Must visit wineries in Hawke’s Bay

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Hawke’s Bay isn’t just one of New Zealand’s sunniest spots – it’s also home to some of the country’s best wineries. Rolling vineyards, historic cellar doors, and award-winning wines make it a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a good drop. Whether you’re into bold reds, crisp whites, or something a little different, there’s a cellar door here with your name on it. 

The best part? Exploring in a campervan means you can take your time – soak up the scenery – and visit as many wineries as you like without worrying about rushing back to a hotel. From iconic estates to hidden gems, here are the must-visit wineries and vineyards to add to your Hawke’s Bay travel itinerary. 

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Why Hawke’s Bay is a wine lover’s paradise

Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine region, and with more than 200 vineyards and 30 cellar doors, it’s a dream destination for anyone who enjoys a great glass of wine. The region’s warm, dry climate and diverse soils – from gravelly riverbeds to clay hills – create the perfect conditions for producing complex, full-bodied wines. 

Unlike Marlborough, which is best known for sauvignon blanc, or Central Otago, famous for pinot noir, vineyards in Hawke’s Bay are all about variety. The region’s signature reds – cabernet sauvignon, syrah, and merlot – thrive in the warm days and cool nights, developing rich flavours and smooth tannins. Chardonnay also shines here, offering everything from crisp, citrusy styles to bold, oak-aged expressions. 

One of the best ways to experience Hawke’s Bay wine is by following the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. This self-guided route connects some of the region’s top wineries, winding from Napier’s Art Deco streets to the boutique vineyards of Havelock North and the coastal cellar doors of Te Awanga. Whether you visit a handful of wineries or make a full day of it, the trail offers a mix of historic estates, family-run vineyards, and modern tasting rooms – all with a warm, welcoming feel. 

 

The best wineries to visit in Hawke’s Bay

With so many excellent wineries to choose from, deciding where to go can be a challenge. Whether you’re after bold reds, elegant chardonnays, or a long lunch with vineyard views, these are some of the top spots to add to your list. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Craggy Range

Set at the foot of Te Mata Peak, Craggy Range is a must-visit for its striking location alone. This family-owned winery is known for its commitment to single-vineyard wines, crafting exceptional syrah, chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style reds that highlight the unique terroir of Hawke’s Bay. The experience goes beyond the wine, though – the on-site restaurant has earned two hats at the Cuisine Good Food Awards, offering a seasonal menu that pairs perfectly with Craggy Range’s wines.  

 

Church Road Winery

With over 125 years of winemaking history, Church Road is one of Hawke’s Bay’s most iconic wineries. It was here that pioneering winemaker Tom McDonald helped shape New Zealand’s reputation for premium reds, and today, the winery continues to produce award-winning cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and chardonnay. Visitors can explore the historic cellars, enjoy a guided tasting, or settle in at the courtyard restaurant for a relaxed lunch with vineyard views. Church Road also leads the way in sustainable wine tourism, recently winning a Great Wine Capitals award for its environmental practices – a testament to its commitment to both quality and sustainability. 

 

Elephant Hill

For a winery that delivers both on wine and waterfront views, Elephant Hill is hard to beat. Set along the Te Awanga coastline, this modern and architecturally striking estate makes the most of its oceanfront setting, with a focus on cool-climate wines that thrive in the sea-kissed air. Elephant Hill is best known for its elegant syrah, chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style reds, with a commitment to meticulous vineyard management and sustainable winemaking. The cellar door offers an intimate tasting experience, where visitors can sample a selection of estate and reserve wines while taking in the views of vines stretching toward the Pacific Ocean. 

 

Mission Estate Winery

Established in 1851 by French missionaries, Mission Estate holds the title of New Zealand’s oldest winery. Located in the hills of Taradale, just outside Napier, the winery combines a rich history with a modern approach to winemaking. The cellar door is housed in the beautifully restored Grande Maison, an elegant seminary building that offers panoramic views of the vineyards and coast. Visitors can enjoy tastings of Mission’s signature wines, including their well-regarded chardonnay and Bordeaux-style reds, or settle in for a meal at the on-site restaurant, which is one of the region’s most popular dining spots. Mission Estate is also home to the famous Mission Concert, an annual outdoor event that has hosted some of the world’s biggest music acts. 

 

Te Mata Estate

Few wineries in New Zealand can claim a history as rich as Te Mata Estate. Established in 1896, it remains family-owned and is best known for Coleraine, one of the country’s most highly regarded red blends. Located just outside Havelock North, Te Mata Estate has a long-standing reputation for crafting Bordeaux-style reds and elegant chardonnays, using a combination of organic, biodynamic, and precision viticulture techniques. Visitors to the cellar door can sample a selection of Te Mata’s acclaimed wines, explore the heritage of one of New Zealand’s pioneering wineries, and even get advice on cellaring, with Te Mata offering detailed recommendations on how long to age their wines for peak enjoyment. 

 

Black Barn Vineyards

Black Barn Vineyards offers more than just great wine – it’s a destination in itself. Set on the north-facing slopes of the Te Mata hills, this boutique winery is known for its small-batch, handcrafted wines, available exclusively through its cellar door, bistro, and website. But wine is just one part of the experience. Black Barn also hosts live music and events in its 2,000-seat amphitheatre, has a range of luxury retreats for those looking to stay overnight, and serves up award-winning cuisine at its bistro, which focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re visiting for a tasting, a long lunch, or a summer concert under the stars, Black Barn delivers a well-rounded Hawke’s Bay experience. 

 

Clearview Estate Winery

For a relaxed, coastal winery experience, Clearview Estate is an essential stop. Located in Te Awanga on the Cape Coast, this owner-operated winery has been producing wines since 1987 and is known for its bold reds, barrel-fermented chardonnays, and approachable hospitality. The laid-back cellar door welcomes visitors to sample a selection of small-lot wines made from estate-grown fruit, while the restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes designed to complement the wines. With its courtyard seating among the vines and a cosy indoor space for cooler days, Clearview Estate is the perfect spot to take a break, enjoy a long lunch, and stock up your wine rack.  

 

How to plan your campervan winery tour

Exploring Hawke’s Bay wineries in a campervan is a great way to enjoy the region at your own pace. With vineyards spread across Napier, Havelock North, and Te Awanga, a little planning will help you make the most of your time – from choosing the best season to visit to finding the right place to park up for the night. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Book ahead

If you’re planning a wine tasting tour in Hawke’s Bay, it’s a good idea to secure your spot in advance. Some cellar doors operate by appointment only, while others offer guided tastings, food pairings, or vineyard tours that need to be booked ahead of time.  

If you have a particular winery in Hawke’s Bay you’d love to visit, check their website for opening hours and availability. It’s also worth mapping out your route – many Hawke’s Bay wineries are close together, making it easy to visit multiple spots without too much driving. 

 

Best time to visit

Hawke’s Bay is a year-round wine destination, but each season offers something different. 

  • Spring (Sept–Nov) – Vineyards start to blossom, and the weather is mild, making it a great time to visit before the summer crowds arrive. 

  • Summer (Dec–Feb) – The busiest time of year, with long, warm days perfect for outdoor tastings and alfresco dining. Wineries can be at their most lively, so booking ahead is recommended. 

  • Autumn (Mar–May) – Harvest season is in full swing, offering a chance to see winemaking in action. Many wineries host special events and experiences around this time. 

  • Winter (Jun–Aug) – A quieter, more intimate time to visit. Think cosy cellar doors, roaring fireplaces, and the chance to enjoy a more personal tasting experience. 

 

Responsible driving

Wine tasting is about enjoying the experience, but it’s important to do so safely. If you’re travelling with others, consider taking turns as the sober driver so everyone gets a chance to sample the wines. Many wineries also have spittoons, allowing you to taste without overindulging. 

Pairing wine with food is a great way to slow down your intake and enhance the tasting experience. Many wineries offer platters, long lunches, or grazing boards, so plan to stop for something to eat along the way. Booking a winery tour with a driver is another good option if everyone in your group wants to enjoy a full tasting experience. 

Most wineries have plenty of parking, but it’s always best to check ahead. If you’re staying at a nearby holiday park, consider using a taxi or shuttle service so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving. 

 

Where to stay

After a day of wine tasting, you’ll need a comfortable place to park up for the night. Fortunately, Hawke’s Bay has several great campervan-friendly options, including: 

  • Hawke’s Bay TOP 10 Holiday Park – a spacious, park-like setting with large powered sites, modern amenities, and easy access to Napier and surrounding wineries. 

  • Kennedy Park Resort – a centrally located option in Napier with well-maintained powered campervan sites, kitchen facilities, and an onsite café and restaurant.  

  • Hastings TOP 10 Holiday Park – a great base for exploring the wineries of Havelock North and beyond, with powered sites, a swimming pool, and a spa to relax after a day of tastings. 

 

Additional attractions in Hawke’s Bay

While the wineries are the main draw, there’s plenty more to see and do in Hawke’s Bay. Whether you’re after scenic views, wildlife encounters, or local culture, these attractions are well worth adding to your itinerary. 

  • Te Mata Peak – For the best panoramic views of the region, take a drive (or hike) up to this iconic lookout. From the summit, you’ll see rolling vineyards, the coastline, and on a clear day, even as far as Mount Ruapehu. 

  • Napier’s Art Deco – Following the devastating 1931 earthquake, Napier was rebuilt in striking Art Deco style. Today, the city is known for its beautifully preserved architecture, with guided walks and vintage car tours offering a glimpse into its unique history. 

  • Cape Kidnappers – Home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony, Cape Kidnappers offers the chance to see thousands of these impressive seabirds up close. You can reach the colony via guided tours or take a coastal walk along the beach at low tide. 

  • Hawke’s Bay Farmers' Market – A must-visit for food lovers, this weekly market showcases the region’s best produce, from fresh fruit and artisan cheeses to baked goods and locally made wine. Held every Sunday at Tōmoana Showgrounds, it’s a great spot to stock up on picnic supplies or enjoy a relaxed morning sampling local flavours. 

 

Ready to explore Hawke’s Bay?

With world-class wineries, coastal and countryside cellar doors, and a thriving food scene, Hawke’s Bay is the ultimate destination for a campervan getaway. Whether you’re winding through vineyard-lined roads, tasting award-winning wines, or soaking up the region’s laid-back charm, there’s no better way to explore than with the freedom of a campervan. 

Start planning your trip today – book your maui campervan today and get ready to discover the best of Hawke’s Bay, one glass at a time. 

 

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