About

About Matakana Estate

At Matakana Estate, we are proud to be one of the pioneering vineyards of the region — with our first vines planted in 1996, making this nearly 30 years of winemaking on Matakana soil.

From the very beginning, our estate has been shaped by the land: a rare coastal climate, gentle sea breezes, and the slow rhythm of vineyard life just beyond Auckland’s doorstep. Over three decades, these vines have matured alongside our craft, producing wines that reflect both the elegance of the region and the character of our estate.

Today, Matakana Estate remains a boutique winery devoted to quality, authenticity, and the art of hospitality. Whether you join us for a tasting at our Cellar Door or stay among the vines at our luxury lodge, every visit is an invitation to experience the story, heritage, and beauty of Matakana — through the glass.

Nearly 30 years planted. Still growing. Still evolving. Always Matakana Estate.

Elingamite

Our Story

Matakana Estate’s story is one of heritage, resilience, and new beginnings — shaped by generations of winemaking tradition and a passion for bringing people together.

The roots of the estate trace back to Croatian immigrant Luka Lunjevich, who travelled to New Zealand in 1902 aboard the legendary SS Elingamite in search of a better future. During the voyage, the Elingamite tragically struck rocks near the Three Kings Islands and sank in heavy fog. Luka survived the shipwreck and later established vineyards in the far north of New Zealand, becoming part of New Zealand’s early winemaking history.

His passion for wine, the land, and family hospitality was passed through generations, eventually inspiring the Vegar-Fitzgerald family to continue the dream. In 1988, Peter and Paul Vegar established Matakana Estate on what was once a deer farm, helping shape the early identity of the Matakana wine region. In 1996, the first vines were planted on the rolling hills of Matakana, beginning the journey of the estate as it is known today.

The story of the estate remains deeply connected to the coastal history of the region and the enduring spirit of the Elingamite — symbolising adventure, migration, resilience, and connection across the sea.

New Chapter

In 2012, the estate entered a new chapter when Chrissy Lu and her new team took over the winery with a bold vision to revitalise Matakana Estate as both a boutique wine producer and destination experience. Driven by a passion for wine, hospitality, and creating memorable experiences, they helped shape the estate into a place where wine, food, accommodation, and community come together.

In 2018, Matakana Estate Lodge was opened, offering guests a peaceful vineyard retreat surrounded by coastal beauty and rolling vines.

Today, spanning 35 hectares, Matakana Estate is proud to be one of the pioneering wine estates in the Matakana region. From handcrafted wines and curated tasting experiences to vineyard dining and accommodation, the estate continues to evolve while honouring the heritage, history, and stories that built it.

Every bottle, every meal, and every visit is part of the continuing Matakana Estate story — a story of land, sea, history, and the people who continue to bring it to life.

Our Winemaker

Richard Robson

Richard moved here from his native Australia to take over the winemaking reins at Matakana Estate since early 2007. He has used his considerable experience to hone and refine our classically-styled varietals and blends to a consistently high level, focusing on bringing out each wine’s varietal and regional characteristics with minimum interference.

His winemaking journey began in New South Wales, where he gained his winemaking degree at Charles Sturt University. Richard went on to make wine for several respected Australian wineries, including Charles Melton, Yalumba and Plantagenet (where he was Chief Winemaker before joining Matakana Estate) and has also had experience in making wine in Rhone Valley.

Richard lives in Matakana with his wife and two sons, he describes Matakana as “one of the most wonderful places in the world, not only for growing grapes but for enjoying life”.

Our Wine

Matakana Estate has been at the forefront of local winemaking since this premium boutique wine region first emerged over 30 years ago. Nestled just a short drive from Auckland, our vineyard produces hand-crafted Chardonnay, Syrah, and Pinot Gris—showcasing the character of our coastal terroir.

To complement our Matakana-grown wines, we also source exceptional fruit from other renowned regions: Merlot, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc from Hawke’s Bay, and our ever-popular Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough.

Each bottle reflects a commitment to quality and a passion for showcasing the best of New Zealand’s diverse wine landscape.

Blogs

Matakana Accommodation Top 5 Holiday Stays

Jul 02

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