Mission Estate Winery
Mission Estate Winery – New Zealand’s Oldest and Most Historic Winery
Located in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, Mission Estate Winery is one of New Zealand’s most iconic wine destinations. Established in 1851 by French Marist missionaries, it is recognized as the country's oldest winery and is often referred to as the birthplace of New Zealand wine. Combining rich history, award-winning wines, elegant architecture, fine dining, and panoramic vineyard views, Mission Estate offers visitors a complete wine tourism experience unlike anywhere else in the country. (Mission Estate Winery)
A Legacy Dating Back to 1851
Mission Estate's story began when French missionaries brought vines and winemaking knowledge to Hawke’s Bay. Over more than 170 years, the estate has survived floods, relocation, earthquakes, and changing times while continuing to play a pioneering role in New Zealand's wine industry. The winery introduced several industry firsts, including New Zealand’s first Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wine and one of the country's earliest barrel-fermented Chardonnays. (Mission Estate Winery)
The Historic Grande Maison
One of the estate's most remarkable features is La Grande Maison, a magnificent seminary building dating back to 1880. In an extraordinary engineering feat, the entire structure was moved nearly five kilometres in 1911 after severe flooding threatened its original location. Today, the beautifully restored building houses the Cellar Door and remains one of Hawke’s Bay’s most photographed landmarks. (Mission Estate Winery)
Award-Winning Wine Experiences
Visitors can enjoy guided tastings and self-guided wine flights featuring Mission Estate's acclaimed collection of wines. The winery produces a diverse range of varietals including:
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Riesling
Pinot Gris
Syrah
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
Bordeaux-style blends
Premium collections such as Jewelstone and Huchet showcase the best of Hawke’s Bay terroir and have earned numerous international awards. (Mission Estate Winery)
Cellar Door Experience
The Cellar Door is located within the historic Grande Maison and offers visitors the opportunity to sample wines while enjoying sweeping views across vineyards, Napier city, and the Pacific coastline. Historic talks and guided tastings provide insight into both the winery's heritage and New Zealand's winemaking evolution. (Mission Estate Winery)
Mission Estate Restaurant
The estate is also home to one of Hawke’s Bay’s premier dining destinations. The restaurant combines seasonal local produce with award-winning wines and panoramic vineyard views.
Highlights include:
Contemporary fine dining with international influences.
Seasonal lunch and dinner menus.
Extensive wine pairing options.
Indoor dining rooms and sun-drenched outdoor terraces.
Vegetarian, vegan, and children's menu options.
Spectacular views over Napier and the coast. (Mission Estate Winery)
Stunning Vineyard Setting
Perched on the Taradale hills overlooking Hawke’s Bay, Mission Estate offers some of the region ’s finest vineyard scenery. Beautiful gardens, historic architecture, mature trees, and rolling vineyards create a picturesque setting that attracts photographers, couples, and wine lovers throughout the year. (Mission Estate Winery)
Concerts, Weddings & Special Events
Mission Estate is famous for hosting the annual Mission Concert, one of New Zealand’s most prestigious outdoor music events. Over the years, internationally renowned performers have appeared on its vineyard stage, attracting visitors from across the country. The estate is also a sought-after venue for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations thanks to its elegant surroundings and exceptional hospitality. (missionconcert.co.nz)
Sustainability & Innovation
While deeply rooted in history, Mission Estate continues to innovate. The winery was a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand and became the country's first winery to achieve ISO 14001 environmental certification. Sustainable vineyard management remains a core part of its philosophy today. (Mission Estate Winery)
Visitor Information
Location: 198 Church Road, Taradale, Napier, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.
Established: 1851.
Open year-round for tastings and visits.
Cellar Door, restaurant, accommodation, and event facilities available.
Approximately 10 minutes from Napier city centre and airport. (Mission Estate Winery)
Why Visit?
Mission Estate Winery is much more than a winery—it is a living piece of New Zealand history. Whether you're interested in wine tasting, gourmet dining, heritage architecture, vineyard photography, or simply enjoying one of Hawke’s Bay’s most beautiful settings, Mission Estate delivers an unforgettable experience. Its combination of historic significance, world-class wines, stunning views, and warm hospitality makes it one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine destinations. (New Zealand)