The wineries of Kumeu date back to the 1930s when wine families of Croatian origin established winemaking in the area.  These families are still living and working in the area today, making some of New Zealand's most renowned wines. These vineyards contrast with the spectacular coastal scenery of the area. Leave behind the bustle of Auckland city and head northwest to join our afternoon wine tour and taste the flavours of Kumeu Wine Country, Auckland’s Heritage Wine Region. Enjoy lunch at a contemporary vineyard restaurant, sample world renowned wines and marvel at the rugged surf-fringed coastline nearby. Your first stop is at Soljans Vineyard. Soljans has won many awards for their wines and they are also widely acknowledged in New Zealand as being an expert producer of methode traditionelle (bottle-fermented) sparkling wines.Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at Soljans Winery restaurant. The winery is built with sunshine in mind and serves Mediterranean-style food with a New Zealand twist, showcasing fresh seasonal produce from around the region.

A short drive takes us to our next winery which is Kumeu River. Set up by the Brajkovich family in the 1940’s all of their grapes are hand harvested and the winery is still run by the family (Michael Brajkovich was New Zealand’s first Master of Wine!). Kumeu River are world famous for their Chardonnay and also produce a range of other wines.

Visit the black sands of Muriwai Beach - see the gannets flying off in the distance and enjoy the views of this stunning surf beach (Gannet colony access will hopefully reopen at some stage but currently not accessible

Your final wine tasting is at West Brook Winery. The West Brook cellar door looks across an idyllic duck pond and terraced picnic area to row after row of vines. The wines reflect true varietal character and their unique regional origins. Without exception they are premium quality and have won numerous awards. This half day ‘wineries out west’ wine tour is a great introduction to the region. * Wineries included may change depending on day of week