The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail: Unforgettable Wine and Food Experiences
Compiled by Claire Williams / Photos courtesy Classic New Zealand Wine Trail
The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail (classicwinetrail.co.nz) encompasses three principal wine regions: Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa, and Marlborough. Together, these regions account for over eighty percent of the country's wine production and provide wine enthusiasts access to 230 wineries and 120 cellar doors. This 240-mile, sign-posted self-guided journey is ideal for a five to ten-day trip and takes visitors along the East Coast of New Zealand, from Hawke's Bay in the North Island to Marlborough in the South Island. Along the route, you'll find 155 EV charging stations and myriad accommodation options to suit every traveler, from luxury lodges and boutique B&Bs to serviced apartments and historic cottages.
As an official Great Wine Capital of the World, Hawke's Bay is graced with a Mediterranean climate and scores farmer's markets sharing the bounty of the region's fertile farmland. The Te Matau-a-Māui region is the country's leading producer of red wine, including full-bodied red blends, and syrah, cabernet, and merlot varieties. In addition to more than 70 wineries, you can explore the highest concentration of Art Deco buildings in the world, which were constructed in Napier City after the devastating earthquake of 1931.
At the heart of the wine trail is Wellington (wellingtonnz.com), sandwiched between verdant rolling hills and a bustling harbor, where a vibrant culinary scene thrives alongside locally made craft beer. For wine lovers, many stylish wine bars and award-winning restaurants feature curated selections of local and international wines. Ascend nearly 400 feet above the city aboard the Wellington Cable Car (wellingtoncablecar.co.nz), which departs from Lambton Quay, the main shopping street. Don't miss the chance to visit Wētā Workshop (wetanz.com) for a behind-the-scenes look at the acclaimed film effects company responsible for productions such as The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, and King Kong, among others. Test your nerve by traversing a 230-foot-long suspension bridge at Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park (makarapeak.bike).
Mākara Peak Mountain Bike Park (makarapeak.bike).
The Wairarapa region, just over the hill from Wellington, is home to several boutique wine areas spread among five character-rich towns and arguably the most accessible Dark Sky Reserve in the world. Set against a spectacular backdrop of Wairarapa's rolling countryside, The Runholder (therunholder.co.nz) is the home of Te Kairanga, Martinborough Vineyard wines, and Lighthouse Gin. The picturesque spot is a convenient destination for great food, wine, and gin in Martinborough.
The picturesque spot is a convenient destination for great food, wine, and gin in Martinborough at The Runholder.
The thoughtfully preserved Victorian country village of Greytown, located in Wairarapa, is one of New Zealand's premier shopping destinations. It boasts a sophisticated combination of independent boutiques, galleries, stylish stores, restaurants, and cafés.
Marlborough is a foodie haven, accessible via the Interislander ferry (interislander.co.nz), often described as one of the most spectacular cruises in the world. Once there, you can fish and kayak the beautiful waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. Known for producing some of the world's finest Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is New Zealand's largest wine region, with 168 wineries. Pair your glass of "liquid sunshine" with freshly steamed Greenshell mussels, rated as one of the most sustainable seafood products in the world.
Consider taking the Coastal Pacific Train to extend your adventure after finishing the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail in Marlborough. Constructed over seven decades and renowned for being one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand railways, this scenic trip meanders along the Pacific Coast between Picton and Christchurch, offering breathtaking views that are hard to match by any other means of transport.
So, grab your friends or family and prepare for a fantastic adventure filled with outstanding wines, delicious food, and breathtaking views throughout the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Cheers!