World-class Wine and Cuisine

The regions covered below take you on a food pilgrimage from the islands’ tip to tail, showcasing the best luxury food and wine experiences in New Zealand.

Northland’s rolling hills, native bush and numerous bays and beaches are home to some of the nation’s finest culinary fare. The subtropical climes help the region produce medal-winning wines, tasty citrus, olives and succulent seafood.

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions and a fantastic place for lovers of quality food and fine wine. Blessed with long sunshine hours and fertile plains, it is one of New Zealand’s most productive growing regions.

The region’s love of food and wine is brought to the fore at FAWC! (Food and Wine Classic) - a fantastic seasonal festival taking place in both summer and winter celebrating local produce and artisan products.

Wairarapa is located in close proximity to Wellington and at the heart of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail that spans across four wine regions. While it has only 3% of New Zealand’s land under vine, Wairarapa boasts some of the country’s most iconic producers.

Its internationally acclaimed wines are boutique in style and intensely flavoured. Wairarapa produces a wide range of varietals, but is noted most for its Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and aromatics.

Lying at the top of the South Island, the region of Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest producer of wine, in particular Sauvignon Blanc. There are many outstanding wineries in this region, with the excellent Cloudy Bay Vineyard drawing in discerning wine buffs from around the world.

Marlborough is also known for its green-lipped mussels. These unique marine delicacies are best enjoyed aboard a boat in the sounds, where they are served straight from the farm with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc to match.

Benefiting from a sunny, maritime climate, the picturesque valley vineyards of Nelson Tasman yield some of New Zealand’s most freshly scented, intensely flavoured Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, as well as vibrant, supple pinot noir.

Even though it is among the smaller wine regions of the country, Nelson Tasman’s wines are internationally acclaimed for their high quality. Its winemakers are recognised for crafting wonderfully drinkable wines that stand apart from the typical commercial styles.

No culinary visit to New Zealand’s South Island is complete without sampling the delectable crayfish in Kaikoura. While visiting this bustling seafood haven, make sure you stay at the unique Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses.

As you head further south through Canterbury, be sure to try the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and fine aromatic wines from vineyards in Waimate, Cheviot and the Waipara Valley.

The region of Otago is known for its spectacular vineyards, perfectly situated among lakes and gorges and surrounded by mountains.

Sip wines from top wineries like Mt Edward Winery, Two Paddocks or Brennan Wines and appreciate the effect of the landscape on the flavour and body of award-winning Pinot Noirs – especially by the fireplace after an adventurous day of skiing.

Further explore New Zealand's regional Sip, Dine, Stay and Play wine experiences by clicking here.