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Just a simple 45 minute drive north from Christchurch nestled among the Teviotdable Hills you will find the Waipara Valley, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing wine regions.
Waipara’s wineries are currently producing more than 250,000 cases of wine each year and growing. Warm summers with nor-west winds and sloping terrains harness the sun which provide ideal conditions for growing grapes, and award winning world-class wines are the result.
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Be sure to introduce yourself to some of the areas stunning Pinot Noirs and Rieslings, as well as some excellent Pinot Gris, Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs. And what better way to enjoy this than by sitting outside in one of the sunny outdoor garden areas of the valley’s eight cellar doors.
Join the wine producers when they come together annually at the Waipara Valley Wine and Food Festival, a fantastic opportunity to savour a selection of local wines and foods.
The region is also well known for its olive and nut farms and lavender and flower growing. From the end of October to April these can be sampled and purchased at the Waipara Valley Farmers Market.
The Waipara Valley also boasts some splendid scenic walks and wilderness trails, including the Mt Cass Walkway and Tiromoana Bush Walk. And for those who want to rewind before they unwind – take a ride on the historic Weka Pass Railway operating some weekends and holiday periods.
Greening Waipara is a world leading project that enhances the sustainability, biodiversity and marketing of winegrowing by giving vineyards ecological makeovers.
Greening Waipara restores vineyard habitats by planting mainly natives among and near the vines. The native species should provide nectar to support beneficial insects – those that control plant pests. There is now 45 Waipara Valley properties signed up to the project, having seen how adding biodiversity to agricultural ecosystems makes them more sustainable, profitable and marketable.
Mud House, Pegasus Bay and Torlesse Wines have each developed the trials close to their respective tasting room or restaurant, complete with information boards and an educational quiz for children. The trails wind through vines and native plants, leading visitors to areas where Greening Waipara is in action.
The Hurunui Trails Trust objective is to develop a series of new trails in the Hurunui based on existing parts of rail and road networks. The major goal of the group is to establish a network of trails suitable for pedestrains and cyclists covering the Hurunui district from Leithfield to Waiau. The first stage is a section in Waipara which is scheduled to open in 2010.
The Waipara trail will incorporate a number of wineries, historical and scenic attractions and accommodation. Cycling or walking the trail allows you to enjoy some wine tasting, local food & dining, Greening Waipara Biodiversity Trails, historical steam train and other activities. As funds allow this trail will be extended and link to a broader network of trails.