Waitiri Creek

Waitiri Creek Wines is a family-owned boutique winery located in Gibbston Valley, Central Otago, New Zealand.

The winery was founded in the early days of viticulture in the region, and was the first vineyard to be planted on the northern side of State Highway 6. It has been producing award-winning wines for more than 20 years using traditional hand-picking methods and sustainable viticulture practices.

What to See and Do: Visitors to Waitiri Creek can experience the unique Gibbston terroir and taste a range of exquisite wines. The winery offers tastings of their flagship Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, as well as other well-crafted wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Harriet Rose, and Drummer Pinot Noir. The winery itself is housed in an old church from the 1800s, and offers a charming and intimate environment to indulge in wine and beer tastings. For lunch, visitors can choose from generous food options on the menu and dine surrounded by gorgeous vineyard views.

When to Go: Waitiri Creek is open to visitors every day of the week from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit the winery is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warmer and the vines are at their peak. However, wine and beer tastings can be enjoyed all year round.

How to Get There: Waitiri Creek Wines is located just 30 minutes from Queenstown by car. Visitors can take State Highway 6 towards Cromwell and turn right onto Waitiri Road to find the winery. For those without access to a car, public transport is available. The Orbus Queenstown bus service provides connections between Queenstown and Cromwell, with a stop at Waitiri Creek Wines.

Overall, Waitiri Creek is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those who appreciate the history and unique characteristics of boutique wineries. Visitors can indulge in the best wines the region has to offer, all while learning about the fascinating history behind this family-owned winery.