New Zealand
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New Zealand Wine Regions

8 wine regions to explore

New Zealand is home to 8 distinct wine regions, each with its own character, climate, and food culture. Whether you're drawn to bold reds, aromatic whites, or cool-climate elegance, Food and Wine Travel can build an itinerary that takes you to the right places — and the right producers — for your tastes.

Wine Region Map

Where in New Zealand?

Click any marker to explore that region.

All Regions

Auckland & Waiheke

Auckland & Waiheke

At the top of the North Island, combining Auckland's waterfront dining with Waiheke Island's vineyard-studded hills — an easy, stylish escape with a strong food scene.

Signature Grapes

SyrahChardonnayCabernet Sauvignon

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Central Otago

Central Otago

In the South Island's dramatic interior, Central Otago is a landscape of rugged mountains, clear lakes, and vineyards set under big skies — centred around Queenstown and Cromwell.

Signature Grapes

Pinot NoirPinot GrisChardonnay

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Gisborne

Gisborne

On the North Island's east coast, Gisborne is sunny, laid-back, and proudly local — known for beaches, fresh produce, and a quietly impressive wine scene.

Signature Grapes

ChardonnayGewürztraminerPinot Gris

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Hawke's Bay

Hawke's Bay

On the North Island's east coast, Hawke's Bay is a sun-drenched region of vineyards, art deco charm, and farm-to-table dining — centred around Napier and Havelock North.

Signature Grapes

SyrahMerlotCabernet Sauvignon

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Marlborough

Marlborough

At the top of the South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand's best-known wine region — sunny days, crisp air, and vineyard valleys near Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds.

Signature Grapes

Sauvignon BlancPinot NoirChardonnay

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Nelson

Nelson

Near the top of the South Island, Nelson is a sunny, creative region with beaches, national parks, and boutique vineyards — small, scenic, and wonderfully relaxed.

Signature Grapes

Pinot NoirChardonnaySauvignon Blanc

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Waipara / Canterbury

Waipara / Canterbury

Just north of Christchurch, Waipara is a cool-climate valley framed by rolling hills — known for elegant Pinot Noir and beautifully aromatic whites.

Signature Grapes

Pinot NoirRieslingChardonnay

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Wairarapa

Wairarapa

At the southern end of the North Island, Wairarapa (including Martinborough) is an easy countryside escape from Wellington — vineyard villages, olive groves, and a strong boutique wine culture.

Signature Grapes

Pinot NoirSauvignon BlancChardonnay

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Want to visit New Zealand's wine regions?

Food and Wine Travel designs itineraries around the regions and producers that suit you best. Let's talk about what your ideal New Zealand wine journey looks like.