Wineries of Northland — Tastes We’ve Loved

Wineries in Northland are shaped by warm sunshine, ancient soils and rugged coastlines — conditions that give each drop its own character. We’ve visited plenty of vineyards, tasted many wines and these five stood out for flavour, setting and soul. From Whangarei to the Kaitaia, these are the Northland wineries we’ve personally enjoyed — places worth stopping in for.

1. Okahu Estate

A small-batch winery where the wines reflect the unique soil of “kauri sands,” ancient clay and the relaxed, wild lifestyle of the far north. At Okahu Estate, the vineyard is humble in scale but ambitious in flavour. Sunsets, sea breezes and handcrafted reds and whites combine to give a wine-tasting that feels like coming home.

Need to Know – Okahu Estate

• 📍 Location: 520 Okahu Road, Kaitaia, Northland
• 🍷 What to try: “Shipwreck Bay” series and wines from their “Estate” block — spicy Syrah, plush Chambourcin, crisp whites
• 🌿 Style: Boutique, handcrafted, small production; wines with noticeable terroir and complexity
• 🕒 Best time to visit: Afternoon, when the light softens and views stretch across the land

2. Carrington Estate

Carrington Estate is a blend of vineyard, golf course and country luxury. Sitting in the Karikari Peninsula, it’s a winery with lush surroundings, beautifully designed cellar door ambience and wines that pair as comfortably with a good meal as with sunset views.

Need to Know – Carrington Estate

• 📍 Location: Karikari Peninsula, Doubtless Bay
• 🍽️ What to try: Estate wines paired with meals, especially bold reds and vibrant whites — great food & wine combos
• 🌄 Style: Elegant, well-rounded wines in a setting made for slowing down
• 🕒 Best time to visit: Lunch or early evening, when you can stay for scenery + food

3. Marsden Estate Winery

Marsden Estate offers a refined vineyard experience in Kerikeri. The setting is lovely and serene; the wines are expressive. Whether it’s a wine tasting, a vineyard platter or tasting the vintage under trees, this place felt special from first sip to last.

Need to Know – Marsden Estate Winery

• 📍 Location: Kerikeri, Northland
• 🍷 What to try: Their premium range; reds with good body and whites with crisp acidity; wines that complement local produce
• 🍇 Style: Polished, with attention to detail and flavour consistency
• 🌿 Best time to visit: Afternoon, leisurely lunch settings

4. Omata Estate

Omata Estate is tucked a bit more off the beaten path, giving it a quiet charm — less bustle, more vineyard, more peace. It’s one of those places where you savour your wine and the view just as much as the grape.

Need to Know – Omata Estate

• 📍 Location: Northland (exact town/vineyard road etc. depending on your notes)
• 🍷 What to try: Their flagship wines, perhaps whites or blends — ones that showcase the vineyard’s personality
• 🌿 Style: Relaxed, vineyard-forward, lesser known, which tends to make the visit feel more personal
• 🌅 Best time to visit: Late afternoon or when the vineyard is quieter

5. Ake Ake Vineyard – Kerikeri

For something a little different, Ake Ake Vineyard in Kerikeri offers an organic approach to winemaking, producing wines that truly reflect the land. This boutique, family-run vineyard is committed to sustainable practices, making every sip feel connected to the whenua. The experience is more than just wine tasting — their on-site restaurant serves dishes designed to pair perfectly with their wines, all set against the backdrop of rolling vines.

Need to Know – Ake Ake Vineyard

• 📍 Location: Kerikeri, Northland
• 🍷 What to try: Their organic Pinot Gris, Syrah, and Chambourcin, along with seasonal specials
• 🍽️ Style: Organic, boutique, with a strong focus on food and wine pairings
• 🌿 Highlights: Family-owned, sustainable vineyard practices, restaurant dining among the vines
• 🕒 Best time to visit: Lunch or early evening, when you can relax over food and wine in a tranquil setting

Closing Thoughts

These wineries remind us that Northland isn’t just about sea, forest and coastline — it’s also about taste, terroir and texture. Each vineyard tells a story: soil, climate, craft and care. If you wander these cellars, pause over the views, sip slowly and let the flavour of this land settle with you.