Exploring famous wine regions of Auckland

Auckland, best known as the City of Sails, is renowned for its amazing food and wine scene in New Zealand. This most cosmopolitan and largest city is also a cultural hotspot in the country. It is the place where you will get to see and know about the lifestyles, customs, festivals, language and food of Europeans, Asians and indigenous Maori people closely. The city is undoubtedly a fascinating place to get an insight into different worlds simultaneously.

If you are a foodie, then Auckland is the place you shouldn’t miss out visiting in any case. The city is veritably a food lover’s paradise. It is home to several award-winning wineries, world-class chefs, winemakers and food producers. Let us now explore the famous wine regions in the city. These include Waiheke Island, Matakana,Kumeu, and Central Auckland. These wine regions are a must-visit on every tourist’s itinerary, and surely a Mecca for foodies.

Kumeu
Kumeu is the oldest wine region in Auckland. It is located to the west of the city and can be reached within 30 minutes drive from the city centre. While in Kumeu, get ready to enjoy freshly brewed craft beers at the nearby brewery. You can also enjoy wine tasting here. This is also the best place to discover the country’s oldest riverside tavern, where you can enjoy drinks and a hearty meal overlooking the water. The region’s many vineyards are also worth exploring, and so are the gannet colonies at Muriwai and the spectacular cliff tops.

Matakana
The Matakana region is renowned for its boutique vineyards and superb wineries set amidst rolling countryside. It is only 45 minutes drive to the north of the city. You can just call in at the cellar doors for an enjoyable wine tasting session. You may also consider a leisurely lunch at one of the vineyard restaurants as well. The Matakana region is also famous for its bustling Saturday Farmers’ Market, where condiments, gourmet food, fresh produce and more are available. You can explore this region either on your own or on a guided tour. Don’t forget to enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Pakiri and Tawharanui along the way.

Waiheke Island
The beautiful Waiheke Island is renowned as “the island of wine”. You can take a 35-miunte ferry ride across the harbor from downtown Auckland to reach here. Waiheke Island is home to around 30 vineyards and boutique wineries. You will also find here locally grown produce, olive oils and handmade specialty foods. You will also love spending time at one of the many award-winning restaurants and enjoy fine wines. While at Waiheke Island, you can also consider taking a guided tour of the vineyards and award-winning wineries and look forward to a sightseeing and relaxed wine tasting experience.

Central Auckland
The Central Auckland and its inner suburbs have much to offer to all those visiting the city to enjoy their holidays. The popular waterside precincts Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter offer a wide choice of restaurants and cafés. The stylish Britomart precinct is also ready to welcome you with its eclectic bars and eateries. You can also visit the City Works Depot or Federal Street for some fabulous food and craft beer with a unique kiwi twist.

For all those who are wine lovers or passionate foodies, exploring these popular wine regions is surely the best way to rediscover the city, its fine wines and superb cuisines.