Gisborne is the first wine region in the world to see the new day's sun. Located on the most easterly point of the north island, Gisborne is a beautiful and charming place. It’s warm and sunny, is very relaxed and thoroughly steeped in Maori culture.
Gisborne is New Zealand’s 4th largest grape growing region. It receives a lot of sun. Although sheltered by mountains to the west, it is also exposed to cyclones giving rise to significant variations in quality between vintages. Soils tend to alluvial loams on sandy or volcanic sub soils of moderate fertility. Gisborne vineyards concentrate on Chardonnay, with other white varies including Chenin Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Riesling widely planted. Vineyards are easy to reach after a short drive from Gisborne city, although travel to Gisborne from Auckland will take some time if driving. Gisborne can also be reached by air.
To the west of Gisborne, and separated by a range of rugged mountains is the Bay of Plenty. Centred on the port of Tauranga, the Bay of Plenty is best known for its wonderful surf beaches and is a popular holiday resort to many New Zealanders. The area is also a big horticultural producer and home to two of New Zealand’s larger wineries.