View & Compare All Waipara Wine Tours

The North Canterbury wine region is located in the South Island of New Zealand and is one of the country’s most exciting and rapidly growing wine regions. Situated around the city of Christchurch, the region has a unique climate and soil type that allows for the production of world-class wines.

Canterbury’s wine-growing industry has come a long way from the humble beginnings when French settlers planted the first vines in Akaroa. Since those pioneer times, Canterbury viticulture has matured and established itself around the two regions of Burnham and Waipara, with the Waipara Valley wine district having many bookable tours available. More recent times have seen Kurow plantings produce vintages also.

Popular Waipara Wine Tours

The North Canterbury wine region has a cooler climate than most of New Zealand’s wine regions, which is due to its proximity to the Southern Alps. The region is known for its long, dry summers, and cool autumn nights that allow grapes to ripen slowly and develop intense flavors. The region’s soil is made up of a mix of loess, gravel, and alluvial deposits, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the distinctive character of the wines produced in the region.

The region is best known for its Pinot Noir, which is highly acclaimed for its complexity and elegance. Other notable varietals produced in the region include Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc. The region’s wineries are often smaller and boutique in size, with a focus on quality over quantity.

One of the unique features of the North Canterbury wine region is its emphasis on organic and biodynamic winemaking. Many of the region’s wineries follow sustainable practices, and some are even certified organic or biodynamic. This focus on sustainable winemaking is reflected in the high-quality of the wines produced in the region.

The region of Canterbury is also home to a vibrant food and wine culture. The region’s wineries often offer tastings and tours, and many have restaurants that serve local produce and wine. The region’s proximity to the city of Christchurch also makes it easy for visitors to explore the region’s wineries and restaurants.

This is an exciting and rapidly growing wine area of New Zealand. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and a unique climate and soil type, the region’s wines are highly acclaimed and well worth exploring remotely by bottle and in-person on tour if at all possible!