Welcome to the

Classic New Zealand
Wine Trail

Three major wine-producing regions, a capital city, rural towns, and coastal waterways combine to create the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. The multi-day touring route is self-guided. Follow the grape signs and savour this unforgettable food and wine journey.

The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail takes you through Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Wellington and Marlborough — regions accounting for more than 80% of New Zealand’s wine production. Combined with stunning scenery, beautiful forest parks, buzzing nightlife, and indulgent food experiences, this truly is a New Zealand must-do.

You’ll find around 230 wineries and more than 100 cellar doors to enjoy along the way. Hawke’s Bay is the land of robust Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; in Wairarapa, Pinot Noir gets star billing; Wellington is home to quality coffee, cocktails and craft beer; and Marlborough is the blockbuster Sauvignon Blanc country.

While the main focus of the journey is wine and food, the route also serves up all kinds of adventure and cultural experiences. Encounter unique wildlife, discover historic villages, check out artists’ studios, meet specialist food producers, enjoy live theatre, embark on forest hikes, brewery tours, fishing trips, and more.

Explore the regions

Hawke’s Bay

As an official Great Wine Capital of the World, Hawke’s Bay boasts amazing weather, photogenic Art Deco architecture, a seaside town, and more than 70 wineries.

Wairarapa

Just over the hill from Wellington, Wairarapa encompasses five small characterful towns with stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and boutique shopping.

Wellington

With a compelling mix of culture, history, nature, and cuisine, New Zealand’s capital city is renowned for its superb coffee, craft beer, and award-winning cafés and restaurants.

Marlborough

The region is home to 168 wineries, pairing bucket-list spots like the Marlborough Sounds with the renowned taste of Sauvignon Blanc, and award-winning seafood.

Follow your nose… and the signs

To help you find your way along the 380km Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, keep an eye out for the grape signs along the way. These will guide you through Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Wellington, and across Cook Strait to Marlborough.