The Landing NZ

We took part in an all-inclusive wine tour with a beautiful twist — arriving by boat through the Bay of Islands. From the moment we were picked up, the experience felt thoughtful and deeply connected to place. Our skipper, Brett, was incredibly warm, knowledgeable, and clearly very experienced. The boat journey itself was stunning, but the highlight for both my partner Nick and me was Brett’s in-depth historical overview of The Landing property. It was genuinely fascinating and added so much meaning to being there — easily our favourite part of the day. It was also very clear that both Brett and Anna truly love their roles within the business. As long-term employees, they spoke with real pride about the property, the family who runs it, and what it’s like to live and work in the area. That sense of loyalty and care came through in every interaction and added an authenticity that you simply can’t manufacture. Beyond the formal tour, Brett generously shared local knowledge, pointing us toward great restaurants and tucked-away coves that we later explored. Those tips proved invaluable once we left The Landing and really extended the experience beyond the visit itself. The food was lovely, and the wine room and barrel tour was engaging — it’s always interesting to see what’s being created on the land you’re standing on. Anna beautifully described their philosophy as “bottling a little piece of weather in the glass.” Each vintage reflects what the property experienced that year, with minimal intervention in the winemaking process — they let nature do its thing. Overall, it’s a refined, grounded experience that balances luxury with warmth and authenticity — elevated not just by the setting, but by the people who so clearly care about it.

A truly spectacular spot that would be hard to beat not just in New Zealand but anywhere in the world. We stayed at The Boathouse with our two kids (5 and 7) for a few days in early December, and it felt like our own private reserve, which, admittedly, is why you splurge on this kind of place. Laura welcomed us at the airport with a big hug and took care of us like her own children, responding within seconds if we sent a WhatsApp. The late night kiwi walk was too late for our kids, so, to alleviate their disappointment, she popped by the next day with two kiwi stuffed animals as a special surprise. Throughout our stay, Giulia, Lily, and others played the role of babysitter—which was not in their normal job description!—giving us little breaks that were much appreciated, while making the kids’ time extra fun: collecting eggs at the chicken coop, visiting the bee hives, making sandcastles on the beach. We did a boat trip with Gus one day around the islands, including a brief visit to Russell, and loved it. The nature is stunning, and he’s a wonderful guide, so friendly and knowledgeable. The food was exceptional. We had many restrictions, and they nailed it at every meal. We’re not big drinkers, so we didn’t do a proper wine tasting, but I’d expressed interest in a small taste, so “the tasting came to me,” as they said when they brought a bottle of each variety to the house for dinner one night. The gym is excellent, and there’s a gorgeous tennis court. I truly struggle to think of anything negative to say! Except that I fear we’re now spoiled for the remainder of our trip around the country.

We couldn't rate our experience at The Landing more highly. After being picked up by boat and comfortably delivered to The Landing, we really enjoyed the in-depth, relevant and personal tour of the property and historical sites. Experiencing the story from vine to tasting to enjoying with lunch has us hooked! This isn't just another vineyard, it has ecological, historic, architectural value too. Very professional, comfortable staff who made our visit all the more enjoyable. We will be back.

We had the best experience!!! Anna at the tasting room manager was super knowledgeable and gave all of us a fantastic look into the historical significance of the area! Wines where phenomenal and the view spectacular.

We did a day trip for a winery lunch and tour and WOW! It was an amazing experience from the moment we were greeted at the Russell Wharf for the boat ride to the property to the moment we arrived back. The staff were superb, engaging without being pushy and gave us an excellent tour of the property explaining the history and its place in the emerging Aotearoa New Zealand nation followed by a tour of the vineyard and the winery. The lunch was delicious without being too overbearing or fussy. We also had a wonderful tasting but then we are chardonnay fans and (when we went there) they are 51% chardonnay. We never felt rushed and there was plenty of time to do everything and our questions were answered. It's not a cheap experience but if it's within your budget I would expect you to get your money's worth.

We arrived by boat while touring the glorious Bay of Islands. From the moment Keith met us for the winery and history tour we felt the spirit and hospitality that this wonderful venue provides. The tastings reintroduced us to modern Chardonnay, which are completely different to the heavily oaked variety that we remembered from our early 2000s trips through Australia’s wine region and we were converted back.

The Landing was absolutely stunning , the property and its gorgeous villas personify natural luxury. I would thoroughly recommend experiencing The Landing and all that it has to offer, there is something there for everyone. From the breath taking views, great wine sourced from The Landing's own vineyard onsite, superb food, a plethora of activities, cultural heritage and not to forget the amazing hospitality. Make sure this place if on your "must do" list of New Zealand experiences.

The Landing is one of the most incredible properties in New Zealand. The mix of location, architecture and generous kiwi hospitality make this a unique and memorable place to stay. The friendly staff go out of there way to make your experience unforgettable and the food and wine, grown and sourced on location, is some of the best. There is loads to do from exploring the beautiful surrounding islands and bays to relaxing on site. It is hard not to fall in love with this NZ paradise.