The North Island of New Zealand is home to several wine regions, including Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, and Auckland. These regions produce a variety of wine styles, from full-bodied reds to crisp whites and sparkling wines. The North Island has a warmer climate compared to the South Island, which allows for the production of riper, more fruit-forward wines.
The main grape varieties grown in the North Island include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Merlot, and Syrah. Hawke's Bay is known for its full-bodied red wines made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, as well as its rich Chardonnays. Gisborne is famous for its aromatic white wines, particularly Gewürztraminer and Viognier. Auckland produces a range of wine styles, including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Merlot.
The main grape varieties grown in the North Island include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Merlot, and Syrah. Hawke's Bay is known for its full-bodied red wines made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, as well as its rich Chardonnays. Gisborne is famous for its aromatic white wines, particularly Gewürztraminer and Viognier. Auckland produces a range of wine styles, including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Merlot.
Despite the North Island being roughly 40,000 kilometres smaller than the adjacent South Island, it is home to more than 77% of New Zealanders.