Imagine standing among the first autumn leaves as you look out over rolling hills of countryside. Meanwhile, the aroma of stunning fare begins to waft in your direction – a delight matched only by the tantalising taste of some of New Zealand’s best wines.

The Waipara Wine and Food Festival is an annual event held each March at the Glenmark Church. It is designed to celebrate the region’s fantastic wines and fabulous local fare.

There is live music to be enjoyed as you taste wines from the selection of 16 local vineyards and match it with food from more than 20 food stalls. And the kids have been well and truly catered for with live acts and entertainment.

The Waipara Valley combines warm nor-west winds and sloping terrains to harness the sun to make some of New Zealand’s best wines. The soil types are ideal for producing quality wine and so varied that each of the 80 vineyards in the area offers a distinctive taste.

Waipara Valley is best known for its unique Pinots and Rieslings, but is also making its mark with some excellent Pinot Gris, Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs.

Tickets are in hot demand each year and start from as little as $20 .

When: Saturday 6 March 2010

Where: Waipara

Drive Time: Located 60 Km north of Christchurch on SH1, The Waipara Valley is a 40 minute drive north of Christchurch

Cost: $20 -$30 . Children under 18 free

Want to know more? www.waiparawine.co.nz