🥂 Discover the Wine Regions of Aotearoa – New Zealand

Aotearoa is home to some of the world’s most stunning wines, thanks to our long sunshine hours, varied microclimates and passionate winemakers. While Marlborough often steals the international spotlight with its vibrant Sauvignon Blancs, there are incredible wine experiences across both Te Ika-a-Māui (North Island) and Te Waipounamu (South Island) especially when explored by campervan. Regions like Central Otago, known for its bold reds, Hawke’s Bay, with its elegant varietals and Martinborough, a small village punching well above its weight, are just a taste of what’s to come (we’ll dive deeper into these later in the blog).

🧺 A Personal Note from Us

We’ve always had a soft spot for a good Pinot Noir, and Aotearoa produces some absolute beauties. Labels like Rabbit Ranch, Mysterious Diggings and Roaring Meg are among our favourites, perfect for those lazy afternoons shared with friends. Pair them with a spread of locally made cheeses, seasonal fruits and good company, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect afternoon.

One of the things we love most about travelling by campervan is the freedom to park up near a vineyard, unload the bikes and go exploring. Some wineries even offer on-site accommodation or camper-friendly parking, so you can stay a little longer and soak it all in.

🍇 Why Do New Zealand Wines Feel So Strong?

If you’ve ever wondered why a couple of glasses of red in Aotearoa can hit harder than the same pour overseas, you’re not alone — we’ve asked that question too. While travelling through Europe, we noticed we could sip on a few glasses of red without feeling light-headed. But back home? One or two and we’re done.

We learned from a local winemaker that New Zealand wines often have more pronounced tannins and a slightly higher alcohol content, especially in reds like Pinot Noir and Syrah. This comes down to our sunshine-rich climate, which ripens grapes more fully, resulting in richer, bolder wines. Our winemaking techniques also favour clarity and intensity, giving you a deeper, more robust glass.

So when you’re out tasting, especially in warmer regions, remember to pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and if you’re touring by campervan, make sure someone stays sober for the drive.

🏔️ South Island Wine Regions

From alpine valleys to rugged coastlines, the South Island offers some of Aotearoa’s most dramatic wine landscapes. With cooler temperatures, long daylight hours and distinct regional microclimates, this part of the motu is best known for producing vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, silky Pinot Noir and expressive aromatic whites.

While Marlborough may lead the charge globally, regions like Central Otago, Waipara, and Nelson are carving out their own identity with boutique vineyards and bold experimentation. Travelling by campervan here means wine tasting with mountain views, lakeside picnics and some of the most scenic drives you’ll ever take between cellar doors.

❄️ Central Otago – Dramatic Landscapes, Unforgettable Pinot Noir

We’re starting in the south with our absolute favourite wine region — Central Otago. With its bold landscapes, unforgettable Pinot Noirs and laid-back cellar doors, it’s a place that keeps calling us back. It only felt right to begin the journey here. Otago sits at the southernmost tip of New Zealand and boasts some of the world’s most compelling cool‑climate Pinot Noir—rich, perfumed and bursting with mountain fruit. Its continental climate—warm days, cool nights, long ripening seasons and rocky, stony soils makes for wines with clarity, structure and depth

Why we love Central Otago:

• Wines that are vibrant yet elegant thanks to long sunshine hours, dramatic temperature swings and mineral-rich soils.
• The landscape is as bold as the wines—pine-crested ridges, alpine lakes and Gold Rush-era towns make it feel cinematic.

Top wineries around Bannockburn and Cromwell — home to our picks:

• Rabbit Ranch – A playful and approachable Pinot Noir celebrating the region’s terroir. Its fruit-forward, low-tannin style is meant to be savoured immediately — perfect for relaxed tasting in the sun.
• Terra Sancta Winery – Mysterious Diggings Pinot Noir – Grown on high, rocky Bannockburn terrain, this juicy, fragrant Pinot is light on grip but rich in floral, red berry intensity. Truly a “dreamboat” wine.
• Mt Difficulty – Roaring Meg Pinot Noir – Bold and vibrant with dark cherry and wild thyme notes. Roaring Meg is a crowd-pleaser and one of the most accessible expressions of Bannockburn’s character.

Top wineries around Gibbston — the gateway to Central Otago:

• Two Paddocks – Founded by actor Sam Neill, this certified organic winery produces beautifully expressive Pinot Noir from several Otago sub-regions, including Gibbston.
• Mt Rosa – Rustic charm meets serious wine. Known for bold Pinot Noir and vibrant Pinot Gris with a relaxed tasting room in a former woolshed.
• Gibbston Valley Winery – Home to one of the region’s oldest vineyards and an underground wine cave. Offers tastings, bike hire and a restaurant perfect for long lunches.
• Peregrine Wines – Striking architecture and award-winning Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Strong sustainability values and a stunning setting.

Why wine lovers and campervan travellers adore Central Otago:

• Stunning drives and cycle trails, including the Lake Dunstan Trail and the historic Bannockburn steam incline walk.
• Many vineyards offer cellar door visits close to Cromwell or Bannockburn, with some nearby freedom camping spots or boutique stays.
• Unique gold‑rush history, ancient geology and wilderness on tap—tasting here feels like an immersive escape.

🍃 Marlborough – The Sauvignon Blanc Stronghold

Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest and most famous wine region, thanks to one grape in particular: vibrant Sauvignon Blanc. Its crisp acidity, tropical fruit aromas and zesty finish helped put Aotearoa on the global wine map and it still defines the standard.

Situated at the top of the South Island, Marlborough also produces elegant Pinot Noir, Riesling and sparkling wines, especially in cooler subregions. It’s a campervan-friendly paradise with gentle cycle paths, riverside trails and friendly cellar doors perfect for tastings and leisurely meals.

Winery highlights include:

• Cloudy Bay – One of the original pioneers with an elegant cellar door and garden setting that never disappoints.
• Wither Hills – Great food paired with panoramic vineyard views, ideal for lunchtime wind‑down.
• Allan Scott – A welcoming, family-run affair, excellent wines and a relaxed outdoor restaurant.
• Spy Valley Wines – Eco-conscious, beautiful Waihopai Valley setting and bright whites that shine.
• Framingham Wines – Known for super expressive Riesling and creative events like live music pop-ups.

Travelling by campervan is easy here, with plenty of campsites and holiday parks located close to the wine trail. Some wineries even offer on-site boutique stays, making it easy to linger under the vines and truly unwind.

🌟 Nelson & Abel Tasman – Sunshine, Sea Breezes & Boutique Wine

Nelson is a wine gem nestled at the top of the South Island, offering warm sunshine hours, coastal microclimates and a tight-knit community of family-run vineyards and artisan winemakers. On the fringes of this region lies Abel Tasman National Park, a natural paradise of golden beaches and forest walks perfect to pair with wine tasting and campervan adventure

If you’re exploring Abel Tasman or nearby Nelson and want to stop in at a winery, here are excellent cellar doors within easy reach:

Winery highlights include

• Seifried Estate – The South Island’s oldest family-run winery, founded in 1973, known for sustainably grown Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and rare varietals like Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt
• Neudorf Vineyards – Tucked into the Moutere Hills, this icon offers refined Pinot Noir and rich Chardonnay with a peaceful garden tasting room vibe
• Gravity Cellars – Known for gravity-fed winemaking and panoramic views, ideal for tasting with a view, creative reds and local food pairings
• Riwaka River Estate – A boutique vineyard near Abel Tasman, set between two National Parks and coastal trails perfect for combining wine tasting with beach or bike adventures

Nelson’s boutique wine scene pairs seamlessly with Abel Tasman’s natural beauty. Think wine tasting followed by kayaking golden bays or hiking forest trails, campervan life doesn’t get more scenic than this.

🍷 Waipara – North Canterbury’s Rising Wine Star

Just an hour north of Christchurch, Waipara is one of Aotearoa’s most underrated wine regions. Tucked into rolling limestone hills and sheltered from coastal winds by the Teviotdale range, this valley punches above its weight with rich Pinot Noir, expressive Riesling and bold, structured Chardonnays.

The dry climate and long autumns allow grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in elegant wines with depth and complexity. The region is also home to many organic and biodynamic producers, all offering warm welcomes and beautiful vineyard settings for tastings.

Wineries you’ll want to visit:

• Pegasus Bay – A Waipara classic, celebrated for its age-worthy Riesling and robust reds. A standout cellar door with gardens and an excellent on-site restaurant.
• Greystone Wines – Organic pioneers famous for hillside Pinot Noir. Generous tastings and wine flights in a picturesque setting.
• Black Estate – Known for natural winemaking, stunning valley views and a stylish seasonal restaurant.
• Waipara Springs – Laid-back, family-run winery with relaxed tastings and a garden café perfect for lingering.

Waipara makes a fantastic day trip or stopover for campervan travellers exploring Christchurch and North Canterbury with compact routes, beautiful scenery and heartfelt cellar door experiences.

🌿 North Island Wine Regions

The North Island’s warmer climate and volcanic soils make it a diverse playground for winemakers. From the sun-drenched coastline of Northland to the rolling hills of Hawke’s Bay and the boutique charm of Martinborough, this part of the motu offers rich reds, elegant whites and everything in between. Whether you’re following the wine trail by car or campervan, you’ll find cellar doors surrounded by native bush, olive groves and ocean views each with its own regional flavour and story.

🍷 Northland – Where Wine Meets the Tropics

Northland is where winemaking in Aotearoa first began and the region still carries that pioneering spirit. With its warm, humid climate and long growing season, it’s one of the few places in the country where grapes ripen early creating bold, expressive wines with tropical flair.

This subtropical climate lends itself beautifully to robust reds like Chambourcin and Syrah, which thrive in the heat and produce fruit-forward, spicy profiles. You’ll also find some elegant Chardonnays and experimental blends that reflect the region’s creative edge.

Wineries you’ll want to visit:

• Karikari Estate – Stunning hilltop location with ocean views, great for lunch and tastings
• Okahu Estate – Family-owned, Māori-run winery with a focus on sustainability
• Marsden Estate – A beautiful setting near Kerikeri offering award-winning wines and a top-notch restaurant
• The Landing Wines – Boutique, appointment-only vineyard with premium Syrah and Chardonnay
• Ake Ake Vineyard – Certified organic, offering biodynamic wines and a peaceful garden setting

Northland’s laid-back vibe makes it a great first stop if you’re exploring the country from top to bottom or a detour worth making for a warm welcome and a taste of Aotearoa’s wine history.

🌿 Hawke’s Bay – A Red Wine Playground

Located on the east coast of the North Island, Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest wine region, celebrating wine production since the 1850s and officially protected as a Geographical Indication in 2018. With its Mediterranean-style climate, long summer days and richly mineral soils, Hawke’s Bay is ideal for producing elegant Bordeaux-style reds, peppery Syrahs, chrys­tally balanced Chardonnay and a broad range of varietals like Pinot Gris, Viognier and even Barbera and Zinfandel

If you’re driving through the region in a camper‑van or want a bit of everything from luxe to low-key, these wineries are definite must-visits:

Best of Hawkes Bay

• Craggy Range – Hawke’s Bay’s shining star, set below Te Mata Peak; boutique cottages and luxury lodges available right among the vines with private terraces and gourmet breakfasts. A true icon in Hawke’s Bay, set beneath the dramatic backdrop of Te Mata Peak. Honestly, this place is breathtakingly beautiful — the landscape alone is worth the visit. Their restaurant is exceptional, with thoughtfully crafted dishes that pair perfectly with their award-winning wines. And of course, their Pinot Noir, Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc are standout favourites.
• Te Mata Estate –A cornerstone of Aotearoa’s wine legacy, Te Mata has been family-run since 1895 and is home to the iconic Coleraine, often hailed as one of the country’s finest reds. The estate itself is charming and understated, with a welcoming cellar door just minutes from Havelock North. While they don’t offer accommodation, there are campgrounds and boutique stays nearby, making it an easy detour on your wine-tasting journey.
• Mission Estate Winery – Established in 1851, Mission is New Zealand’s oldest winery and still one of the most popular. The grand colonial-style estate offers daily tastings, a top-rated restaurant and beautifully kept grounds ideal for a leisurely picnic or photo stop. There’s plenty of room to park a campervan and the views stretch right out over Napier.
• Black Barn / Te Mānia Lodge – Nestled under Te Mata Peak, Black Barn offers striking vineyard villas, boutique lodges and a rustic cellar door experience. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and laid-back charm. If you’re cycling the Hawke’s Bay Trails, this is a great stop with e-bike access and nearby markets, concerts and even a summer amphitheatre.
• Villas & Vines Glamping – Safari-style tents nestled in the vines of Te Awanga, offering a peaceful escape with rustic charm. This glamping spot is ideal for campervan travellers looking to take a break from the van for a night or two. Close to cellar doors and bike trails, it’s a dreamy base for wine lovers.
  👉 Book a stay at Villas & Vines Glamping

✨ Why Hawke’s Bay works so well for campervan travellers:

• Plenty of freedom camping spots around Napier and Hastings, many close to cycle trails and vineyards, perfect for exploring by bike and tasting without driving
• A cycle network of over 200 km (the Hawke’s Bay Trails) connects wineries, beaches, orchards and markets — ideal for linking tastings with sunshine and scenery
• Some winery stays offer privately parked camper‑van access near cottages or lodges and provide a restful base after a day of tastings.

🍑 Gisborne – Sun-Kissed Whites on the East Cape

Gisborne is often called the Chardonnay capital of Aotearoa and for good reason. This laid-back East Coast region is the first place in the world to see the sun each day and that sunshine plays a big role in the bold, fruit-forward wines grown here.

With its warm climate, fertile alluvial soils and proximity to the coast, Gisborne is known for producing lush Chardonnays, as well as aromatic whites like Gewürztraminer, Viognier, and Albariño. These wines are vibrant, floral and perfect for warm summer evenings or seafood pairings.

If you’re looping around the East Cape in your campervan, make time to stop at one (or more) of these welcoming cellar doors.

Wineries you’ll want to visit:

• Matawhero Wines – A pioneering family-owned winery with a gorgeous garden tasting room and charming on-site cabins available for overnight stays.
• Wrights Vineyard & Winery – Certified organic and passionate about sustainability, Wrights offers both classic and natural-style wines with a strong local following.
• Bushmere Estate – A friendly stop with picnic-perfect grounds and award-winning Chardonnays, just 15 minutes from central Gisborne.
• TW Wines – Boutique producer with a cool, modern vibe and small-batch aromatic whites that show off Gisborne’s sunny personality.

Gisborne’s relaxed pace and coastal charm make it a great destination for slow travel. If you’re looking for less-crowded cellar doors with authentic local flavour, this region is a real gem.

🍇 Auckland, Waiheke & Matakana – Urban Roots, Island Soul

Often overlooked for its urban sprawl, the Auckland region is actually the birthplace of commercial winemaking in Aotearoa, with roots stretching back to the 1800s and deep ties to Croatian immigrant communities. Today, it’s a surprising wine destination with easy access from the city, making it perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway by campervan or ferry.

🌿 Waiheke Island – The Jewel of the Hauraki Gulf

A short ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is a wine lover’s dream. With sun-drenched slopes, sea breezes and volcanic soils, this boutique island is known for elegant Syrah, Bordeaux-style blends and Rosé.

Top cellar doors include:

• Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant – Lush gardens, coastal views, fine dining and boutique accommodation — a complete vineyard escape.
• Stonyridge Vineyard – Renowned for its Larose Bordeaux-style blend, rustic Mediterranean flair and hilltop tasting deck.
• Tantalus Estate – Refined and modern, with native setting, tasting menu and even an on-site brewery.

🍷 Outer Auckland – Kumeū & West Coast

The mainland vineyards near Auckland offer historic family-run wineries, especially in Kumeū and the west coast hills — a perfect route for those avoiding the ferry.

Wineries Worth a Visit

• Kumeu River Wines – Famous for Chardonnay with Burgundian-style precision and finesse.
• Soljans Estate Winery – Croatian heritage, relaxed bistro meals and sparkling wines just a short drive from the city.

🍓 Matakana – Artisan Vibes Close to Home

Just an hour north of Auckland, Matakana feels like a world away yet is easy to reach by campervan. This region is known for bright Pinot Gris, expressive Syrah and unique varietals like Dolcetto or Sangiovese.

Wineries worth visiting:

• Brick Bay Wines & Sculpture Trail – A creative blend of wine, art and architecture in a stunning coastal setting.
• Heron’s Flight – Specializes in Italian-style reds like Dolcetto and Sangiovese — rare finds with bold character.

Whether you’re ferrying to Waiheke, cycling through Matakana or exploring heritage vineyards near Auckland, this region offers relaxed wine adventures within striking distance of the city.

🍷 Martinborough – Boutique Wines with Big Personality

Tucked away in the Wairarapa region at the bottom of the North Island, Martinborough may be small but it’s earned a stellar reputation for its world-class Pinot Noir. With a unique microclimate, dry summers and stony soils, this charming village is a hub for small-scale, high-quality producers.

Martinborough’s most appealing feature is how compact and walkable the wine region is—many cellar doors are within a short stroll or bike ride from the village square, making it one of Aotearoa’s most campervan-friendly wine spots—no long drives needed between tastings.

Winery highlights include:

• Ata Rangi – A legendary producer renowned for complex Pinot Noir and elegant whites; one of New Zealand’s most celebrated labels.
• Palliser Estate – Stunning gardens, sustainable viticulture and consistently excellent Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc.
• Luna Estate – Stylish cellar door with a great food menu and a focus on bold, expressive reds.
• Margrain Vineyard – Friendly and relaxed, with tastings, on-site accommodation and a popular onsite restaurant.
• Cambridge Road – A natural wine lover’s dream, known for minimal intervention practices and distinctive reds.

Freedom camping options and cozy vineyard cottages are available nearby if you’re planning to linger over lunch or stay overnight.

🍻 Bonus: Breweries to Sip Along the Way

While Aotearoa is best known for its wines, our craft beer scene is just as creative, bold and full of flavour. Whether you’re a hop head, sour lover or after something smooth and malty, there are plenty of local breweries worth pulling over for during your road trip. Many have taprooms with food trucks or kitchens, making them perfect for a casual lunch or wind-down after a day of hiking, biking or exploring the vineyards.

Some of our favourite breweries across the motu (island) include:

• North Island:
  • Garage Project (Wellington) – Experimental, iconic and a must-visit if you’re into bold flavours.
  • McLeod’s Brewery (Waipu) – Coastal brews with a Scottish twist and one of the best lagers in the country.
  • Sawmill Brewery (Matakana) – Sustainable, independent and a great stop just north of Auckland.
• South Island:
  • Emerson’s (Dunedin) – A pioneer of craft beer in NZ, now with a sleek taproom and gastropub feel.
  • Cassels Brewing Co. (Christchurch) – Wood-fired pizza, cool warehouse setting and award-winning beer.
  • Altitude Brewing (Queenstown) – Lakefront views, adventurous beers and great après-hike vibes.

👉 Into craft beer? Keep an eye out for our full post: Best Breweries in Wellington – A Craft Beer Lover’s Guide [(link coming soon)].

🛏️ Where to Stay on Your Wine Journey

One of the best parts of exploring Aotearoa’s wine regions is the range of places to stay — whether you’re travelling in a campervan, hiring a car or treating yourself to a luxury vineyard escape.

Here’s how to plan your overnight stays:

• Vineyard Stays – Wake up among the vines at stunning properties like Craggy Range (Hawke’s Bay), Margrain Vineyard (Martinborough) or Mudbrick (Waiheke). Many offer boutique cottages, luxury lodges and even on-site restaurants.
• Campgrounds & Holiday Parks – Wine regions like Marlborough, Central Otago and Waipara offer great access to well-equipped campgrounds, ideal for campervan travellers.
• Freedom Camping Spots – Some towns like Martinborough, Waipara and Central Otago have freedom camping locations within reach of cellar doors or bike trails. Just remember to check council rules before settling in.

If you’re mapping out your route, our road trip guides cover a range of destinations that pair beautifully with wine country:

👉 South Island Road Trip Itineraries
👉 North Island Road Trip Itineraries

Whether you’re planning to sip, swirl or stay a while — there’s no rush. Aotearoa’s wine regions are best enjoyed slowly.

💡 Sipping Responsibly

Wine tasting is one of the best ways to slow down and experience Aotearoa but it’s always more enjoyable when done safely and mindfully.

• Always have a sober driver — especially if you’re travelling by campervan. Take turns or plan ahead to stay nearby.
• Many wine regions offer guided tours and shuttles, which are a great way to let someone else do the driving. Even better, you’ll learn heaps from local experts along the way (if you remember it all, that is 😉).
• Tasting flights help you pace yourself — most cellar doors offer small pours, perfect for sampling without overdoing it. Stay hydrated, eat well and take your time.

👉 We’ve linked our destination guides throughout this post — each one includes helpful tips, top things to do and recommended tours in that area. If you’re planning a wine-tasting stop, they’re the perfect next read.

🚐 Ready to Explore Aotearoa’s Wine Regions by Campervan?

From vineyard stays to freedom camping under the stars, exploring Aotearoa’s wine regions by campervan gives you the flexibility to sip, stay and take your time. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended road trip, having the right setup makes all the difference.

👉 Use the tool below to compare campervan options and find something that suits your travel style — whether it’s a cosy two-berth or something roomier for longer adventures.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.