Spring is a season of renewal in New Zealand, as the countryside comes alive with vibrant blossoms, longer days, and a burst of fresh produce. It’s also the perfect time to indulge in the country’s renowned food and wine scene. From the lush vineyards of Marlborough to the sunny orchards of Hawke’s Bay, spring is celebrated with an array of food and wine festivals that showcase the best of New Zealand’s culinary offerings. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine connoisseur, or just looking for a fantastic day out, these spring festivals are a great way to experience local flavours, meet passionate producers, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best spring food and wine festivals to check out across the country. These events highlight the seasonal bounty, feature top local chefs, and often include live music and entertainment, making them a must-do for anyone looking to savour New Zealand’s vibrant food and wine culture.
1. Marlborough Wine and Food Festival
The Marlborough region, located at the top of the South Island, is synonymous with world-class wine, particularly its Sauvignon Blanc. The Marlborough Wine and Food Festival is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious events, offering visitors a chance to sample wines from over 30 local wineries. Held in the picturesque Brancott Vineyard, this festival provides an immersive experience with guided wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and an opportunity to meet some of the region’s most acclaimed winemakers.
Pair your wine with a selection of gourmet food from local chefs, and enjoy live music as you wander through the beautiful vineyard setting. From seafood and lamb to artisan cheeses and handcrafted chocolates, there’s no shortage of delicious options to complement the wines.
Date: Early November
Location: Brancott Vineyard, Marlborough
Highlights: Wine masterclasses, food pairing sessions, live entertainment
Tip: Book your tickets early, as this popular festival often sells out quickly.
2. Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C!)
Hawke’s Bay, often referred to as New Zealand’s “fruit bowl,” is known for its vineyards, orchards, and fine dining experiences. The Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C!) is a month-long festival celebrating the region’s exceptional food and wine offerings. This festival isn’t just one event—it’s a collection of pop-up dinners, wine tastings, cooking classes, and farm-to-table experiences spread throughout the region, making it the ultimate culinary adventure.
Whether you’re keen to enjoy a long lunch in a vineyard, sip wine under the stars, or learn new cooking techniques from top chefs, F.A.W.C! has something for everyone. The festival showcases the best local produce, meats, and seafood, paired with world-renowned wines from Hawke’s Bay’s leading vineyards.
Date: Throughout November
Location: Various locations in Hawke’s Bay
Highlights: Pop-up dining events, interactive cooking classes, wine tastings
Tip: Make a weekend of it and explore the region’s farmers’ markets and local art trails between events.
3. Gisborne Wine and Food Festival
Gisborne, known as the “Chardonnay Capital of New Zealand,” is the place to be for wine lovers and foodies during the spring season. The Gisborne Wine and Food Festival is a celebration of the region’s boutique wineries, local produce, and laid-back vibe. Held at a single scenic location, the festival features wine tastings, gourmet food stalls, and a line-up of live music that creates a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.
The event is ideal for those looking to explore lesser-known wineries and discover unique varietals that are harder to find elsewhere. With plenty of lawn space to set up a picnic and enjoy the day, it’s a great choice for families and groups of friends looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.
Date: Mid-November
Location: Gisborne
Highlights: Wine tasting from boutique wineries, local food stalls, live bands
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting.
4. Toast Martinborough
Nestled in the heart of the Wairarapa region, Toast Martinborough is one of New Zealand’s most iconic food and wine festivals. Each year, the charming village of Martinborough transforms into a bustling celebration of local wine and cuisine, drawing visitors from all over the country. The event features a walking wine trail, where festival-goers stroll between the region’s top vineyards, tasting wines and sampling gourmet dishes created by local chefs.
With live music at each venue and a focus on pairing wine with seasonal dishes, Toast Martinborough offers a sophisticated yet fun-filled day out. The event is renowned for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, making it a great way to experience the best of the Wairarapa wine region.
Date: Late November
Location: Martinborough, Wairarapa
Highlights: Walking wine trail, gourmet food pairings, live music
Tip: Arrange transportation in advance, as accommodation in Martinborough fills up quickly during the festival.
5. Nelson’s Taste Tasman
Nelson, at the top of the South Island, is known for its sunny climate, thriving arts scene, and bountiful produce. Taste Tasman is a showcase of Nelson’s culinary diversity, featuring everything from fresh seafood and locally brewed beers to artisan cheeses and handcrafted chocolates. This festival focuses on sustainability and local sourcing, highlighting the best of the region’s produce, wines, and beers.
Held in a beautiful riverside setting, Taste Tasman is more than just a food festival—it’s a celebration of the region’s creativity and community spirit. With cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live entertainment, the event has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
Date: Mid-November
Location: Nelson
Highlights: Locally sourced food stalls, craft beer tastings, live cooking demos
Tip: Explore the Nelson markets and local art galleries to make the most of your visit to the region.
6. Waipara Valley Spring Festival
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Waipara Valley Spring Festival in North Canterbury is a hidden gem worth discovering. This boutique festival takes place in the picturesque Waipara Valley, a region known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. The event is smaller and more intimate than some of the larger festivals, offering a chance to meet winemakers and learn about the winemaking process firsthand.
With a focus on celebrating spring’s new growth and seasonal produce, the festival features tastings from local wineries, food stalls, and live entertainment in a stunning vineyard setting. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a glass of wine, and take in the views of rolling hills and vine-clad valleys.
Date: Late October
Location: Waipara Valley, North Canterbury
Highlights: Boutique wine tastings, intimate vineyard experiences, seasonal produce
Tip: Make time to visit nearby Hanmer Springs for a soak in the hot pools after a day of wine tasting.
Final Thoughts
Spring is the season when New Zealand’s food and wine festivals truly come alive. With a wealth of local produce, world-class wines, and spectacular settings, these festivals offer an unforgettable way to experience the best of the country’s culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring the renowned vineyards of Marlborough or discovering hidden gems in the Waipara Valley, there’s no better time to indulge in New Zealand’s vibrant food and wine culture.
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