Pukeora Estate: A Winery, Vineyard, and Event Venue in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
Pukeora Estate is a charming boutique winery, vineyard, and events venue located in Waipukurau, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand.
The estate is situated on a beautiful limestone hillside, covers an area of 5 hectares, and offers incredible expansive views of the surrounding areas, including Waipukurau and Waipawa, the river, and its surrounding farmland. The name Pukeora derives from the Maori language and means "Hill of Health," which makes sense given its history.
History of Pukeora Estate
Built in 1918, Pukeora Estate was originally a hospital designed to accommodate soldiers returning from World War I with respiratory illnesses like tuberculosis. The estate was purchased in 2000 by private owners, Max and Kate, who transformed the hospital into a vineyard, winery, and events venue.
Tasting Experience
Pukeora Estate produces an exceptional range of wines bottled under the Pukeora label. The estate provides an unpretentious wine tasting experience in a relaxing environment that showcases the dedication of the winemakers to their craft. You can also order their wines online by visiting their website to enjoy them in the comfort of your own home.
Accommodation Facilities and Event Venue
Pukeora Estate offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different needs. As the property is currently for sale, the accommodation facilities are no longer available for group bookings. However, there are options for exclusive bookings for the facilities that include sleeping accommodations for groups, large reception areas, meeting/conference facilities, caves, wedding facilities, picnic facilities, and dog-friendly areas.
Centre for Events
Pukeora Estate is an excellent venue for events of different types, from weddings and receptions to corporate events and meetings. The estate provides indoor facilities with a rustic, yet sophisticated setting suitable for accommodating large groups or hosting intimate events. The vast indoor facilities available for hire offer exclusive usage for events and provide flexibility to plan according to individual requirements.
When to Visit
Pukeora Estate is open all year round, and it is a perfect place to visit for wine lovers or anyone who wishes to spend time in a serene environment. The estate has a great view of the Hawke's Bay region, so it is an ideal location to visit during the late spring, summer, and early fall, when the vines have started to bud or have grown into bright greenery, and during the autumn, the grapes are ready for harvesting.
How to Get There
Situated in Waipukurau, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, Pukeora Estate is accessible by car from the region's nearby towns and cities, including Napier, Hastings, and Masterton. If you are traveling by air, Hawke's Bay Airport is the nearest airport that connects to other major cities domestically and internationally. To get to Pukeora, it is recommended to hire a car or catch a taxi or bus from the airport or in one of the nearby towns.
Pukeora Estate is a unique and fantastic destination for wine lovers, event enthusiasts, or anyone interested in learning the history of the estate. The estate's intimate atmosphere and breathtaking views make it a perfect place to unwind and experience fine wines while enjoying the beauty of the Hawke's Bay region.