Setting
The easiest way to get here is to travel along Clifton Rd, past Elephant Hill and Clearview and turn right at the quirky, corrugated iron sign featuring a gannet sporting headphones. Located on an elevated site with panoramic views of surrounding vineyards, farmland, the changing colours of the Pacific Ocean and Cape Kidnappers in the distance, it’s jawdroppingly scenic.

Things to know
Rod McDonald is one of New Zealand’s most highly sought-after consultant winemakers, yet he’s finally settled down and found a home for his own wine range at one of the most laid-back, Kiwi beach house-like cellar doors in the region.

Our picks
The One Off Pinot Noir is a must (and the label is super-cool), the Quarter Acre Viognier has real luxe and charm and the Te Awanga Estate Gewurztraminer is lychee-laden loveliness.

Plus
Te Awanga Estate is home to the “world famous in Hawke’s Bay” Sunday Sessions, where local DJs and musicians keep the family-friendly crowds grooving till late in the day during the summer months.