Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venues: Matawhero Wines & TW Wines, Gisborne, New Zealand
Tickets: Available at gisbornewineandfoodfestival.co.nz
🌿 Why You Can’t Miss the Gisborne Wine & Food Festival
Nestled on the sunny east coast of New Zealand, Gisborne — or the region of Tairāwhiti in Māori — is famous for being the first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. But it’s also renowned for its rich winemaking heritage, vibrant food culture, and laid-back coastal charm. The Gisborne Wine & Food Festival 2025 brings all of this together in one unforgettable day.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur, a foodie, or just looking for a fun long-weekend experience, this festival showcases the best of the region: world-class wines, gourmet local food, live music, and beautiful vineyard landscapes.
🍷 Featured Wineries
Matawhero Wines
A pioneer of Gisborne winemaking, Matawhero Wines has been producing distinctive wines for decades. The 2026 festival will highlight their rich legacy, including tastings of their renowned Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Viognier, and Pinot Gris. Festival-goers can also enjoy guided vineyard tours, live music, and masterclasses led by the winemakers themselves — an ideal opportunity to learn about the art and science of wine production.
TW Wines
TW Wines offers bold and elegant wines set against the stunning backdrop of Gisborne’s Golden Slopes. Visitors can expect not only top-tier reds and whites but also immersive experiences like behind-the-scenes vineyard tours, wine pairing sessions, and live music performances that perfectly complement the scenic surroundings.
🍴 Gourmet Food & Local Delights
No festival is complete without incredible food, and Gisborne delivers. Expect:
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Artisan food stalls and local producers showcasing fresh, sustainable ingredients
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Wood-fired pizza, gourmet sandwiches, and coastal-inspired dishes
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Wine and food pairing sessions to elevate your tasting experience
The festival strongly promotes the region’s culinary heritage, giving visitors a true taste of Tairāwhiti’s bounty.
🎶 Live Music & Atmosphere
From the moment you arrive, live music sets the tone. Local and visiting musicians create a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for wandering through vineyards, enjoying a glass of wine, and sampling local foods.
🚌 Logistics & Accessibility
One of the festival’s key advantages is convenience:
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Free shuttle service: Your ticket includes return bus transport from central Gisborne to each winery and back.
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VIP upgrades: VIP ticket holders enjoy priority entry, exclusive restrooms, a private VIP area, and complimentary wine tastings.
🏄 Explore Gisborne While You’re Here
While visiting Gisborne for the festival, take the chance to explore the region’s beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture. Blitz Surf Shop, located at 34 Wainui Road, is a must-visit. This local surf store offers a wide range of surfboards, wetsuits, skateboards, and streetwear. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, the friendly staff provide expert advice, gear recommendations, and helpful tips for catching the best waves around Gisborne. Check out their range while you’re in town and take home a piece of the local surf lifestyle.
🗺️ Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your Gisborne Wine & Food Festival experience:
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Book early: Accommodations in Gisborne fill up quickly over Labour Weekend.
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Dress for comfort: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable footwear for walking through vineyards. Shop sun protection at Blitz Surf Shop
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Stay hydrated: With wine tastings aplenty, balance with water and enjoy festival food.
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Take your time: Explore both vineyard venues fully — don’t rush.
📌 Top Highlights to Look Forward To
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Expanded winemaker masterclasses offering behind-the-scenes insights
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Limited edition and festival-exclusive wine tastings
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Food & wine pairing experiences featuring Gisborne’s best local produce
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Live music performances creating a vibrant festival atmosphere
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Eco-friendly initiatives and support for local producers
🎟️ Get Your Tickets
Tickets are selling fast for the 2025 festival! Secure your spot now at gisbornewineandfoodfestival.co.nz. Choose from General Admission or VIP packages to enhance your day, and don’t miss out on one of New Zealand’s premier wine and food events.
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture vineyard vistas, live performances, and unforgettable moments with friends and family. Share your experiences on social media using the official festival hashtags to connect with other festival-goers.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Gisborne Wine & Food Festival 2025 promises an extraordinary celebration of wine, food, culture, and coastal charm. From world-class wines to gourmet dishes and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Extend your stay in Gisborne, visit local surf spots, explore the beaches, and stop by Blitz Surf Shop for expert surf gear advice — making it a weekend you’ll never forget.
