Ōhau Wines

There’s a certain charm about discovering a place that’s rewriting the rules, and Ōhau Wines in the Horowhenua is doing exactly that. A proudly Aotearoa vineyard that began as a bold idea on former farmland, this small but mighty winery has built a reputation for producing world-class drops in a region where no one expected to see vines.

From the moment you step into the cosy, retro-styled cellar door, it’s clear that this is wine country at heart. Bottles glistening with every hue are displayed neatly on rows of cubby holes, amidst rustic paraphernalia perched on top of shelves and on the walls. The space is relaxed and approachable, the team warm and chatty, offering tastings, bottle sales, and genuine kōrero that makes everyone feel at home, whether you can pronounce ‘pinot gris’ or not.

Ōhau Wines’ story started in 2006 when the land it sits on was planned for housing, but soil tests revealed its potential for viticulture. The river terrace soils, aided by the region’s long, dry autumns and cool nights, mirrored the conditions of Marlborough’s finest vineyards. And thus a sensible verdict was reached: fewer houses, more vines. Within months, rows of sauvignon blanc, pinot gris, and pinot noir took root, and by 2009 the very first vintage was already winning gold, proving the experts right.

Today, Ōhau Wines remains the only commercial-sized vineyard in the Horowhenua–Manawatū region, proudly flying the flag for local wine production. Their sustainably certified approach ensures that the land they nurture will thrive for generations to come. While they’ve since added chardonnay to their lineup, it’s the Ōhau Gravels Pinot Gris that continues to shine: a luscious, aromatic favourite found everywhere from local shelves to Waiheke Island.

Unpretentious, community-minded, and quietly trailblazing, Ōhau Wines embodies the best of New Zealand’s wine spirit, where curiosity, care, and a deep respect for the whenua come together in every glass.