Wine Trail

Gisborne's Wine Trail is a sun-drenched loop through New Zealand's easternmost wine region, where Chardonnay reigns supreme and the Pacific breezes keep things cool. This is wine country with a laid-back, coastal vibe — think cellar doors set among vines, art-filled tasting rooms, and winemakers who are happy to chat over a glass of their latest vintage. The trail weaves through rolling hills and river flats, offering a relaxed day of tasting, grazing, and soaking up the region's unique light.

Highlights & What to See

• Matawhero Wines – A historic estate with a beautiful garden setting; try their famed Gisborne Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer.
• Million Estate – Known for its striking architecture and a sculpture park; the tasting room pours robust reds and aromatic whites.
• Liquorice & Lime – A boutique cellar door where experimental wines meet a cozy café vibe; don't miss the small-batch Syrah.
• Bushmere Estate – Family-run and welcoming, with a focus on organic practices; their Viognier is a standout.
• Vinoptima Estate – Exclusive and tiny, producing only Gewürztraminer; book ahead for a personal tasting with the winemaker.
• Te Ata Estate – A Māori-owned winery that weaves indigenous stories into the tasting experience; the Pinot Gris is excellent.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside a full day (6–8 hours) to comfortably visit 4–6 cellar doors without rushing. The trail is compact — most wineries are within a 20-minute drive of Gisborne city — so you can take your time over lunch at a vineyard café and still make it back for sunset. If you're a serious oenophile, consider two days to explore deeper and include the smaller, appointment-only producers.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – The historic port town offers great cafés, the Tairawhiti Museum, and the famous Captain Cook statue at the waterfront.
• Eastland – Rugged coastline, remote beaches like Wainui Beach, and the East Cape Lighthouse at the northern tip of the North Island.
• Rere Rockslide – A natural waterslide on the Rere River, perfect for a refreshing dip between tastings.
• Te Urewera – A vast, ancient forest with hiking trails and the stunning Lake Waikaremoana, about 90 minutes inland.

Please check official sources for current details.