery nearby. It is one of New Zealand’s top six wine companies and historically significant because it produced the country’s first Sauvignon Blanc in 1974.

3. Waimauku

Approximately 4 kilometers west of Huapai, begin your day by visiting the Muriwai black-sand beach overlooking the majestic Tasman Sea. You will come across some of the finest family-owned and operated wineries like The Hunting Lodge, Mazuran, and Babich. A luxurious overnight stay at Vineyard New Zealand is exactly what you will need to rest up for the next day.

4. Matakana

This east coast paradise is a popular getaway for locals and explorers alike. Experience the magic of the local Matakana Farmers’ market where stalls are chalked full of artisan cheeses, craft beer, and fragrant olive oils. Afterward, let yourself go among the amazingly delicious varieties of Pinot Gris, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Treat yourself to a relaxed gourmet dinner under the vast star-lit night and enjoy.

Although you can manage to visit all these spots on your own by renting a car or taking public transportation, getting around New Zealand can be extremely efficient and budget-friendly if you choose to sign up for wine trail tours with Wine Trail New Zealand. They realize that all the options, regions, strange names, etc can get a bit confusing when you’re not familiar with the area, so they help you optimize your time and select the best wineries to suit your needs, making for your dream tour.

Arushita Chadha is a final year student of Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communications at Chandigarh College of Engineering and Technology. She provides writing, editing services.