Photo: Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0
Perched on the terraced slopes of the Waipara Valley, Pegasus Bay Winery is a family-owned estate that blends award-winning wines with an unforgettable tasting experience. The cellar door overlooks vines and the distant Southern Alps, making it a serene stop for oenophiles and casual sippers alike. The on-site restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced dishes that pair beautifully with their signature Riesling and Pinot Noir.
Highlights & What to See
- Wine Tasting: Sample a flight of their acclaimed wines in the modern cellar door, with knowledgeable staff guiding you through each pour.
- Restaurant Dining: Book a table for lunch or dinner featuring produce from the restaurant’s own garden and local suppliers – the lamb and seafood are standout choices.
- Vineyard Walks: Stroll through the organic vineyards and learn about their sustainable practices; the views of the Teviotdale Hills are spectacular.
- Art Gallery: Admire rotating exhibitions of New Zealand contemporary art displayed throughout the winery and grounds.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least 1.5–2 hours to enjoy a leisurely tasting and a meal. If you’re pairing it with a vineyard walk, allow 3 hours. The winery is best visited as a relaxed lunch stop en route to or from Hanmer Springs, fitting neatly into a half-day outing.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: Unwind in the natural hot pools after your wine tour, just a 20-minute drive away.
- Waipara Valley Wine Trail: Explore other cellar doors along this renowned wine region, including Greystone and Mud House.
- Kaiapoi: A historic riverside town with antique shops and the Kaiapoi River Walk, 30 minutes south.
- Christchurch: The gateway city offers gardens, culture, and the Antarctic Centre, an hour’s drive southeast.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Waipara Valley Wine Trail — Lim Ashley / CC BY 2.0
- Hanmer Springs — Phil Whitehouse from London, United Kingdom / CC BY 2.0
- Kaiapoi — Schwede66 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Christchurch — Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand / CC0
- Waipara — Michal Klajban / CC BY-SA 4.0