Mission Estate Winery

The basics

Mission Estate Winery was founded by French missionaries who set sail for New Zealand in 1838. The French traditions are continued by the current winemaker, Paul Mooney. Chardonnay, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and syrah are the main varieties grown and produced here. You can sample wine, take a tour, enjoy a meal, or attend a concert in the grounds. Visit independently or on a winery tour of Hawkes Bay, the premier wine-producing region in the North Island.

Things to know before you go

• You can taste wines at the winery independently or during a hosted tasting experience. You need to book hosted tastings and it's advised to book for independent tastings, especially on weekends. There’s a fee for both types of tasting.

• Mission Estate offers accommodation in the Farmhouse, a 3-bedroom cottage amid the vineyards decorated in a contemporary French country style.

• The winery sometimes hosts concerts by famous New Zealand and international acts–keep an eye on their website for information on upcoming events.

How to get there

Mission Estate Winery is in the Taradale Hills, just southwest of central Napier and north of Hastings. Unless you’re visiting on a guided tour–a good idea so everyone in your group can sample wine without driving–you’ll need your own vehicle to visit the winery.

When to get there

The Cellar Door is open for tastings every day of the week between mid-morning and late afternoon. Slightly reduced hours operate on Sundays. The Mission Restaurant serves lunch and dinner every day of the week. The restaurant is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day. Bookings are required.

Visit “Vine Zero” in the Bay of Islands

While the Mission Estate Winery may be the oldest in New Zealand, the first successful wine-making venture occurred in 1833 in the Bay of Islands in the Far North. British Resident James Busby made New Zealand’s first wine at his home in Waitangi from grapes grown on vines planted by missionary Samuel Marsden in 1819. Most of New Zealand’s wine is produced much further south, but you can visit Marsden Estate in nearby Kerikeri, established in 1993.