Church Road Winery
Historic winery established in 1897, offering acclaimed wines, guided tastings, fine dining, and vineyard events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal service
Church Road Winery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal service
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic winery established in 1897, offering acclaimed wines, guided tastings, fine dining, and vineyard events.
"Roger gave our family the best wine tasting experience; 300% recommended!"
🎯 Choose Your Tasting Wisely
Options range from $25 to $75. The $45 'Flavour of Place' or $35 'Editions' tastings are highly recommended for value and variety.
🚗 Easy Access from Napier
Located in Taradale, it's a short drive or taxi ride from Napier. Consider a winery tour for hassle-free transport.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Wine Tastings
Cellar Door
Experience award-winning wines, from the flagship TOM to the renowned Chardonnay and Syrah. Choose from various tasting flights.
Historic Cellar Door
Main Winery Building
Step back in time at a winery established in 1897, with a rich history shaped by Tom McDonald.
Summer Concerts & Events
Winery Grounds
Enjoy live music and vibrant events like the Gwen Summer Sessions amidst the vineyard.
+1
Halliwell's Reserve Walkway
Adjacent to Winery
Hike this scenic track for stunning views of the region, starting near the winery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Wine Tasting in Advance
Consider a Guided Tour for Deeper Insight
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Choose Your Tasting Wisely
Options range from $25 to $75. The $45 'Flavour of Place' or $35 'Editions' tastings are highly recommended for value and variety.
🚗 Easy Access from Napier
Located in Taradale, it's a short drive or taxi ride from Napier. Consider a winery tour for hassle-free transport.
🍽️ Book Lunch in Advance
The winery restaurant offers a fantastic dining experience. Booking ahead is essential, especially if you plan a tasting beforehand.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might be walking around the grounds or up the nearby walkway, so comfortable footwear is a good idea.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Choose Your Tasting Wisely
Options range from $25 to $75. The $45 'Flavour of Place' or $35 'Editions' tastings are highly recommended for value and variety.
🚗 Easy Access from Napier
Located in Taradale, it's a short drive or taxi ride from Napier. Consider a winery tour for hassle-free transport.
🍽️ Book Lunch in Advance
The winery restaurant offers a fantastic dining experience. Booking ahead is essential, especially if you plan a tasting beforehand.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You might be walking around the grounds or up the nearby walkway, so comfortable footwear is a good idea.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The vineyard landscapes and historic buildings offer beautiful photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Church Road Winery for its exceptional wines, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and beautiful historic setting. Many highlight the personalized tasting experiences and the value offered by certain tasting flights. While some note it can get busy, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits for both tastings and dining.
"I would like to thank Roger. He gives my whole family the best of the best wine tasting experience.
I have been Church Road,3 /4 times. in the past experience, It was too many visitors and hard to get a quality time to learn wine, to know about Church Road.
Thank you , Roger. He is passionate to wine and share the best of his knowledge with us.
FYI , we booked a lunch time and got an excellent wine tasting before lunch. We tried the $45 & $35 wine tasting. The $45 is the value for money and best value to try all 5 $100 worth wine...
300% recommended."
Freddie Chan
"My husband and I really like this winery — we often come here to buy wine. This was our first time dining here, and we absolutely loved the atmosphere. It felt so peaceful and relaxing. We’ll definitely come back again!"
Elena
"Had an amazing tasting session!!
We booked the Inspired By The Bay tasting session and the lady who served us, Trina was amazing, thank you so much for being patient with us and taught us so much about how to taste and how different wines are made differently🙌🏻🙌🏻 loved it so much❤️"
M Terence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Church Road Winery is located in Taradale, a short drive (approx. 15-20 minutes) from Napier. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. For a more relaxed experience, consider booking a guided winery tour that includes transportation.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at the winery.
If you're staying nearby in Taradale, it's possible to walk. For those coming from Napier, it's a longer walk, and a taxi or tour is more practical.
While the winery itself focuses on the cellar door experience, many local tour operators include Church Road Winery in their itineraries and provide transportation.
For a multi-winery visit, booking a guided tour is highly recommended. This allows you to enjoy tastings without worrying about driving and often provides a curated itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance, especially for specific tasting experiences like the 'Icon' or 'Edition' tastings, as they can sell out.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the cellar door is open daily. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Tasting options range from approximately $25 for the 'Inspired by the Bay' tasting to $75 for the 'Icon' tasting. The 'Editions' tasting is around $35.
While walk-ins may be accommodated for basic tastings if space is available, booking in advance is strongly advised to guarantee your spot and preferred tasting experience.
Church Road Winery offers a rich history and winemaking experience. While specific tour details can vary, inquire directly or check their website for any available guided experiences or historical insights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond tastings, you can enjoy dining at their restaurant, explore the historic grounds, and sometimes catch live music events during summer. The adjacent Halliwell's Reserve Walkway offers scenic views.
Yes, Church Road Winery has a restaurant offering a dining experience. It's recommended to book a table in advance, especially if you're planning a tasting beforehand.
The restaurant offers a fine dining experience, often featuring dishes that pair well with their wines, such as grilled fish with beurre blanc sauce.
Absolutely! You can purchase your favorite Church Road wines directly from the cellar door to take home.
Yes, Church Road Winery hosts various events, including summer concert series like the Gwen Summer Sessions, featuring live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, manicured grounds, and vineyard rows offer picturesque backdrops. The view from the top of Halliwell's Reserve Walkway is also spectacular.
Yes, you're welcome to take photos during your wine tasting to capture the experience.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to contact the winery directly to inquire about their policy on drone photography.
The 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – often provide the most beautiful light for capturing the vineyard and winery architecture.
Consider capturing the historic architecture, the rows of vines, and any seasonal events or decorations. The wine bottles themselves also make for great flat lays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing some snacks for younger children, as the focus of the tasting room is on wine. If dining at the restaurant, inquire about any child-friendly options or if they can accommodate younger guests. The overall atmosphere is generally relaxed, but it's always wise to manage expectations for very young children in a tasting environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
These still offer a great introduction to Church Road's wines without the premium price tag. Instead of a full restaurant meal, consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the winery grounds (if permitted) or focus on a tasting and perhaps a cheese platter to share. Many visitors find the tasting experience itself to be the highlight, so you can tailor your spend accordingly.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting during a summer concert for a lively yet romantic evening, or simply enjoy a quiet stroll through the vineyards. The historic charm of the winery adds to the overall romantic ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion or anniversary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Tom McDonald
McDonald's influence extended beyond his own winery; he was a pioneer in advocating for quality winemaking practices in New Zealand. His dedication to excellence laid the groundwork for the country's esteemed wine industry, making Church Road a cornerstone of this heritage. Experiencing a tasting here is not just about the wine, but about connecting with this rich history.
Visitors can learn more about Tom McDonald's remarkable life and contributions during their visit. The winery's historical context adds a significant layer to the tasting experience, offering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into every bottle.
Exploring Church Road's Wine Offerings
Beyond these stars, the winery offers various tasting experiences that allow visitors to explore different expressions of their vineyards. Options like the 'Icon Tasting' provide access to their most prestigious and age-worthy wines, while the 'Editions' or 'Flavour of Place' tastings offer a more accessible yet equally delightful journey through their portfolio.
Many visitors find the $45 'Flavour of Place' tasting to be excellent value, offering a comprehensive introduction to their best offerings. When visiting, don't hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations based on your preferences. They are passionate about sharing insights into the unique terroir of Hawke's Bay and how it influences the distinct character of each wine. This personalized guidance can significantly enhance your tasting experience.
Beyond the Vines: Events and Activities
+1These summer sessions are a fantastic opportunity to experience the winery in a different light, with a relaxed and festive atmosphere. Attendees often praise the combination of live music, delicious food offerings, and the beautiful vineyard setting. It's a chance to create memorable moments while savoring the best of Hawke's Bay.
In addition to music events, the winery grounds are also adjacent to the Halliwell's Reserve Walkway. This scenic track offers a pleasant walk with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape, providing an active way to complement your winery visit.
Whether you're seeking a cultural experience or a scenic stroll, Church Road offers diverse activities to enrich your visit. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit