WINE
& PLAY
ACROSS THE DITCH
6 family-friendly New Zealand wineries
If you thought escaping to a winery or two was off the cards because you’re a parent now, think again! We hope these options fulfil all of your New Zealand holiday ideas, and you and the fam are able to enjoy these kid-friendly cellar doors.
New Zealand is home to some of the best wines in the world. If visiting a winery in Aotearoa isn’t on your bucket list, you need to add it! You’ll be pleased to know your whole family, including the little ones, can enjoy the experience with you.
Here’s a roundup of cellar doors where parents can enjoy a guilt-free glass of wine or two. While the little ones are occupied, imagine soaking up the afternoon sun surrounded by luxurious views of the vineyards, with your favourite Pinot in hand.
Wild on Waiheke, Waiheke Island
One of the most popular wineries on the island, Wild on Waiheke has a fun and relaxed vibe. This winery caters for all-weather days and is a great spot to grab lunch and hang out with the family, while enjoying a bottle of wine. Kids are kept entertained in the children’s playground, sandpit and trampoline, allowing mum and dad to enjoy a pint of hand-crafted beer, or a chilled rosé.
2
Amisfield Vineyard, Central Otago
Set against the backdrop of the majestic Pisa mountain range, Amisfield is one of the largest single estate vineyards in the area. With its distinctive sloping roof echoing the mountains behind it, Amisfield's modern winery sits harmoniously within its rustic surroundings. You can build your own degustation from a selection of dishes made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The kids can play on the petanque court and the tractors – which are always a hit!
3. Craggy Range Winery, Hawke’s Bay
In 2020, Craggy Range was named number 17 in the World’s Best Vineyards 2020 alongside some of the world's most respected wineries: names like France's Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Margaux. While you enjoy a wide variety of wines, the kids are able to choose something off the children’s menu. You’re also able to take a walk around the gardens, including a vegetable garden, as well as drink in the amazing views.
4. Palliser Winery, Martinborough
This stylish cellar door is open all year round. Located in the North Island with beautiful views of the lawns and grapevines, you’ll enjoy a bottle of wine with a cheese platter sourced from local produce. Experience a lovely tasting experience with a wide variety of wines, and the kids will be occupied with toys the venue provides, as well as a play area.
5
Carrick Winery & Restaurant, Queenstown
Carrick Winery shows off a beautiful view, as well as a great range of wines. There is also a kids’ menu available, as well as a lovely lawn next to the restaurant for the kids to run around on. Plus, there are a range of toys for the little ones to play with, as well as highchairs and picnic rugs available to use.
Rippon Vineyard, Central Otago
Rolfe Mills and his wife Lois began by planting experimental vines on their high country station, and then, in 1982, the commercial planting of the 15ha that makes up Rippon today, with its biodynamic farming, wild ferments, no irrigation to produce fruit and wines which are true to their place. They offer a tasting selection of wines all grown and produced on the lakeside farm, and a lovely kids’ menu for the little ones.
