Auckland
Located in the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand's largest urban area. The Auckland region is the most populous area in the country. Auckland has a warm-temperate climate, with warm, humid summers and mild, damp winters. The average temperature in the Auckland region is 15.3°C. Auckland enjoys a warm coastal climate without extreme temperatures. The Vineyard Park with its volcanic soils, is planted with Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Verdelho.
Gisborne
The region covers 8,355km2, is located in the northeaster corner of the North island and is also referred to as the East Cape or East Coast. The population of the region is 46,8000 (June 2012), will almost three quarters of those living in the city of Gisborne. Gisborne is one of the sunniest places in New Zealand with average yearly sunshine of around 2200 hours. Temperatures of 38°C have been recorded and an average 65 days a year reach a maximum of over 24°C. Gisborne has bountiful sunshine but it can also suffer from frequent autumn rainfall. Gisborne's climate is generally characterised by warm summers and mild winters. The key grape varietals grown in Gisborne include those that need plenty of sunshine but ripen early on in the autumn, like Chardonnay. This us the varietal most planted by Villa Maria Estate in the Gisborne region.
Hawkes Bay
Hawkes Bay is located on the East Coast of the North Island. The main urban areas are Napier and Hastings. Hawkes Bay has 2198 hours of sunshine in an average year. Hawke's Bay's long, hot summers and cool winters offer the best weather for growing grapes. The climate is dry and temperate. The region offers myriad soil types and a climate ideal for growing a range of grape varietals. Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the major grape varietals planted in the region.
Marlborough
Marlborough is located in the northeast of the South Island. Blenheim is the region's capital. It also has the largest population of the area. Because much of the Marlborough region is sheltered by high country to the west, south and in some areas to the east, it is New Zealand's sunniest region with 2435 hours of sunshine. International demand for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has allowed the region’s wine industry to blossom. In recent years, Marlborough has seen newer varietals from this region flourish, particularly Pinot Noir.