Kumeu Wine and Food Pairing Tour

Our Kumeu Wine Tour is more than just wine tasting — it’s a relaxed, full‑day experience built around exceptional wine, thoughtfully paired food, and great company. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be welcomed by friendly, knowledgeable hosts who are passionate about showcasing West Auckland. You’ll visit carefully selected local wineries where wines are enjoyed with complementary food pairings, along with a leisurely lunch stop that lets you savour each flavour without feeling rushed. What truly sets this tour apart is the journey beyond the vineyards. Before returning to the city, we travel through the rolling countryside of Muriwai. When in season, guests can visit the world‑famous Gannet Bird Colony and walk along Muriwai’s dramatic black‑sand beach — a uniquely wild West Auckland experience not found on other wine tours. Book your Kumeu Wine Tour today and experience Auckland’s wine country and wild west coast.

Itinerary

1. Soljan’s Winery This is a family operated vineyard started by Tony Soljan. There is a long history associated with the Soljans in West Auckland and their original vineyard was in the suburb of Henderson which is coincidently also in West Auckland. In the Kumeu vineyard we grow Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Pinotage, all varieties which excel in the Kumeu region. The wine makers and staff endeavour to make the best possible wines for you to enjoy so they get their grapes from where they grow best. Soljans employs modern wine making technology, but they never compromise on quality, so they still retain some traditional methods. In addition to the French Oak Barrique Barrels they have for ageing wine, they still have and use the hand-made, 65-year-old, 2,250 litre, magnificent totara barrels for aging their exquisite Founders Tawny Port. At Soljans Estate Winery, they produce a wide range of still and sparkling wines, and have been doing so for over 80 years. (45 min) Admission included
2. At The Hunting Lodge, guests can enjoy a relaxed yet generous wine experience at one of Kumeu’s most loved casual dining destinations. Tastings highlight a selection of estate‑grown wines, with a focus on elegant Chardonnays, vibrant Pinot Gris, refreshing Rosé, and smooth, approachable reds — reflecting the region’s long and respected winemaking heritage. There’s something here to delight both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to wine tasting. Lunch is served at the Lawn Bar, a laid‑back outdoor space ideal for unwinding between tastings. The share‑style menu features generous charcuterie boards with cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments, alongside freshly made pizzas with a variety of toppings. Guests can also enjoy casual sides and snacks, all perfectly suited to enjoy with a glass of wine. With its welcoming atmosphere, quality wines, and crowd‑pleasing food, The Hunting Lodge is a fun, social, and memorable stop on your wine tour. (2h 0min) Admission included
3. The Muriwai Gannet Colony is a spectacular sight to behold! From August to March, around 1,200 pairs of gannets nest on the rugged cliffs and two vertical-sided islands 1. Watching these magnificent birds with their impressive two-meter wingspans master the onshore updrafts is truly mesmerizing 1. Plus, the views of the black-sand Muriwai Beach stretching 60 kilometers are simply breathtaking. (30 min) Admission included
4. Kumeu River Winery is world‑renowned for producing some of New Zealand’s finest Chardonnay, often compared to top white Burgundies for its elegance, balance, and depth. During your visit, you can expect to taste beautifully crafted Chardonnays ranging from fresh and vibrant estate styles to more complex, single‑vineyard expressions that highlight the region’s unique terroir and clay soils. Guests may also have the opportunity to sample Kumeu River’s exceptional sparkling wines, made in a traditional méthode with extended ageing for fine bubbles and refined complexity. These sparkling wines reflect the same precision and craftsmanship that has built the winery’s international reputation. NB.THIS WINERY IS ONLY OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK WHICH EXCLUDES SUNDAYS. (1h 0min) Admission included
5. Hallertau Brewery: Where the beer is so good, even your taste buds will do a happy dance! We have added this as an option for our last stop. This is an optional tasting and at your own expense should you like to extend your tour. Please tell your give at lunchtime. (45 min)