Winetopia: World-Class Wines and Even Better Meals
New Zealand is a small but famous maker of wine, with a range of wineries and vineyards across the motu. Every year, the wine-loving community comes together in Auckland to celebrate Winetopia, a weekend-long wine festival that celebrates the richness and diversity of New Zealand wine.
The Diversity of New Zealand Wine
New Zealand’s distinct and diverse terrain and climate create the perfect environment for wineries and vineyards and give its wine a unique flair on the world stage. Considered some of the world’s most sustainable wine makers, the wine industry in New Zealand is deeply focused on the craft, with three-quarters of the wine coming from boutique and family-owned wineries and vineyards. New Zealand’s eight distinct wine regions offer the nation varying specialities thanks to the different soils and climate of each area. From the crisp and aromatic wines of Marlborough to the pinot noir of cooler Central Otago, to the deep and full-bodied cabernet sauvignon of sun-soaked Hawke’s Bay.
Winetopia offers an enchanting experience for locals and visitors alike, allowing them to take a journey across the motu through various glasses of wine. Set against the backdrop of the Auckland Viaduct, this vibrant weekend-long wine festival captivates stories of wine craftsmanship, aromas, and colours.
What is Winetopia?
Winetopia is New Zealand’s largest wine tasting event, where guests can sample and enjoy over 50 premium and boutique producers. This October 3-4, Auckland will host its 10th Winetopia event, celebrating New Zealand’s wine scene, where guests can come together to enjoy wine and food from top chefs. At the event, enjoy food from pop-up restaurants including Nanam, Hazy Tiger, Spiga and Little Culprit in the Premium Lounge. Indulge in crisp Sauvignon Blancs, refreshing rosé, and velvety Pinot Noirs, and enjoy Auckland’s waterfront views.
Best Restaurants in Auckland to Visit
An afternoon or evening at Winetopia can be paired with a meal at a local restaurant before or after the event. Make the festival a special day out with loved ones and friends. We have rounded up a few must-visit restaurants in Auckland to make a reservation at before or after your time at Winetopia!
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It's perfect for mezze, music and wine with a bohemian buzz.You need to try the lamb kofta or harissa-spiced cauliflower.Look out for velvet seats, candlelight and a global playlist that brings it all together.Read moreCaptivating a vibrant Spanish and Middle Eastern style, Carmen Jones is a great place to eat before or after Winetopia. Tap your foot to lively music, enjoy the bohemian atmosphere, and try their famous lamb kofta or harissa-spiced cauliflower. The lush velvet seats, a sprinkle of candlelight, and their philosophy of ‘bringing culture together through food and hospitality’ make for a memorable spot to spend an evening or afternoon with loved ones.
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It's perfect for modern Korean plates and good-times group dining.You need to try the milk bun with gochujang butter or spicy pork belly.Look out for high energy, bold flavours and the hottest chilli oil in town.Read moreDelivering modern Korean cuisine, Gochu sits above the city centre for a high-energy dining experience. Named after the Korean word for chilli pepper, Gochu harmoniously blends traditional Korean flavours with local ingredients and a contemporary twist, where they embrace bold flavours and crackling chilli oil. Be sure to try their milk bun with gochujang butter for a spicy burst of flavours. Tucked right into the heart of Auckland’s downtown Commercial Bay, Gochu is just a stone’s throw away from the Winetopia event!
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Read moreSituated along Auckland’s sparkling Viaduct, Oyster & Chop awaits seafood lovers and steak lovers alike. Since opening in 2015, they have been dedicated to delivering a steakhouse and oyster bar experience right in the heart of Auckland. Their menu showcases the finest beef and lamb dishes prepared by their state-of-the-art grill. They also have a wide selection of fresh seafood and are famous for their locally sourced oysters. Enjoy their personable hospitality and bask in the golden views of Auckland’s harbour and waterfront. You won’t be disappointed with this one!
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It's perfect for late-night drinks and French‑leaning bites with flair.You need to try the beef tartare or French onion toastie.Look out for moody lighting, local art and live DJ sets on weekends.Read moreFor meals with a French-leaning flair and a vibrant atmosphere, Paname Social won’t let you down. Located in Auckland’s CBD, this spot offers a contemporary twist on European dining, with a bold menu, moody lighting, local art, and live DJ music on the weekend, perfect for after your time at Winetopia! Their menu delivers moreish dishes such as goat’s cheese croquettes, cured salmon, escargot, and their signature beef tartare and French onion toastie. You can share the tapas, sip cocktails, and enjoy an evening of elegance at Paname Social.