Your Guide to Vineyard Exploring in Tairāwhiti

Embark on a delightful journey through the vineyards of the Tairāwhiti region, where wine enthusiasts are treated to a symphony of flavours at some of New Zealand's finest wineries. Do you have a group wanting to explore the range of wineries on offer? The team at Experience Gisborne will help curate the perfect cycle or van tour.  

The cellar doors at the boutique wineries dotted throughout the region are open and ready to welcome you for a tasting, a long lunch, and of course to share their love of wine with you!

WRIGHTS VINEYARD & WINERY

Wrights Vineyard & Winery is renowned for its historic Syrah and Chardonnay plantings, the oldest in New Zealand. With additional varieties like Pinot Gris, Zinfandel, and Sauvignon Blanc, it’s a must-visit for wine lovers. The family-friendly Cellar Door offers guided tours and tastings, plus live music most weekends. For a special experience, try the ‘Build Your Own Picnic’ option, selecting gourmet treats for a memorable picnic surrounded by vines. 

Cellar Door Opening Hours:

Open Tuesday -Friday 12pm - 2pm & Saturday 12pm-4pm. 

You’ll also find them at the Farmers Market on Saturdays from 9:30am – 12:30pm.

Website: wrightswines.co.nz

MATAWHERO WINES

Just 10 minutes south of Gisborne, Matawhero Wines offers a perfect wine-tasting experience among the vines and olive trees. Enjoy gourmet platters paired with their dry-farmed wines, known for rich, intense flavors. The Irwin Chardonnay is a standout, while the award-winning Pinot Rosé is perfect on a warm day.

Explore the underground cellar, home to vintage Matawhero wines and iconic New Zealand selections. For a truly immersive experience, stay in their luxury cabins, offering an unforgettable winery retreat. 

Cellar Door Opening Hours: 

Open Wednesday - Friday 12pm - 3.30pm. Saturday & Sunday 12pm-4pm.  

Website: matawhero.co.nz

BUSHMERE ESTATE

Bushmere Estate Wines is a family-owned Gisborne winery,  specializing in Chardonnay and crafting exceptional wines. The 17-hectare vineyard also grows Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Gris, and more. Enjoy a fine dining experience at The Vines restaurant, where fresh local produce is expertly prepared by talented chefs.

Open for lunch Wednesday to Sunday (11am–3pm), with dinner available by arrangement for special occasions and private functions.

Website: https://www.bushmerevines.co.nz/

TW WINES

TW Wines are meticulously crafted along The Golden Slope, Gisborne's own Côte d'Or. Since their first vintage in 1998, they've earned over 40 national and international awards, celebrated for their power, complexity, and elegance.

During summer, enjoy exclusive vineyard tours and private wine tastings, offering a personal look at the vineyard’s history from the winemakers themselves. To arrange a tasting, contact Geordie at 021 222 0135 or Paul at 021 864 818.

Website: twwines.co.nz

THE GISBORNE WINE CENTRE

Short on time but still want to experience Gisborne’s best? Visit the Gisborne Wine Centre, the city’s top wine cellar and tasting room, offering guided tastings of the region’s finest wines, perfect for grabbing a couple of bottles before you go. Don’t miss the Crawford Road Kitchen on-site for a delicious dinner selection to round out your visit!

Website: gisbornewinecentre.co.nz

GISBORNE WINE MAP

Download the Gisborne Wine Map for a detailed map and more information about each of our local wineries.

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