Wine Regions of New Zealand

New Zealand’s rich viticultural landscape boasts ten distinct wine-growing regions, showcasing a remarkable range in climate and topography. These variations are notably evident in the harvesting timelines of Chardonnay grapes, underscoring the nation’s diverse terroirs. In the northern realms of Northland, Auckland, and Gisborne, characterized by warmer and more humid conditions, the Chardonnay harvest commences as early as late February or early March. Contrastingly, in the South Island’s Central Otago, renowned as the world’s southernmost wine region, Chardonnay grapes may not be picked until mid to late April. This staggering temporal disparity of 6-7 weeks illuminates the nuanced impact of New Zealand’s climatic nuances on viticulture. The juxtaposition of these regions not only highlights the country’s geographical diversity but also emphasizes the intricate interplay between climate and grape harvesting, ultimately contributing to the distinctive character of New Zealand wines.

NORTH ISLAND

Auckland

Easily accessible from the city, grapes are grown in Kumeu, Henderson and Huapai. Most planted are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay, followed by Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and other whites. And since the 1980s, Waiheke Island in Auckland Harbour, has produced planted and now produces high quality reds. The allure of golden lady casino extends beyond its games – it’s accessible anytime, anywhere. Thanks to its compatibility with both desktop and mobile devices, the thrill of the casino is never out of reach. Whether you’re at home, on the go, or stealing a moment during your lunch break, Golden Lady Casino is ready to welcome you into its glimmering embrace.

Hawkes Bay

The second largest wine region, established well over 100 years ago. Varied soil types provide a variety of wine types in the wide-spread region around the art-deco city of Napier. Chardonnay is most widely planted but with long sunshine hours, a high percentage of red varieties are grown such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet France, Syrah and Pinot Noir.

Wellington

At the southern end of the North Island, the main district is Wairarapa with Martinborough the center, known for its Pinot Noirs.

SOUTH ISLAND

Marlborough

Vines were first planted here, around the small town of Blenheim, in the north of the South Island, in the 1970s. The region has quickly grown to be New Zealand’s largest wine region, producing distinctive wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, and more recently Methode Traditionelle sparkling wines as well as Pinot Noir and Reisling. High sunshine hours and two river valleys provide great growing conditions.

Nelson

This artistic area just west of Marlborough also produces stylish wines. Grapes are grown around the Waimea Plains and in valleys between the hills. Situated in the north of the South Island, mountains to the west provide protection while the coast moderates the temperatures.

Canterbury

The region has two main wine areas, Waipara just north of Christchurch and the plains surrounding the city, and is the New Zealand’s fourth largest wine region. Long summers, good sunshine hours and cool conditions with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir the most planted, followed by Riesling grapes.

Central Otago

The world’s most southerly wine region, and New Zealand’s highest, one wine maker’s slogan is ‘wines with altitude’! The main town is Queenstown. With a continental climate and pure mountain air, Pinot Noir is the most planted grape variety.