Dubbed as the ‘coolest little wine region’, the North Canterbury Wine Region spans Rakaia to Cheviot in what may be the most soil-diverse wine region in the country.
The North Canterbury wine region is located in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island and boasts the country’s oldest pinot noir vines – less than 45 minutes north of Christchurch.
The region spans 200km along the eastern coastline, covering an incredible area, from mountain ranges to rolling hills, rugged beaches and winding rivers.
To celebrate Pinot Noir Day, why not plan a Pinot Noir pilgrimage from Christchurch to the Waipara Valley in the South Island of New Zealand.
The North Canterbury Wine Region boasts more than 90 vineyards, most of them independently owned by this close-knit community. Easily accessible and with a variety of boutique accommodation offerings, visitors can experience more than 20 cellar doors and 10 vineyard restaurants offering food and wine in harmony with North Canterbury’s stunning backdrop.
Where to stay, eat and explore in the North Canterbury Wine Region
Stay
The North Canterbury Wine Region has far too many sites to see in just one day, so it’s best to stay a while. For those wanting to take in the region at a leisurely pace, there are many options available for accommodation, ranging from beautiful studio B&Bs to secluded hillside wine pods with incredible views of the night sky.
Explore
Eating and drinking is not all there is to do in North Canterbury and there are endless opportunities to explore it however you like. If you are a keen biker, bring your wheels and cycle along the Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail. Or if you prefer to just sit and watch the sites, ride the historic Weka Pass Railway on vintage and diesel-electric locomotives. There are also endless walking and hiking options in the area, which you can find at visithurunui.co.nz
Experience
The annual North Canterbury Wine and Food Festival is a highlight on the events calendar. Set under the 100 year-old oaks at the Glenmark Domain, join the thousands of visitors who flock to enjoy a taste and celebration of all things wine and food from North Canterbury. Enjoy live music and the casual fete-like vibe with friends or family. Ncwineandfood.co.nz
Tour the region
North Canterbury: Located just 50 minutes north of Christchurch, the North Canterbury Wine Region is ideally situated on the edge of the city. Christchurch/Banks Peninsula: Take a short drive out of the city centre and within 20 minutes you could be sitting on a hillside and sipping a glass of Pinot. Venture a little further to Banks Peninsula, which is just over an hour out of Christchurch.
For more information, vist the ChristchurchNZ website.
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