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Surprising Winery Gems A Stone’s Throw From Christchurch

Wineries Where You Wouldn’t Expect Them

We all know the North Canterbury wine trail is the place to sample New Zealand’s finest vintages. It’s one of the country’s fastest growing wine regions – more than 90 vineyards jostle for position among North Canterbury’s unique land formations and growing climates.

But true wine connoisseurs know that some of the best wineries can be hidden in plain sight. Venture off the beaten track and explore The Central South Island’s cellar doors where you’d least expect them, all within a stone's throw from Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Birds eye view of dinner plates filled with food at Tussock Hill Vineyard Christchurch.
Credit: Neat Places

Tussock Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door, Christchurch

Who knew that the rocky slopes of the Port Hills would be the perfect spot for a winery? Tussock Hill certainly did, and it’s paid off. The 10-acre vineyard boasts expansive views overlooking Ōtautahi Christchurch, with a cellar door restaurant showcasing their organic wines and local produce. Pop in for lunch and sip on a premium Pinot Noir, crafted with hand-picked grapes from a 20-year-old vine.

210 Huntsbury Avenue, Christchurch

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Cellar door open sign of a hare saying cellar door is open at Cross Hares Winery.

Cross Hares Vineyard, Selwyn

Little did you know that the gateway to Banks Peninsula is home to an award-winning cellar door. Shrouded by trees and farmland, Cross Hares Vineyard can be hard to see at first, but if you look closely, you’ll see the boutique winery tucked away from the main road towards Akaroa. Named after the hares that run wild between the vines, Cross Hares is best known for their fruity, silky-smooth vintages.

1269 Christchurch Akaroa Road, Tai Tapu

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Straight 8 Winery sign on side of the road.

Straight 8 Estate, Selwyn

Don’t blink too fast, or you might miss this award-winning vineyard while travelling along State Highway 1. Named after their 1935 Railton Light Sports vintage car that lives on site, Straight 8 Estate is where you’ll discover "seriously drinkable wine." After Georgie the vineyard dog gives you a welcoming sniff, relax amongst the vines as you taste-test your way through Straight 8’s range of Rieslings, rosés, pinot noirs and chardonnays.

2321 Main South Road, Burnham

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Sparkling wine bottle and platter of nibbles at Melton Estate Winery.

Melton Estate, Selwyn

Nestled in the heart of West Melton’s green pastures, Melton Estate is the whole package, complete with a boutique winery, restaurant and events venue. Pick between 9 different wine varieties to sample as you walk among the vines with the owners! Or sit down for a locally sourced Winery Lunch that pairs perfectly with the grapes that grow around you.

Weedons Ross Road, West Melton

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