Northland is New Zealand's most northerly wine region and the site of the country's first grape plantings. James Busby brought grapes into New Zealand around 1836. Today, vines grow in pockets from Karikari in the north to Mangawhai in the south.
The region's low, maritime position brings mild, humid and windy conditions, with almost subtropical growing weather and more ripening heat than elsewhere in New Zealand. Soils, aspects and microclimates vary from site to site, leaving Northland without one fixed wine style.
Chardonnay is a major variety. Riper examples can show melon, fig, stonefruit and citrus, while earlier-picked wines are crisper and lighter. Syrah is usually medium-bodied, with soft tannins and notes of spicy berry fruit, plum and flowers. Pinot Gris is often full-bodied and fruit-focused, with peach, spice and gingerbread notes. Most is unoaked, though some wines gain texture from seasoned oak.
Inside the region
1 named area
Each guide keeps its place within Northland clear, with a direct route back to the map.