Welcome to Kuratau River Wines

Kuratau River Wines is more than just a fabulous vineyard; it’s a totally unique experience for all our visitors and guests. Located above the Kuratau River, on the edge of ancient Lake Taupo, we produce an exclusive range of wines from Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir vines planted in 2004. Reflecting our commitment to the community and the environment our vineyard has been accredited as “Sustainable” by Sustainable Wines NZ. Our philosophy is an experience you’ll never forget, that doesn’t cost the earth.

Our vineyard has been established on deep pumice and gravel soils laid down by the many volcanic eruptions that have shaped the region. Coupled with the warm days and cool nights during the summer ripening period, this helps produce wines with distinct, and delicious, varietal characteristics. To ensure our wines reflect the regional terroir, they are all produced from handpicked grapes harvested from our single block vineyard.

But there’s so much more to Kuratau River Wines. Why not join us at the Floating Rock Café and enjoy the delights of our wood-fired pizza oven to complement the wines. Open during public holidays and school holidays, you can enjoy our freshly prepared menu on the sunny deck overlooking the vineyard.

Will Shirer, who manages the estate, is the viticulturist and local raconteur, and also produces olive oil from his neighbouring olive grove. Every drop of oil is filled with a superb, clean and fresh flavour reflective of the local climate and soil type. We hope to replicate Will’s success once our own olive trees mature. In the meantime you can enjoy Will’s at the Floating Rock Café.

This beautiful, varied and historic region of New Zealand offers a tremendous range of activities to satisfy anyone  who’s interested in the best of our country. So why not extend your visit to a relaxing stay in our well-appointed luxury accommodation. Nestled between the rows of grapevines in the vineyard you may never want to holiday anywhere else.

And we’ve not even mentioned the lavender we grow yet, or the stunning images of local scenery available to purchase from our Winery & Café, so please join us in sampling our wines, olive oils, and food, and enjoy our welcoming accommodation. We think you’ll fall in love with the Kuratau River Wines experience.

Kirk Williams

Founder of Kuratau River Wines