Best Wineries in Whangarei: Discover the Top 3 Experts for Memorable Wine Experiences
Whangarei, the vibrant heart of Northland, New Zealand, is emerging as a boutique wine destination, offering access to charming wineries that showcase the region’s warm climate and rich volcanic soils. Selecting the best wineries in Whangarei ensures a delightful tasting experience, with premium Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris crafted by passionate local producers. In this guide, we’ve curated the top three wineries and wine-related venues in and around Whangarei, each celebrated for their quality wines, stunning settings, and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast seeking crisp whites, a couple planning a scenic outing, or a group looking for a relaxed cellar door experience, these venues offer exceptional wine tasting opportunities. From coastal vineyards to boutique estates a short drive from the city, explore our list to find the perfect winery to savor Whangarei’s growing wine culture.
1. Ascension Wine Estate
About the Business
Ascension Wine Estate, established in 1996 by the Scott family, is a family-owned boutique winery located in Matakana, just a 45-minute drive from Whangarei. Set on 22 hectares of rolling hills, this estate is renowned for its handcrafted Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Cabernet blends, offering a picturesque tasting experience with stunning vineyard views.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The estate features an on-site restaurant, The Vintry, serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, as well as picnic areas, vineyard tours by appointment, and event hosting for weddings. They also provide a wine club and online wine sales.
Who It’s For
Ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic tasting and dining experience, and groups looking for a scenic vineyard visit with event options.
What to Expect
Expect a warm welcome at their elegant cellar door, nestled among lush vineyards with views of the Matakana countryside. Tastings are guided by knowledgeable staff, highlighting Ascension’s award-winning Chardonnay and robust Cabernet blends. The Vintry restaurant offers dishes like seared scallops paired with Pinot Gris, and the picnic areas are perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Bookings are recommended for dining and tours.
Standout Features
- Family-owned boutique winery with over 25 years of winemaking expertise.
- Award-winning Chardonnay and Cabernet blends.
- Scenic Matakana location with a restaurant and event facilities.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shared, “Ascension’s Pinot Gris was exceptional, and the restaurant’s food was divine. The vineyard views made our trip from Whangarei unforgettable!”
Why Choose Them?
Ascension Wine Estate’s quality wines, stunning setting, and gourmet dining make it a must-visit for a premium Whangarei wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
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Website: ascensionwine.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. Sage @ Paroa Bay Winery
About the Business
Sage @ Paroa Bay Winery, located in the Bay of Islands, about a 45-minute drive from Whangarei, is a boutique winery and restaurant established in 2010. Known for its stunning coastal views and premium Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris, this winery offers a luxurious tasting experience, combining world-class wines with exceptional dining.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($15, includes a small platter) of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Rosé, open Thursday–Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The Sage Restaurant serves gourmet dishes using local ingredients, and they provide luxury accommodation, vineyard tours by appointment, and event hosting. Wines are also available for online purchase.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, foodies wanting a gourmet wine and dining experience, and groups looking for a coastal vineyard visit.
What to Expect
Expect a breathtaking setting with panoramic views of the Bay of Islands from their modern cellar door. Tastings are led by expert staff, showcasing their crisp Sauvignon Blanc and elegant Pinot Gris, paired with a small tasting platter. The Sage Restaurant offers dishes like fresh oysters with Rosé, and the luxury accommodation adds to the experience. Reservations are essential for dining and tours.
Standout Features
- Stunning coastal location in the Bay of Islands.
- Premium Sauvignon Blanc and gourmet dining at Sage Restaurant.
- Luxury accommodation for an immersive winery stay.
Customer Feedback
A guest noted, “Paroa Bay’s Sauvignon Blanc was amazing, and the restaurant’s view was spectacular. A perfect day trip from Whangarei!”
Why Choose Them?
Sage @ Paroa Bay Winery’s coastal elegance, quality wines, and exceptional dining make it a top destination for a luxurious Whangarei wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: paroabaywinery.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. Te Whai Bay Wines
About the Business
Te Whai Bay Wines, founded in 2003 by the Johnson family, is a boutique winery in Mangawhai, approximately a 50-minute drive from Whangarei. Specializing in Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Merlot, this family-run estate offers an intimate tasting experience with a focus on handcrafted wines and a relaxed, coastal vibe.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Merlot, and Rosé, open Friday–Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The winery provides cheese and antipasto platters, a pet-friendly outdoor area, and a cozy tasting room with vineyard views. They also sell wines online and offer a wine club.
Who It’s For
Great for families, wine lovers seeking a relaxed tasting, and groups looking for a pet-friendly winery experience near Whangarei.
What to Expect
Expect a welcoming, laid-back cellar door surrounded by vineyards in the Mangawhai countryside. Tastings are led by the Johnson family or their team, highlighting their smooth Chardonnay and fruity Merlot. The outdoor area is perfect for enjoying platters with a glass of Rosé, and the pet-friendly policy adds to the casual charm. No bookings are needed for tastings, but groups should call ahead.
Standout Features
- Family-run winery with handcrafted Chardonnay and Merlot.
- Pet-friendly, relaxed setting in Mangawhai, 50 minutes from Whangarei.
- Cozy tasting room with cheese platters and vineyard views.
Customer Feedback
A visitor remarked, “Te Whai Bay’s Pinot Gris was delicious, and the relaxed vibe was perfect. We loved bringing our dog along!”
Why Choose Them?
Te Whai Bay Wines’ intimate setting, quality wines, and pet-friendly atmosphere make it a delightful choice for a relaxed Whangarei wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: tewhaibaywines.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Winery in Whangarei
Selecting one of the best wineries in Whangarei offers a chance to explore Northland’s boutique wine scene, blending scenic vineyard escapes with premium tasting experiences just a short drive from the city. Ascension Wine Estate, Sage @ Paroa Bay Winery, and Te Whai Bay Wines provide diverse experiences, from elegant dining in Matakana to coastal luxury in the Bay of Islands and relaxed tastings in Mangawhai. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these venues showcase the charm of Whangarei’s wine culture.
Ready to sip and savor? Contact one of these top Whangarei-area wineries today to book a tasting or plan your visit. With their exceptional wine tasting and warm hospitality, you’ll discover the heart of Northland’s wine heritage in every glass.
Helpful Information About Whangarei Wineries
Whangarei and its surrounding regions are becoming increasingly well-known for boutique wineries that reflect the area’s unique terroir, warm climate, and rich volcanic soils. Wine lovers visiting or living in Whangarei have convenient access to vineyard experiences just a short drive from the city, in notable locations such as Matakana, Mangawhai, and the Bay of Islands. These destinations offer a range of tasting options—from crisp Sauvignon Blancs to smooth Chardonnays—combined with local hospitality and scenic settings.
In addition to wine tasting, many Whangarei-area wineries provide added offerings like farm-to-table dining, vineyard tours, and pet-friendly outdoor spaces, perfect for a casual day trip or a weekend escape. Whether you’re exploring the countryside near Ruakākā or heading toward the east coast of Northland, the surrounding wine region invites travelers to enjoy an authentic Northland wine experience that’s both relaxed and sophisticated.
Choosing the Right Winery in Whangarei
- Consider how far you’re willing to travel—some of the region’s best wineries are located within a 30–60 minute drive, in suburbs like Matakana and Mangawhai.
- Look for wineries that match your preferred style and atmosphere, whether that’s a romantic coastal escape, a family-friendly vineyard, or a vineyard with on-site dining.
- Check for cellar door hours in advance as some Northland wineries operate only on weekends or by appointment.
- Review tasting fees and whether they are refundable with purchase, especially if you plan to buy a few bottles.
- Ask if the winery offers extras like vineyard tours, picnic areas, wine clubs, or pet-friendly facilities to enhance your visit.
- Read recent customer reviews to get a sense of service quality, wine selection, and the overall visitor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whangarei Wineries
What types of wines are most common at Whangarei-area wineries?
Wineries near Whangarei typically specialize in white varietals such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris, thanks to the region’s mild, coastal climate. Some vineyards also produce reds like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Do I need to book in advance for wine tastings near Whangarei?
While some wineries welcome walk-ins, it’s generally recommended to book in advance, especially for guided tastings, restaurant dining, or larger groups. Certain wineries also require reservations for vineyard tours or weekend visits.
Are there pet-friendly wineries near Whangarei?
Yes, several wineries in the Whangarei region offer pet-friendly outdoor areas where well-behaved dogs are welcome. It’s a good idea to call ahead or check the winery’s website for their specific pet policies.
How far are most wineries from central Whangarei?
Many popular wineries are located within a 45–60 minute drive from Whangarei, in scenic locations like Matakana, Mangawhai, and Russell in the Bay of Islands. These day trips offer a mix of wine tasting, food, and relaxing countryside experiences.
Can I buy wine online from Whangarei wineries?
Yes, most boutique wineries around Whangarei support online ordering, allowing you to purchase bottles directly from their websites. Some also offer wine club memberships with seasonal shipments and member-only discounts.