Tucked away in the South of the Island, North Canterbury spans 200km of coastline and lies at the foothills of the Alps. North Canterbury is a close-knit community of around 90 family-owned wineries. With some of the country’s most diversified land, from the volcanic Banks Peninsula to the clay and limestone soils of the Waipara and Waikari valleys, the region is made up of highly varied and interesting soil types. As a result, expressive and aromatic wines are grown here – particularly Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. As an internationally renowned destination for wine, food and travel, the region has an excellent reputation for wine cultivation.