Located in the south of New Zealand's South Island, this region is world-famous for its Pinot Noir, and more recently its Pinot Gris. The long sunshine hours, clean air and pure water make the region ideal for growing vines and producing the finest wines.

What a place for a vineyard, overlooking Lake Wanaka and the picturesque Ruby Island where all of Rippon’s vines are planted. The high sunshine hours and pure alpine air in Central Otago provide the ideal climate to produce some of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs and that’s what Rippon Winery is famous for.

This boutique winery is just down the road from the aforementioned Mount Difficulty and is just as delightful. Their cellar door is by appointment only, but offers great insight into their award-winning Pinot Noirs. They are truly passionate about sharing their love of wine with anyone who is interested.

My favourite of all the vineyards we visited. Located just outside of Queenstown, Amisfield produces some extraordinary wines. I was particularly partial to their refreshing Pinot Gris, but picking a favourite is a challenge. Trust the chef at the iconic bistro and let him whip you up your most memorable meal in New Zealand using all local and organic produce.

Waiheke Island is a beautiful and unique destination off the coast of Auckland that grows and produces its own wines. Most famous for its rich reds, particularly the full-bodied Syrah, but lately there has been a boom in production of white wines on the island. There are few places in the world where you can go vineyard-hopping on an island as rugged and charming as this one.

Cable Bay spoils guests with its outstanding location overlooking rows of vines and the sea in the distance. Get comfy on one of their slouchy beanbags and watch the sunset with a glass of wine in hand. They make exceptional reds made with grapes grown on Waiheke Island, but you would be silly not to stay for a bite to eat as well.

This recently renovated cellar door looks more like a Spanish church from the outside, but there’s no confusing it for a vineyard once you’ve stepped through the doors. Opt for a seat on the sun-drenched terrace which overlooks a blanket of vines. The estate also features a microbrewery, so hop fans can oft for beer tasting in place of wine tasting.

Set amongst lavender bushes and manicured gardens, it’s easy to see why Mudbrick is often picked as a wedding venue. This award-winning vineyard also houses a bare bones bistro with a fantastic menu and loyal following.

Marlborough is world-famous for its Sauvignon Blancs, producing and exporting them all across the globe. The landscape is made up of vineyards as far as the eye can see.

Hans Herzog is a unique artisan vineyard that produces all of its own organic wines from seed to bottle. All of the wines are grown and produced in New Zealand, but inspired by the Herzog Swiss heritage. The hidden courtyard surrounded by lavender bushes, roses and vines is an idyllic spot to enjoy one of their wines and a bite at their bistro. Reservations must be made.