Auckland and Northland
The Growing Region

Climate

Despite Auckland and Northland’s varied terroirs, the sub-regions are united by volcanic-based, clay soils, a balmy sub-tropical climate and close proximity to the coast (like the UK, New Zealand is an island country that’s surrounded by water). Auckland and Northland’s humid, sub-tropical climate can pose problems with susceptibility to disease in some sub-regions, but careful site selection and viticulture techniques can lessen this risk. On the other hand, Waiheke Island’s unique Hauraki Gulf location gives it a particularly distinct climate: dry, warm and assisted by cooling sea breezes.

Location

Sprawled across two magnificent harbours, metropolitan Auckland covers a large, geographically diverse area. Auckland’s first vineyards were planted in the early 1900s in what was then rural West Auckland by pioneering winemakers (whose legacies can still be seen on today’s labels). These days, the region stretches from the historic West Auckland sub-regions of Henderson, Kumeu, Huapai and Waimauku, past the rural haven of Matakana right up to Whangarei and Kerikeri in Northland, south to Clevedon’s rolling hills, right through to the idyllic wine-growing island that is Waiheke Island.

Grape Varietals

The greater Auckland region produces smaller quantities than other regions, but certainly makes up for it in quality. Renowned for its eexceptional Pinot Noir, and highly sought-after Syrah, Waiheke’s warm, dry, maritime climate results in intensity, varietal depth and purity of fruit. On the other side of the region, West Auckland’s fertile soils are famous for producing world-class Chardonnays and Merlot in particular. A relatively recent addition to the wine- growing map is Matakana, a pretty, rural town about an hour north of Auckland, which produces stylish Pinot Gris, Syrah and reds.

Soil

The metropolitan area of Auckland is located on a volcanic ring, including around 53 volcanic hills, craters and cones. Over the past few millennia, this volcanic soil has weathered away, leaving behind predominantly clay soils, although sandstone, mudstone and silt are also common. Auckland’s sub-regions can vary significantly and while many of the soils provide poor drainage, careful management and clone selection means premium wines can be produced from relatively poor soils.