8 Best Sights in East Coast and the Volcanic Zone, New Zealand

Situated by a small lake with the towering Te Mata Peak beyond, this vineyard has a stellar backdrop. The wines include single-varietal chardonnay, merlot, and syrah; a predominantly merlot blend called Sophia; and a pinot noir dubbed Aroha. You can sample wines at the cellar door; leave time to linger over a meal at Terroir, a French-inspired restaurant overlooking the lake.

Winemaker Gordon Russell produces merlot, syrah, and blends with cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, and malbec in various combinations, including a rare and expensive red simply called The Terraces. White varieties include chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling, verdelho, chenin blanc, and pinot gris. Look for the Winemakers Reserve versions of chardonnay, syrah, and merlot-malbec blend to find out what he has done with the best grapes from given years. The vineyard's position, in a sheltered valley overlooking the Pacific, ensures it captures full sun; it's located 12 km (8 miles) north of Napier, just north of the town of Bay View before Highways 2 and 5 split.

Surrounded by gardens, this classic winery—the country's oldest and set up by Catholic missionaries—stands in the Taradale hills overlooking Napier. Dating back to 1851, it deserves to be added to your "must-see" list. Award-winning wines, including the Mission Jewelstone range, can be bought or tasted at the cellar door. Learn more about the mission's history by joining one of the twice-daily tours, or order a meal in the on-site restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner daily (take a seat on the terrace for a terrific view of the vineyard and Napier). Also check out the website—the winery occasionally hosts concerts by big-name performers.

This is one of New Zealand's oldest and best family-owned wineries. Coleraine, a rich but elegant cabernet–merlot blend named after the much-photographed home of the owner, John Buck, is considered the archetypal Hawke's Bay red. Bullnose syrah, Elston chardonnay, and Cape Crest sauvignon blanc show similar restraint and balance. If there's any Zara viognier open (it's made only in tiny quantities), try it—it's excellent.

One of this region's most attractive wineries features rose gardens and a tasting room that overlooks the vines. The chardonnay and pinot gris are usually outstanding, but the showpiece is the reserve cabernet sauvignon–merlot, a powerful red that ages well. Syrah grapes are proving spectacular as is the Brookfields Hillside syrah.

Blending contemporary architecture with the traditional aspect of wine making, this stunning estate overlooks jagged rows of vines with expansive views from the terrace taking in the ocean and Cape Kidnappers. Sip a glass of wine in the sunken lounge, or enjoy a meal in the ultramodern dining room—it's an unforgettable experience. You can also stay in the winery's boutique accommodation.

The first New Zealand facility to attain organic certification specializes in making fine wine from estate-grown grapes sourced from single vineyards and grown in the traditional manner using biodynamic techniques. It's a great place to sample, sit, and relax. The vineyard is signposted off State Highway 2, about 11 km (7 miles) south of Gisborne.

At this boutique producer, specific wine styles are selected and handcrafted from each vintage, based on its Gimblett Gravels and Dartmoor Valley vineyards. All grapes are grown on either organic or sustainable sites and are vegan approved. Platters of local produce are available; you're also welcome to bring along a picnic as there are plenty of tables on the lovely grounds.