Henderson, Kumeu and Huapai to the northwest of Auckland's city centre have a long winemaking tradition and boast an array of both world renowned and boutique wineries. Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are popular varieties grown with fine examples of Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir also found.

Auckland’s vineyards have more recently spread beyond Northwest Auckland into Waiheke Island, Matakana and Clevedon.

Waiheke Island, in the Hauraki Gulf, a short ferry ride from downtown Auckland, was established from the early 1980's as a premium district for the production of high quality red wines based on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It has since expanded to include Syrah, Chardonnay and other varietals that perform particularly well in the warm, dry summer climate of Waiheke.

Matakana, on the east coast about one hour's drive north of Auckland city is also producing some classy wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, plus reds based on Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

Auckland's most recent premium wine district, Clevedon has established small pockets of vines in the rolling farmlands about half an hour south of the city. A wide range of varieties is cultivated – including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Chardonnay, plus more unexpected varieties such as Nebbiolo, Sangiovese and Montepulciano.

Climatically, Auckland enjoys warm, primarily frost-free conditions with relatively high rainfall.   Auckland vineyards are established on clay soils of volcanic, greywacke or mixed alluvial origin.