Vintners & Artisans Of
The Pacific

Auckland

Auckland is situated on a narrow strip of land, flanked by two magnificent harbours to the east and west. The shallow Manukau Harbour opens out to the Tasman Sea to the west, while the Waitemata Harbour lies at the heart of the city centre and is Auckland's deepwater port. It has a vibrant waterfront that has flourished with the successful hosting of the America's Cup, and the trendy restaurants and waterside cafes are a constant hive of activity.

Known as the 'City of Sails', with a larger boat-to-person ratio than anywhere else on earth, it is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Every weekend the waters of the Hauraki Gulf come alive with a flotilla of colourful sails. The best way to experience the city is from the water, sailing around the attractive harbour or on a ferry cruise to one of the many stunning islands dotted about the Gulf.

Auckland is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in New Zealand, and acts as a major gateway to the rest of the country. Yet it is also one of the least densely populated in the world, covering an area twice the size of London but with barely a million inhabitants. It has a friendly small-town atmosphere and a relaxed pace of life.

Beyond the bustling downtown area, dominated by the southern hemisphere's tallest building, the Sky Tower, the city sprawls outwards, with low-slung buildings and wooden houses among leafy parks and walking tracks. The suburbs wind their way around picturesque bays and harbours and between volcanic hills that provide panoramic views over the city and mountains, encompassing numerous green urban parklands that are dotted with sheep.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is a stunning area of New Zealand located in the far north of the country. It is home to some 144 islands, making it one of the top destinations for anyone looking to explore some of the most pristine waters in the world. With its crystal clear waters, lush landscapes, and outdoor activities, the Bay of Islands promises a truly unique and memorable experience for visitors. 

The Bay of Islands is perhaps best known for its idyllic beaches. Swimming in its sheltered waters is a popular summertime activity, topped off with a picnic and glass or two of local wine. The beaches are often lined with greenery that spills into the water, offering visitors a glimpse into the spectacular beauty and diversity of New Zealand’s nature. 

The Bay of Islands is a nature lover’s paradise. There are countless opportunities to explore the region on foot or by boat. Take a cruise to explore the many bays and islands, or even hire a kayak to explore the coves and inlets that are inaccessible by road. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can go deep sea fishing, or take a dolphin-watching tour with experienced guides. 

The Bay of Islands is also home to some fascinating historical sites. Visit Waitangi, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, or explore Russell and Kerikeri, two charming towns with strong ties to New Zealand’s colonial past. Visit the Kerikeri Stone Store and keep an eye out for it’s resident, a large punga tree that is one of the oldest living trees in New Zealand. 

The Bay of Islands is an unforgettable experience for any traveler. An area full of natural beauty, immense cultural importance, and plenty of activities, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply to take in the stunningly unspoiled views of the islands, come to New Zealand’s Bay of Islands and explore one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Tauranga

The population center of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities. Along with its neighbor, Whakatane, this seaside city claims to be one of the country's sunniest towns. Unlike most local towns, Tauranga doesn't grind to a halt in the off-season, because it has one of the busiest ports in the country, and the excellent waves at the neighboring beach resort of Mount Maunganui—just across Tauranga's harbor bridge—always draw surfers and holiday folk.

Napier

Napier, located in the beautiful country of New Zealand, is a picturesque city that attracts visitors with its stunning art deco architecture, rich Maori culture, vibrant arts scene, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Situated on the east coast of the North Island, Napier is often referred to as the "Art Deco Capital of the World" and offers a unique and enchanting experience for travelers.

One of the biggest draws of Napier is its magnificent art deco architecture, which dates back to the 1930s. The city was devastated by a massive earthquake in 1931, and its subsequent rebuilds embraced the art deco style of the time. Today, visitors can enjoy guided walking tours or even hire vintage cars to explore the city's architectural gems. The Napier Art Deco Festival, held annually in February, is a must-visit event where the city is transformed into a living museum of art deco.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Napier has a vibrant arts scene that appeals to art enthusiasts and culture seekers. The city boasts numerous art galleries, showcasing both local and international artists. The renowned Hawke's Bay Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit for those interested in history, art, and Maori culture.

Speaking of Maori culture, Napier offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the indigenous heritage of New Zealand. Visitors can experience traditional Maori performances, visit authentic Maori villages, and participate in cultural workshops to gain a deeper understanding of the country's indigenous roots.

Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the natural beauty of Napier and its surrounding region. Cape Kidnappers, located just a short drive from the city, is home to a renowned golf course and the largest mainland gannet colony in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour to see these majestic creatures up close and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

For wine lovers, Napier is a gateway to Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's most prominent wine regions. This area is particularly known for its red wines, especially its full-bodied and complex Syrahs. Wine tours are readily available, allowing visitors to explore the vineyards, indulge in wine tastings, and savor fine dining experiences amidst the picturesque countryside.

Napier also offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports. Marine Parade, a popular waterfront promenade, stretches along the coast and is a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. The expansive beaches of Hawke's Bay are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing, with the region known for its consistent waves.

As for dining options, Napier offers a diverse and thriving culinary scene. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table cuisine and international flavors, there is something to suit every palate. The city is also renowned for its farmers' markets, where visitors can sample local produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade treats.

With its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, rich Maori culture, and natural beauty, Napier truly offers a unique and enchanting experience. Whether you are interested in history, art, wine, or outdoor activities, this captivating city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the hidden gem that is Napier, New Zealand.

Wellington

The capital city of New Zealand is located at the southern tip
of the North Island. Wellington is situated on a splendid harbour
and hemmed in by steep hills, creating a compact inner city centre
with a mix of historic and modern buildings. It is the second
largest city in the country, the energetic centre for culture and
arts, and the entertainment, commercial and political capital of
New Zealand with an air of pronounced sophistication and vibrancy.
Apart from its importance as the capital, it is the main departure
point for the South Island.

Also called 'Windy Wellington', it lives up to its name
especially in winter when the lashing winds from the Cook Strait
whistle through the wind funnels created by the high-rise buildings
of the central business district. The bustling, pretty waterfront
area is a sheltered refuge with a graceful promenade, featuring
shops, restaurants and various leisure activities. Brightly
coloured sails scud across the harbour, with the reliable wind
providing excellent sailing and windsurfing opportunities. The
ferry to the picturesque Days Bay, one of Wellington's best
swimming beaches, affords excellent views of the city from the
water. Dominating the waterfront is the Te Papa Museum, the pride
and joy of the nation that embodies the quintessence of New Zealand
and its people.

Lyttelton

Lyttelton is a charming port town located on the Banks Peninsula in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, historical significance, and vibrant arts scene, Lyttelton offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers.

One of the main attractions of Lyttelton is its picturesque harbor. Surrounded by steep hills, the harbor provides a breathtaking backdrop for visitors to enjoy while exploring this coastal town. The harbor is also home to the Port of Christchurch, which serves as a gateway for goods coming in and out of the region.

History buffs will appreciate Lyttelton's rich heritage. The town has a fascinating past dating back to the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century. Lyttelton was originally the port of entry for Christchurch, and many of its original buildings still stand today. The Lyttelton Timeball Station is a notable historical landmark that offers panoramic views of the area and provides insight into the town's maritime history.

For nature lovers, Lyttelton offers a variety of outdoor activities. The area is renowned for its scenic hiking trails, which provide opportunities to explore the surrounding hills and take in breathtaking views of the coastline. One popular trail is the Bridle Path, which was the main route used by early European settlers to access Christchurch. The track offers a rewarding uphill walk and is suitable for all fitness levels.

In addition to its natural beauty, Lyttelton boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and shops showcasing locally made crafts and unique pieces of art. The Lyttelton Arts Factory, housed within a converted warehouse, is a hub for creativity and hosts regular exhibitions and workshops.

Food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor in Lyttelton as well. The town is peppered with a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars offering delicious local cuisine and international flavors. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh catches of the day, while others can sample locally produced cheese, wine, and craft beer. The Lyttelton Farmers Market, held every Saturday, is a popular spot to pick up fresh produce and artisanal products.

In terms of accommodation, Lyttelton offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from boutique B&Bs, cozy cottages, and modern apartments with waterfront views. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the town's main attractions and provide a comfortable base for exploring the region.

To explore the wider Canterbury region, Lyttelton is conveniently located. Just a short drive away, travelers can visit the vibrant city of Christchurch with its bustling shopping precincts, thriving café culture, and captivating street art. The Banks Peninsula itself has a lot to offer, with other charming towns like Akaroa, which is known for its French-inspired heritage and beautiful harbor.

In summary, Lyttelton is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and artistic charm. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing coastal getaway, Lyttelton has something to offer every traveler.

Dunedin

Dunedin, located in the beautiful country of New Zealand, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a lively cultural scene. Situated on the southeastern coast of the South Island, Dunedin is known for its picturesque surroundings and friendly atmosphere.

One of the main highlights of Dunedin is its rich Scottish heritage, which is evident in the city's architecture, street names, and annual events such as the Highland Games. The city was established by Scottish settlers in the mid-19th century, and their influence can still be seen today. One of the most iconic examples of Scottish architecture in Dunedin is the Dunedin Railway Station, known for its stunning Flemish Renaissance style and intricate detailing.

Another must-visit attraction in Dunedin is the city's historic precinct, which is home to numerous heritage buildings and landmarks. Wander through the streets and admire the exquisite Victorian and Edwardian architecture, or delve into the city's fascinating history at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery and the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Dunedin. The Otago Peninsula, located just a short drive from the city, is a nature lover's paradise. Explore the scenic coastline, spot a variety of seabirds and marine life, or embark on a wildlife tour to see the world's rarest penguin, the yellow-eyed penguin, or the royal albatross colony at Taiaroa Head. Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, is also found on the Otago Peninsula and is worth a visit for its stunning gardens and panoramic views.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Dunedin offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. The city is surrounded by beautiful hiking and biking trails, including the popular Signal Hill track, which offers sweeping views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. If you prefer water activities, head to St Clair Beach for some surfing or take a traditional wooden sailing boat tour on the Otago Harbour.

Dunedin is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries, music venues, and theaters, showcasing a diverse range of local and international talent. The annual Dunedin Arts Festival is a highlight on the cultural calendar, featuring a wide variety of performances, exhibitions, and events.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Dunedin is also a food lover's paradise. The city boasts a thriving culinary scene, with a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and bars to suit every taste and budget. Don't miss the chance to try some of the local delicacies, such as fresh seafood, lamb, and the famous Otago wines.

Getting around Dunedin is easy, with a well-connected public transport system and a compact city center that is easily explored on foot. Dunedin International Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for visitors.

In summary, Dunedin is a destination that offers a little bit of everything. From its rich Scottish heritage and stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant arts and culture scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie looking for a new culinary adventure, Dunedin is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Sailing Dusky Sound

Cruising Doubtful Sound

Sailing Milford Sound

Cruising the Tasman Sea

Burnie, Tasmania

Burnie is a charming coastal city located in the northwest part of Tasmania, Australia. With its picturesque setting, vibrant art scene, and friendly community, Burnie offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway, this city has something to offer for everyone.

Nature lovers will be delighted by Burnie's natural beauty, as it is nestled between the stunning Bass Strait and the majestic Western Tiers mountain range. The city is home to several scenic walking trails, including the Burnie Coastal Pathway, which stretches for 10 kilometers along the picturesque coastline. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, lush greenery, and even spot native wildlife such as seabirds and dolphins.

If you are interested in history and culture, Burnie has a rich heritage that is waiting to be explored. The Makers' Workshop is a must-visit attraction, offering a unique insight into the region's history and local arts and crafts. Here, you can learn about the city's industrial past and watch talented artisans at work. The workshop also hosts regular events, exhibitions, and workshops, making it a hub of creativity and cultural exchange.

For art enthusiasts, the Burnie Regional Art Gallery is a must-see. With its impressive collection of contemporary Tasmanian art and rotating exhibitions, this gallery offers a window into the vibrant local art scene. The gallery also organizes workshops and events to engage visitors of all ages.

Food lovers will be pleasantly surprised by Burnie's culinary scene. The city is known for its delectable local produce and fresh seafood. From award-winning restaurants to cozy cafes and seafood shacks, there are plenty of options to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to try some delicious Tasmanian cheese and whiskey, as the state is famous for these products.

If you're traveling with family, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained. The Burnie Park is a fantastic place to spend a sunny afternoon, with its playground, walking tracks, and animal enclosures. Kids will love getting up close and personal with animals like kangaroos, emus, and Tasmanian devils. And for a bit of adventure, the Guide Falls Reserve is a short drive away and offers stunning waterfalls and picnic areas.

Burnie also hosts several exciting events throughout the year. The Burnie Ten, an annual 10-kilometer road race, attracts runners from around the country. The Festival of Brass showcases the finest brass bands, while the Burnie Show is a popular agricultural show featuring livestock displays, carnival rides, and entertainment for all ages.

When it comes to accommodation, Burnie offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. From boutique hotels with ocean views to cozy bed and breakfasts and self-contained apartments, there is something for everyone. The city also has excellent transport connections, making it easy to explore other parts of Tasmania.

In conclusion, Burnie is a hidden gem on the northwest coast of Tasmania. With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and warm community, this city has much to offer visitors. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, explore the local art scene, or simply unwind by the ocean, Burnie will surely leave you with fond memories of your trip to Australia.

Melbourne, Victoria

Australia's second-largest city and capital of Victoria,
Melbourne is the Land Down Under's most European in style, with
trams rattling through streets past historic buildings, parks and
outdoor cafes. The city centre is laid out in a simple grid
pattern, with wide north-south streets gently sloping down to the
Yarra River, crossed by a mix of narrow lanes, and the main
shopping streets such as Bourke and Collins Streets. The Central
Business District is easily navigable by foot, and if a rest is
needed after a session of sightseeing or shopping there are
numerous pretty parks to rest in, such as the Royal Botanical
Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens. The burgundy-coloured
City Circle tram is free, and taking a ride is a good way to get
your bearings upon arrival as well as explore the inner city.

Melbourne is a melting pot of different cultures, all brewed
together to create a dynamic, stylish city which, though slick and
modern, boasts a pleasantly sedate pace of life. Melbourne's
residents proudly assert that the city offers an incredibly high
standard of living and is wonderfully child-friendly.

A fierce rivalry exists between the cities of Melbourne and
Sydney, but local residents bask in the satisfying knowledge that
Melbourne beats Sydney hands-down on the cultural front, noted for
its wide variety of high standard performing arts, as well as its
sport. The city plays host to world-renowned sporting events like
the Melbourne Cup, Australian Open Tennis and Qantas Australia
Grand Prix.

Beyond the city, within an hour's drive, there are numerous
places worth visiting, including the Macedon Ranges, which is
Australia's spa capital and boasts world-renowned mineral springs.
The spectacular Great Ocean Road winds along the coast, passing
stunning rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles. One of the
most popular self-drive routes for tourists to follow is the
circular Great Southern Touring Route, which includes spectacular
scenery and takes in some of Victoria's most beautiful, scenic and
cultural attractions. Ultimately, the city is a lovely destination
for family holidays, for active adventurers, and for culture
vultures.

Cruising the Tasman Sea

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is Australia's most popular tourist hotspot, luring
millions of holidaymakers every year with the promise of sun, sand,
merry-making and culture. It is slick and smart, the streets are
clean, the parks sublime, the water in the huge harbour bright
blue, and the landmark buildings breathtaking. Sydney's population
is approaching five million, but it is easy to leave the frenetic
urban pace behind with just a simple ferry ride to the North Shore
for a bush walk, or a stroll along the harbour beaches, or any one
of a number of daytrips to explore the 'real' Australia on the
city's doorstep.

Just like its characteristic white-sailed Opera House, Sydney
seems to cruise effortlessly through nights and days filled with
myriad entertainment opportunities, sophisticated shopping,
memorable museums, and strings of beautiful beaches. It can be
exhausting to take it all in, even though the tourist precinct
where most of the interesting attractions are to be found is
concentrated in quite a small area around the downtown waterfront
and harbour.

The fact that Sydney is a thriving seaport and industrial city
has been cleverly concealed behind attractive pleasure and leisure
grounds and residential suburbs, making full use of the scenic,
watery geographical location. The harbour area is dominated by the
span of one of the world's largest arched bridges, backed by
towering skyscrapers.

Another plus for visitors is that, compared to most big cities,
Sydney offers excellent reasonably priced food, accommodation and
public transport. The city also has an efficient suburban rail
network, with its hub at Circular Quay in the city centre, while
full use is made of the waterways with ferries and passenger jet
boats plying to and from various points.

To the north of Sydney is the Pacific Coastal route, which
passes beautiful coastal scenery, laid back seaside communities
like Byron Bay, and excellent surf, with nearly 249 miles (400km)
of beaches to explore. Whale watching is popular in season and the
region is also dotted with numerous national parks and nature
reserves that offer plenty of hiking trails and kayaking in the
Myall Lakes. The Waterfall Way, which winds up to the New England
Tablelands, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, taking
in the vineyards of the famed Hunter Valley. To the south of Sydney
is Australia's only alpine habitat in the Snowy Mountains, where
winter skiing is the main attraction. In summer, the mountains
become a playground for whitewater rafters, fishermen, kayakers and
hikers, making Sydney a great travel hub.