Ever since a certain hobbit was captured on the big screen, tourism in New Zealand has been steadily on the rise. So, too, has the worldâs consumption of its wines, where 98% of the vineyards are certified sustainable.
It makes sense, then, to discover that the countryâs eno- and eco-tourism offerings are also numerous. Many of New Zealandâs most extolled wineries are farmed not just sustainably, but organically and/or biodynamically as well. And many other local businesses and purveyors take an equally holistic, eco-conscious approach.
Just donât expect them to shout about it. Like the Kiwis themselves, winery visits are often humble, usually entailing a stroll through the vineyards with the winemaker.
Because of this, New Zealand still offers visitors an authenticity thatâs rare and refreshing in modern global travel. Hereâs your green guide to three of the countryâs best wine destinations.
Central Otago/Wanaka
Under an hour from Queenstown, Central Otago is home to some of the worldâs best Pinot Noirs as well as a dramatic landscape of snow-capped mountains, arid hills and river gorges.
Once youâve gotten a bungee jump or two out of the way (after all, this is the home of the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, the worldâs first permanent commercial bungee-jumping site), make an appointment to visit Felton Road, one of New Zealandâs most acclaimed and eco-friendly wineries. It boasts lightweight bottles and more than 15 years in biodynamic farming.
A 10-minute drive north is Quartz Reef Wines. Rudi Bauer, the founder and chief winemaker, believes the complexity and longevity of his world-class Pinot Noirs and Champagne method sparklers has much to do with his biodynamic farming methods. Later, sneak a peak at the hulking Highland cows that graze beside Burn Cottage Vineyardâs beautiful, biodynamically farmed vineyards, open by appointment only.
Forty minutes north of Burn Cottage, at the edge of Lake Wanaka, youâll find Rippon Winery, which has been farmed by the Mills family for five generations and operated as a winery for the last three of them. It was one of the first wine estates in the South Island to implement biodynamic farming techniques, and itâs blessed with some of the most spectacular views in the wine world.
Thankfully, the family shares its stunning property and soulful wines with the world. The winery offers special events throughout the year and is open to visitors (call ahead to confirm availability). Time it right, and you can snag a seat at a pop-up dinner at The Rippon Hall or catch an outdoor concert.
Where to Stay
When it comes to eco-accommodations, youâre spoiled for choice. Base yourself in Queenstown at Sherwood Queenstown, nestle down for the night at Oasis Yurt Lodge or unleash your inner yogi at the stunning wellness retreat Aro HÄ.
More to Explore
Bike the Otago Central Rail Trail, take in Laka Wanakaâs gorgeous landscape or plant a tree on one of its islands alongside a local guide with Eco Wanaka Adventures. If you feel especially daring, soar through the treetops with Queenstown zipline company Ziptrek Ecotours.
North Canterbury
Thereâs a sleepy charm about this windswept winegrowing region in the lowlands of the Southern Alps, just 35 miles north of Christchurch. But donât let its relatively subdued character fool youâNorth Canterbury is one of New Zealandâs most exciting wine regions. And itâs infused with a small but growing number of eco-minded winemakers that craft wonderful cool climate wines.
Take a tour of the organically farmed Greystone Wines and learn about the fascinating experiments that ferment in its vineyard. Just down the road, Black Estate Wines is not to miss. It makes top-notch wines from organically or biodynamically farmed grapes as naturally as possible, like a Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. It also boasts an award-winning restaurant and events like âWaipara Valley Truffle Day Out,â forage walks, yoga and ceramics classes.
Although there are only two wineries in the Waikari subregion, located 15 miles west of Black Estate, their wines are among the countryâs best. Just keep in mind that visits to both wineries are by appointment only.
Tucked into limestone hills beneath the Alps, Bell Hill Vineyardâs premium organic and biodynamic wines give Burgundy a run for its money. Nearby, in a sweeping natural amphitheater, Pyramid Valley Vineyards has been farmed meticulously and biodynamically by American expats Mike and Claudia Weersing. The winery recently changed hands and will expand, but the hope is that its wines will remain as complex and ethereal as ever.
Where to Stay
Stargaze over the Waipara Valley in a glass eco-cabin at Greystone Purepod, or stay at the Black Estate Winery B&B that overlooks the vineyards. In Christchurch, Eco Villa is essentially a high-class commune. It offers private and shared kitchens and dining areas, an edible garden and plenty of up-cycled, sustainably focused goodness.
More to Explore
Hike or bike one of the Hurunui Trails, which includes the Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail, or soak in a thermal pool at the family-friendly Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, 50 miles from the wineries. End the day with a meal at Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant, one of the countryâs top dining spots. Savor a 30-year-old house Riesling alongside homegrown and local fare on furniture made from recycled native evergreens.
Marlborough
Marlborough may be New Zealandâs most famous wine region, but with that fame comes a reputation for big brands and intensive farming.
Nevertheless, a focus on gentler winemaking techniques and organic/biodynamic farming is on the rise, particularly among small-scale producers. Te Whare Ra Vineyard & Winery owners Anna and Jason Flowerday possess some of the oldest vines in Marlborough, farmed organically and biodynamically for the last 15 years. Visitors are often greeted by the Flowerdays themselves, along with one of their two sets of twin daughters or many friendly pups.
For a taste of terroir, head to the French-owned Clos Henri Vineyard. From the hopelessly romantic chapel that presides over the biodynamically farmed vines to its Loire-born chief winemaker and general manager, Damien Yvon, you might think you landed in Northwest France. The winery is known for events like Nuits Romantiques, an outdoor French film screening, and a Bastille Day celebration. Clos Henri also happens to make some of the most ageworthy, site-reflective wines in the region.
A stoneâs throw from both wineries is the Swiss-owned Fromm Winery. Winemaker Hatsch Kalberer crafts top-notch Pinot Noir, as well as plenty of other offerings from organically farmed grapes. Framingham Wines, Huia Vineyards, Seresin Estate and Churton Wines are other organic or biodynamic wineries worth a visit, but call ahead to confirm availability.
Where to Stay
Spend the night in Andahlane Cottage, a mud-brick retreat nestled in organic vineyards. At the excellent organic winery and restaurant, Hans Herzog Estate, have breakfast brought to your vineyard cottageâit may be delivered by the winemaker himself. Driftwood Retreat & Eco-Tours offers guided regional treks and accommodations that include a treehouse and a cottage near native wetlands.
More to Explore
Walk or bike the Wither Hills Farm Park or head 20 miles or so north to explore the Marlborough Sounds. Swim with dolphins, watch a whale migration or spot rare seabirds with E-Ko Tours.