Vineyards Honey and Black Sand Beaches

Visit the winery of historic Kumeu River Wines owned and operated by the Brajkovich family. Pioneers in New Zealand winemaking since 1944 they specialize in producing world class Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Sparkling Cremant made  only from grapes grown on their own eleven Kumeu and Huapai Vineyards. They also now have vineyards in Hawkes Bay providing grapes for their “Rays Road” Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Pioneers in New Zealand winemaking since 1944, Kumeu River specialise in producing Estate Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir  and Methode Traditionelle from grapes grown on their own ten Kumeu and Huapai Vineyards. Mate’s barrique fermented Chardonnay is considered one of the best wines in the country. After gaining his bachelors degree in Oenological Science in Australia the wine maker Michael Brajkovich MW became New Zealand’s first Master of Wine and has been a Chief Judge of the Air New Zealand Wine Competition.

You will enjoy a tutored tasting of five wines in the cellar door then go on a fascinating behind the scenes tour through the actual winery where you will be shown first hand the process to create barrel fermented Chardonnay. From the start to the end of the process, pressing grapes then down into the barrel room and finally back through the tank farm and bottling line. No other tour company can take you to see this.

Next enjoy the wines and cuisine at Soljans Vineyard Restaurant where there is a comprehensive and innovative menu including fish, steak, lamb, chicken, vegetarian and other dishes served fresh daily.

Please note lunch costs and beverages with lunch are NOT included in the price and can be paid directly to the restaurant.

Occasionally we also take lunch at the historic Riverhead Tavern depending on bookings and seasonal operating opening hours.

Established in 1937, Soljans produce Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and a small amount of Pinotage from their Kumeu Vineyard. As well there is Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Marlborough and Merlot, Malbec and Syrah from Hawkes Bay. Their coveted sparkling Muscat is always popular on a hot summer afternoon and their Tawny Port is one of the best in New Zealand and fabulous in winter.

Relax with a side trip through beautiful traditional rolling sheep and cattle country to visit the Muriwai black sand beach. See the rugged West Coast & regional Park meeting the Tasman Sea. See green rolling hills & stunning farmland. See Gannets nesting and flying over rock outcrops in the distance.  Gannets are migratory birds and the colony has few if any birds between May, June and July ) 

Try two different native flora Honeys including Rewarewa ( native honeysuckle) & South Island Alpine Blue Borage  Then try some Arataki Manuka UMF 10/MGO 261  honey and also some Manuka Doctor UMF12/350 MGO honey. This special honey is made from the native NZ Tea Tree (Sperma Scoparium) and contains the powerful antibiotic Methylglyoxal. This incredible medical honey is unique to New Zealand and comes with 35 years of University research into this extraordinary phenomenon. These honeys and other specialty honey products we showcase are for sale for those that would like to purchase them.

Finally depending on seasonal operating opening hours we the visit The Hunting Lodge Winery or the Vineyard Cottages for a flight of reds, whites or both before the return trip to Auckland

Cancellation

100% refunds are acceptable within 2 days prior to the tour dates 50% refunds are acceptable between 48 hours and 24 Hours from Departure. See Cancellation Policy in the Terms and Conditions at the foot of the page.