The ultimate guide to the best wine hotels in New Zealand

The New Zealand wine map spans both islands, from Northland to Canterbury and Central Otago, and despite the popularity of the nation’s New World varieties, it wasn’t until the 1970s that New Zealand’s wines became so widely known. The growing region of Marlborough led the way for international exports, becoming famous for its quality New Zealand sauvignon blanc. Of tradition, however, Auckland holds the crown as New Zealand’s oldest and most diverse wine region. Then there’s West Auckland for its crisp New Zealand chardonnay, or Waiheke Island for full-bodied reds and Matakana for more reds and fruity blends.

The Gibbston area might also appeal for its penchant for pinot noir and a picturesque setting near Queenstown, though Wellington also has a number of quality boutique wineries on its doorstep. If you’re wondering how to make the most of your time in the nation, see our ultimate 2-week New Zealand itinerary.

Used as a filming location for New Zealand’s version of The Bachelor, Stoneridge Estate oozes romance on a tranquil vineyard just 15 minutes from central Queenstown. The Stoneridge Lodge boasts 12 acres of gardens and vines, resting on the edge of Lake Hayes and backed by mountains, an unbeatable location for enjoying premium local wines such as Central Otago pinot noir. Though the main lodge is a grand choice with its stone and timber design to complement the natural landscape, for added privacy, book the Honeymoon Cottage. Shared facilities include an outdoor terrace, infinity pool and hot tub, as well as a gym and sauna adjacent to the open-plan living and dining area.

The Marlborough is our first choice of heritage Marlborough wineries within the South Island’s foodie province, set on a 16-acre country estate complete with a working vineyard in central Marlborough. The luxury hotel itself lies within a unique 1901 building, hosting guests across 10 modern suites with views over parkland. The hotel’s Chapel bar and outdoor fireplace encourage guests to mingle over a glass of Marlborough sauvignon blanc ahead of dinner at on-site restaurant Harvest which has recently been extended to connect with the gardens. Already awarded a ‘Hat’ in the NZ Cuisine Awards, Harvest has risen fast to fame, due in no small part to chef Toby Stuart’s focus on sustainable produce. Besides touring the surrounding vineyards with the estate manager to gain more insight on small production wines (and tasting them, of course), daily activities include cruising on Marlborough Sound or taking a helicopter flight over the region.

Also among the 50-plus wineries of Hawke’s Bay, the Greenhill Lodge vies for your attention across its unspoiled farmland setting and lavish lodge, on a hilltop just 15 minutes from both Hastings and Havelock North. Mature trees and manicured gardens embellish the estate, making the views from the private verandas good enough for royalty (including Great Britain’s Queen Mother back in 1958). Marvel at the intricately carved archways and interiors across the lodge, getting lost in the billiard room and former stables-turned-gym, before congregating around the drawing room’s log fire in cooler months. On warmer days, a recreational terrace brings everyone outside for al fresco breakfast. Meanwhile, in the huge dining room, a table d’hote seasonal menu (tailor-made to meet each guest’s preferences) is served every evening. The lodge’s wine list includes all the best vintages as well as lesser-known local producers.

If you happen to be searching for wine off Auckland’s coastline, Waiheke Island has what you need. Protected from Pacific winds in a North Island embrace, Waiheke Island has a glorious climate, perfect for cultivating wine and an artistic community. Te Whau Lodge is a modern hotel with four chalet-style suites, each boasting panoramas over west harbour’s yachts and Auckland City beyond. Catering to no more than eight guests at any time on the 14-acre grounds, Te Whau Lodge hosts a nightly get together for everyone to enjoy canapes and local wines sourced from internationally acclaimed Waiheke vineyards nearby. In the morning, after taking in all the magnificent views from the deck over a four-course gourmet breakfast, guests can then take a short drive to Waiheke Golf Course or tour any attractive Waiheke winery.