Monday 5 Feb -- Matakana Wineries

Photos of the Day

Northward out of Auckland, over the Harbour Bridge, we were soon into an area of steeper hills, deeper valleys and thicker woods than yesterday, on our way to the Matakana Coast wine country. 

First stop, Omaha Bay Vineyard, at about 10 am, where there were several wines to try and an absolutely stunning view over mandarin groves down to Omaha Bay.

Our second stop was the Morris & James Pottery Works. Beautiful items and a nice  snack. We had time to take part of the tour of the creation process, and enjoyed watching a large cylinder of clay be transformed into a very nice pot, in just a few minutes.

 Lunch was at the very beautiful Ascension Wine Estate. It included a tasting of 4 of their wines and a good, nicely presented meal.

The final stop of the day was Ransom Wines. More spectacular views and interesting local wines in an architecturally unusual building.
By the time we reached the hotel, we were too tired to think about eating out, so we grabbed a few things at the convenience store and nibbled in our room, before falling asleep very early. Tomorrow we board the ship.