Matakana Vineyards
0Growing red and white
Matakana vineyards grow 20 varieties of wine grapes, 10 red and 10 white. Chardonnay is the most widely planted with 10 producers making “wines of a bright, aromatic, soft, round, full typical of a warmer region” according to Simon Nash MW. Syrah is the most voluminous variety, with over 6 hectares planted. There are small plantings of Flora (from USA), Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Marsanne (France), Gruner Veltliner (probably Austria), Albarino and Verdelho (Spain and Portugal).
It’s the red grapes that provide the most diverse range. Matakana is home to classic Bordeaux varietals, including the rather rare Petit Verdot, but also Carmenere, (technically Bordeaux but more at home in Chile), five Italian varietals, namely Sangiovese, Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Montepulciano. We also grow the Spanish red, Temparrillo.
Make it a point to try a new wine this season, either at our Matakana vineyards’ cellar doors or at The Vintry in Matakana village. Guaranteed you will find a brand new, exciting favourite.
VISIT OUR VINEYARDS
“Think Matakana, think red wines, especially Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon-based reds in the Bordeaux mould. But recently Matakana’s Pinot Gris and Chardonnay have looked at least the equal of its reds… With its lovely hills, fields and vineyards, burgeoning wineries and snowball number of tourists, the Matakana area has even been promoted as ‘Auckland’s answer to Tuscany’”.
“In favourably dry seasons, the wines of Matakana shine, with the Chardonnays and Pinot Gris offering ripe, stone fruit characters and moderate acidity, and the reds reflecting the area’s warmth in their substantial body and rich, spicy, earthy flavours.”
– Michael Cooper’s Wine Atlas of New Zealand
Visit Matakana Vineyards
Click on our wineries in the map below to find out more
BRICK BAY WINES
Nestled among native bush and vines, Brick Bay is a place of extraordinary beauty. The Glass House, our striking lakeside pavilion, appears to float above a shimmering lake, offering uninterrupted views across our sustainably accredited 4.5 hectare vineyard. Enjoy estate-grown wines and seasonal, farm-to-table fare. Drop in for a wine tasting or book a table to unwind over lunch, dinner, or something in between. Explore the renowned sculpture trail – an inspiring fusion of contemporary art and native landscape.
COXHEAD CREEK VINEYARD
A boutique family vineyard owned by Michael and Julia producing quality wines that express the unique character of Matakana. Grapes are hand-picked and bunch-pressed. All varietals – Cabernet Franc, Rosé, Chardonnay and Verdelho – are single vineyard-grown and available online.
THE GABION
The towering free-standing gabion walls above southern Omaha, are depicted on the wine label. Made from Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the wines resemble high quality Right Bank Bordeaux reds. A selection of vintages available at The Vintry in Matakana, no cellar door sales.
HERON’S FLIGHT VINEYARD, WINERY & TASTING ROOM
Established in 1987, Heron’s Flight is Matakana’s original cellar door. Continue down the long drive to discover the tasting room overlooking the vineyard and adjoining the winery – with amble seating inside and out. With three generations living on the property, you will likely be greeted by a member of the family, who will share some history and offer you tastings of the wines produced onsite from the Italian varietals; Sangiovese and Dolcetto. You can also select food from the deli section and ‘build your own’ platter or picnic to enjoy amongst the vines with a glass of wine.
MATAKANA ESTATE
Discover one of Matakana’s most established vineyards, where wine, hospitality and nature come together. Since planting in the early 2000s, we’ve grown into a destination for wine lovers, locals and visitors, offering exceptional wines, bespoke events and luxury accommodation. Enjoy curated wine tastings paired with gourmet platters, or book a hands-on wine blending session. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding, special celebration or corporate retreat, our exclusive lodge and beautifully designed cellar door provide versatile, unforgettable spaces tailored to your needs.
NOLA VINEYARD
Family owned, sustainably farmed and tended by hand. Growing quality grapes and making memorable wine is deeply influenced by the tradition of Karl’s Dalmatian families. With Syrah, Tempranillo, Chenin Blanc, Marsanne and Chardonnay growing in the vineyard, there is a wine here for all tastes. Karl and Sheelagh look forward to sharing these with you.
OMAHA BAY VINEYARD
On the road to Tawharanui you’ll discover OBV – the vision of owners Hegman and Bev. You’ll drive through the beautiful family-owned vineyard to the cellar door and barrel hall, where you can taste OBV’s elegant wines including their sought-after Rosé and Montepulciano. Stay for a delicious platter and take in the breath taking 360° coastal views over Omaha Beach and Little Barrier Island.
OCTOBER 30
The 42-hectare BioGro certified organic property boasts Chardonnay, Syrah and the Austrian variety Grüner veltliner, carefully chosen for compatibility with Matakana’s climate, soils and environment. October 30 wines receive consistently good ratings. Cameron Douglas MS, reviewer for Wine Orbit describes the Methode Traditionelle as ‘fruit forward and gently fragrant,’ and gives the bubbly a solid 4 stars.
OMAHA HILLS
Perched over the south end of Omaha Beach looking to Little Barrier Island and the Mokihinaus. Producing super premium hand-crafted wines from low yielding vines. Specialising in Syrah and Bordeaux blends, along with barrel fermented Flora and recent plantings of Albarino. Wines are limited.
QUAIL RISE VINEYARD
A North facing boutique vineyard, growing Chardonnay and Merlot grapes. Nestled beneath a pine forest offering luxury accommodation set within the vines. Matakana village, the wine trail and beautiful beaches are all within easy reach. This boutique location ticks all your ‘must do’ boxes.
RIFT WINES
Lifelong farmers, Bill and Deb have swapped livestock for rootstocks, now growing Syrah and Chardonnay in Matakana. Named Rift after the colourful and somewhat fractious history of the property, as well as signalling the gaping cracks that open up in their clay soils during summer.
RUNNER DUCK ESTATE
Clyde and Farida left colourful Mumbai to pursue their passion for food and wine in New Zealand. Falling in love with Matakana they purchased their vineyard, Runner Duck Estate and later Plume Restaurant and Plume Villas. Experience Farida’s passion for global cuisine and Clyde’s knowledge and love for wine. Visit Plume to taste their delicious Runner Duck Estate wines, delightful cuisine and relax with glorious landscaped vineyard views.
SCULPTUREUM & ROTHKO
Discover one of New Zealand’s most unique destinations, home to expansive sculpture gardens and world-class indoor art galleries. Explore over 850 works of art, then sample the Sculptureum wine range, including a Bordeaux blend, Syrah and Rosé. Complete your visit with a meal at Rothko restaurant, where the art of food is celebrated through a creative menu inspired by heritage, fire and fermentation. Sculptureum wines pair beautifully with the food – ask your waiter for a recommendation.
SPEAKEASY WINES
Some of Matakana’s most unique and exclusive wines, crafted using natural winemaking. Our small but mighty range is focused around premium Bordeaux red varieties and includes sparkling wines and rosé’s. We share our secluded winery with the Bohemian Cider team. When you visit you can also taste award-winning ciders. Please book at least 2 days in advance.
TAKATU VINEYARD
Elegant boutique wines that are well-balanced and age slowly and gracefully. Renowned for their French-styled Rose, Pinot Gris and Bordeaux-style Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec blend, they have recently celebrated their Blanc de Gris sparkling. The vineyard and luxury boutique lodge embrace panoramic views of the Pacific, Mt Tamahunga and rolling pastures. Traditional winemaking techniques use only immaculate fruit, low cropped to respect the nature and location of the vineyard.
THE VINTRY WINE BAR
A friendly boutique bar and tasting room, showcasing Matakana’s local wine and more. Located in the heart of the Village, enjoy a glass of Matakana wine on the sun deck, in leather chairs by the fire, even take it into the movies. The staff are proud ambassadors of Matakana’s wines. Buy bottles to take home at cellar door prices.
YAKUTIN FAMILY WINES
Every sip is a joy and every bottle tells a story. Oleg and Tanya Yakutin craft graceful, age-worthy wines: vibrant, honest and full of character. Wines that make your taste buds dance. Their metamodern approach blends deep respect for nature with thoughtful winemaking: living soil, resilient vines and gentle extraction of flavour and texture. The Yakutins pair sincerity with a wink, big dreams with practical steps and a spark of playful curiosity at every turn.
VISIT OUR VINEYARDS
Open for Tasting
Open by Appointment
Other Vineyards
Wine Trail Map
Download our A4 double-sided printable and screen-friendly version of the Matakana Wine Trail Map here
Come and discover our Matakana vineyards with passionate locals.
If you would like to be the first to know about any upcoming things to do in Matakana or events in our Matakana wineries, please get in touch.