Why Queenstown for wine?
Queenstown sits in the heart of Central Otago in the South Island, a region that has earned a global reputation for producing some of New Zealand’s most exciting wines. Its unique terroir – a mix of mountainous terrain, rocky soils, and extreme seasonal shifts – creates the perfect conditions for growing premium grapes. Hot summers, crisp winters, and long, dry autumns allow the fruit to ripen slowly, intensifying flavours and adding depth to every bottle. Pinot noir thrives here, producing wines with rich, complex character and vibrant red fruit notes, while aromatic whites like riesling and pinot gris also shine.
One of the best things about Queenstown’s wine scene is how accessible it is. Within a short drive, you can reach world-class wineries in Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn, and beyond, each with its own distinct style and charm. The region’s winemaking history dates back to the 19th century, but in the past few decades, it has transformed into a must-visit destination for wine lovers. With a mix of boutique cellar doors, historic vineyards, and modern tasting rooms overlooking spectacular landscapes, Queenstown offers an experience that’s just as impressive as the wine itself.
Exploring Queenstown’s wineries by motorhome
Campervan travel is huge in this part of New Zealand for good reason. The roads are stunning, the campsites are well set up, and there’s no shortage of places to park up for the night – whether it’s at a holiday park, a lakeside freedom camping spot, or near one of the region’s top wineries. Plus there’s no need to worry about packing and unpacking or rushing to check in or out. Just freedom and flexibility to go where you want, when you want.
You can visit a winery, take your time over a tasting, perhaps enjoy a good meal, then head to a nearby campsite or scenic spot to unwind – knowing you’ve got everything you need right there with you.
Of course, responsible drinking is key, so it’s worth planning ahead. If you want to enjoy a full day of wine tastings, you’ve got options. Either nominate a driver to stick to non-alcoholic drinks, or jump on a Queenstown wine tasting tour and let someone else take care of the transport. There are hop-on-hop-off buses that run between wineries, so you can relax and make the most of each stop without worrying about driving.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Must-visit wineries in the Queenstown region
Whether you’re after an intimate tasting, a long lunch, or a cellar door with a bit of history, there’s something for every kind of wine lover.
Wet Jacket Wines
Wine tasting by the water? Yes, please. Wet Jacket Wines brings together great wine, a bit of history, and a seriously relaxed vibe – all in a prime spot at Queenstown Marina. This isn’t your typical vineyard setting, but that’s part of the appeal. Instead of rolling hills, you’ll find a stylish, waterside tasting space where you can sip Central Otago wines while watching boats come and go.
The name Wet Jacket comes from a remote arm of Fiordland, and that connection to the wild landscapes of New Zealand runs through everything they do. Their pinot noir is a standout, but you’ll also find a line-up of crisp whites, including sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, and chardonnay.
Tastings here are unhurried and down-to-earth, with staff who know their stuff but keep things fun. If you find a favourite, you can stock up on bottles to take away or join their Providores Wine Club for exclusive releases. Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s worth booking ahead, especially during peak season.
Amisfield Restaurant & Cellar Door
A winery with its own award-winning restaurant? That’s always a good sign. Just a short drive from Queenstown, Amisfield is known for its organic, single-estate wines and a dining experience that’s worth making time for.
The cellar door offers guided tastings where you can sample their signature pinot noir alongside aromatic whites like riesling and chenin blanc. But if you want to take things up a notch, book a table at the restaurant. The kitchen follows a ‘trust the chef’ approach, serving multi-course menus that change with the seasons. Ingredients are sourced locally – sometimes foraged just hours before they hit the plate – so no two visits are ever quite the same.
The setting makes it even better. Overlooking Lake Hayes, with the Pisa mountain range in the background, it’s the kind of place where a long lunch can easily stretch into the afternoon. If you’re travelling by campervan, it’s worth planning a stop here – not just for the wine, but for the full experience.
Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen
At the cellar door, you’ll find a range of wines that reflect the best of Central Otago, with pinot noir taking centre stage alongside fresh, fruit-driven whites. Tastings are relaxed and informative, making it easy to discover a new favourite. If you’re after more than just a sip, the Artisan Kitchen is well worth a visit. Open seven days a week, the restaurant serves a menu designed to complement Mora’s wines, with an emphasis on fresh, regional produce.
Gibbston Valley Winery & Cellar Door
If you’re into wine, cheese, and a bit of history, Gibbston Valley Winery is a must-visit. As one of the pioneers of Central Otago’s wine scene, it’s home to some of the region’s oldest vineyards – and still produces some of the best pinot noir around.
The cellar door is open daily for tastings, where you can try a range of wines, from classic pinot noir to crisp whites. But the real highlight? The wine cave. Carved into the schist rock, it’s the country’s largest wine cave and offers a unique setting to taste and learn about Gibbston Valley’s winemaking process.
Beyond the wine, there’s plenty to keep you around. The cheesery and deli serve up artisan cheeses that pair perfectly with a glass of wine, and the onsite restaurant is a great spot for a long lunch. If you're planning a proper wine-filled day, consider joining one of their cave and winery tours – it’s a great way to get the full experience.
Peregrine Wines
Some wineries impress with their wine, others with their architecture – Peregrine does both. Its striking wing-shaped building is one of the most recognisable cellar doors in Central Otago, a nod to the native falcon (kārearea) that the winery is named after.
Peregrine is best known for its pinot noir, but its riesling, chardonnay, and pinot gris are just as worth exploring. The focus here is on organic and biodynamic farming, with a hands-on approach that allows the wines to truly reflect the region’s character. Tastings are available at the cellar door, where knowledgeable staff can guide you through the range.
If you appreciate design as much as you do wine, this is a stop worth making on your travel itinerary. The winery's sleek, modern structure stands in contrast to the rugged landscapes around it, making for an experience that’s as much about the setting as it is about what’s in your glass.
Planning your campervan winery tour
Travelling by campervan is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore Queenstown’s wineries. But a little planning goes a long way, so here are a few tips to help make your trip smooth and stress-free.
Book in advance
While some wineries accept walk-ins, the more popular spots – especially those with restaurants or guided tastings – can book out quickly. It’s worth reserving your tastings and meals ahead of time, particularly in peak seasons like summer and autumn.
Plan for a designated driver
New Zealand has strict drink-driving laws, and safety should always come first. If you’re planning a day of wine tasting, nominate a driver who’ll stick to non-alcoholic options. Many wineries also offer winery bus tours or private transport services, so you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.
Choose the best time to visit
Each season brings something different to the wineries.
-
Summer (December–February) is ideal for outdoor tastings, long lunches, and soaking up the sunshine with a glass of crisp white or rosé. Many wineries have beautiful courtyards and garden seating, making the most of the warm weather. It’s also peak season, so booking ahead is a good idea.
-
Autumn (March–May) is when the vineyards put on a show, with golden and red hues stretching across the landscape. It’s also harvest season, meaning there’s an extra buzz around the wineries as grapes are picked and the next vintage begins. Some wineries offer special harvest events, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.
-
Winter (June–August) is much quieter, but that’s part of the charm. Think cosy fireside tastings, rich pinot noirs, and hearty meals designed for colder days. Many wineries slow down in winter, creating a more intimate experience where you can take your time and chat with winemakers.
-
Spring (September–November) is all about renewal. The vines are bursting back to life, the days are getting longer, and the first releases of the year’s whites start appearing. It’s a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds but still want to enjoy mild weather and lively cellar doors.
Know the road rules
When driving a maui campervan in Queenstown and beyond, it’s important to be aware of local road rules and any restrictions that apply to your vehicle. One key rule to note is that maui campervans are not permitted to drive on Crown Range Road between Queenstown and Wānaka. While it’s a popular route, the road’s sharp corners and high-altitude conditions make it unsuitable for larger vehicles.
Instead, take the alternative route via Cromwell, which offers a smooth, well-maintained highway with plenty of scenic stops along the way. This route takes you through the Kawarau Gorge, past vineyards, and alongside Lake Dunstan, making the drive just as enjoyable.
Before setting off, it’s also worth familiarising yourself with New Zealand’s road rules, including speed limits, one-lane bridges, and give-way rules. For a full guide to driving safely and confidently in a campervan, check out our guide to driving in New Zealand.
Download the thl Roadtrip app
The thl Roadtrip app is a great tool for finding campsites, freedom camping spots, and dump stations. It also includes handy travel guides and video tutorials to help you get the most out of your campervan experience.
Making the most of your Queenstown experience
A winery tour is just one part of what makes Queenstown such an incredible destination. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, scenic walks, or more incredible food and drink experiences, there’s plenty to add to your itinerary.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Get your thrills
If you like to balance wine tasting with something more high-energy, Queenstown has you covered. From bungy jumping to jet boating, there’s no shortage of ways to get your heart racing. Shotover Jet’s high-speed rides through narrow canyons are a local favourite, or if you’re feeling extra brave, take the leap off the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the world’s first commercial bungee site.
Scenic walks and hikes
Prefer to keep things a little more grounded? Queenstown is surrounded by walking tracks that range from gentle lakeside strolls to full-day hikes with spectacular views. Whether you’re after a short scenic walk or something more challenging, there are plenty of options to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Check out some of the best walks and hikes near Queenstown to find a route that suits you.
Explore Queenstown town centre
After a day of wine tasting, take some time to wander through Queenstown’s town centre. It’s packed with boutique shops, galleries, and lively bars – perfect for an evening out.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to make the most of Queenstown after dark, check out our guide on things to do at night in Queenstown.
More food and drink experiences
Queenstown’s wine scene is just the beginning – the food scene is just as impressive. Whether it’s a lakeside fine-dining experience, a cosy café, or the famous Fergburger, there’s no shortage of places to indulge.
For more recommendations, take a look at our foodie’s guide to Queenstown.
Make it part of a bigger road trip
A Queenstown winery tour is even better when it’s part of an extended South Island road trip. If you’re planning a campervan road trip, consider including a wine tasting experience in one of these routes:
-
The South Island Queenstown Loop – a scenic loop taking in lakes, mountains, and must-visit towns.
-
Breathtaking 14-Day South Island Road Trip – the ultimate South Island experience, covering everything from fjords to wine country.
-
South Island Winery Tours – a route designed for wine lovers, showcasing the best cellar doors across the island.
Start your campervan adventure today
Travelling by campervan lets you experience Queenstown’s wineries at your own pace, with the flexibility to stay longer at the places you love. No need to rush from one stop to the next – just enjoy the journey, soak in the views, and make the most of the region’s food and wine.
Ready to hit the road? Book your maui campervan today and explore New Zealand’s best wineries, scenic drives, and unforgettable experiences – all on your terms.