Omata Estate: a premier wine-growing site in the Bay of Islands
Located in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Omata Estate is a boutique vineyard that has been in operation since 1990.
The estate boasts a sunny peninsula that overlooks the ocean, and the vines grow on north-facing slopes. Omata Estate is one of Northland's premier wine-growing sites and has a total area of 70 acres, sharing boundaries with the original 220 acres brought in 1830 by James Clendon.
Private Functions with a view
Omata Estate is a perfect location for private functions. The estate is adorned with beautifully weathered wooden beams, red brick paths, and an abundance of climbing ivy, reminiscent of a vineyard you would find in Southern France. Visitors can enjoy the wines overlooking the best view in the Bay of Islands. The Omata Kitchen, a relaxed style eatery, serves gourmet platters and wood-fired pizzas, and the menu changes often. The estate strives to source items locally and grow small amounts of quality wine.
Guided Wine Tasting with Historical and Gastronomical Journey
Omata Estate is a popular travel destination for wine lovers visiting New Zealand. The vineyard is known for producing high-quality, small-batch wine, meaning every sip is truly one of a kind. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting that offers a historical as well as gastronomical journey through the story and life of Omata Estate. Wine tasting is available daily from 11 am to 4 pm at the cellar door.
Top 12 Wineries to Visit in New Zealand
Omata Estate is one of the top 12 wineries to visit in New Zealand. The estate was purchased from the local Maori in 1831 by Captain John Wright and was a key destination point for European immigrants to New Zealand. Omata Estate is now owned by the Cashmore Family, and under the guidance of Bruce Soland (viticulturalist) and Rod McIvor (winemaker), Omata has continued to produce high-quality wines.
When to Visit and How to Get There
Omata Estate is open from November to April, 7 days a week, from 11 am to 5 pm. From May to October, the estate is open 7 days a week, from 12 pm to 4 pm. It is recommended to visit during the summer season to take advantage of the warm weather and beautiful views.
Omata Estate is located 8km out of Russell, New Zealand, and can be reached by car, taxi or bus. The estate is a 10-minute drive from Russell, and a 25-minute drive from Kerikeri. Visitors should follow signs to Russell Inlet Road from highway SH11.