Our Place
Set beneath Glenmark Domain’s sweeping oaks, the charm of the location is every bit as delicious as the experience.
Our story
The North Canterbury Wine & Food Festival has been bringing people together for decades in a celebration of the region’s vibrant flavours, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Set beneath the majestic oaks of Glenmark Domain, the festival began as a small local gathering, championing the wines, produce, and artisan creations of the area. Over the years, it has grown into a signature event on the South Island calendar, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the unique character of North Canterbury.
More than just a day of indulgence, the festival is a showcase of the people and place that make the region so special. Local winemakers pour their finest vintages, chefs craft dishes from farm-fresh ingredients, and musicians set the soundtrack to a day spent relaxing with friends and family.
The North Canterbury Wine & Food Festival remains true to its roots – celebrating community, creativity, and the incredible bounty of this part of the world.
Getting there
Getting to the festival is simple, just head north from Christchurch on State Highway 1 towards Amberley. From there, continue another ten minutes until you reach Waipara, then turn left at the Hanmer Springs turn-off (Waipara Flat Road). Take the quick right onto Glenmark Drive and follow it through the Waipara township.
You’ll find Glenmark Domain just 300 metres further along on your right, on the corner of Glenmark Drive and Church Road. The trip takes around 45 minutes, and once you arrive you can park up under the beautiful oaks before joining the festivities, which run from 10:30am to 5:00pm.
Take the bus
Bus transport is available to and from the Festival with 11 different pick-up points including:
Lincoln, Halswell, Cashmere, CBD, The Carlton, Merivale, Northlands, Northwood, Rangiora, Woodend and Amberley.
Bus tickets close Wednesday 5 March at 5.00pm unless sold out prior.
$30 - $50 Adult Return
$15 - $25 Child Return
All prices are return fares, Christchurch to Waipara.
Coaches are proudly supplied by Bentley Coachlines
Your Exclusive Festival Experience
Treat your clients, colleagues, or partners to an unforgettable day in the heart of North Canterbury. Our corporate hosting packages offer the perfect blend of business and pleasure, with exclusive seating under the oaks, premium food and wine, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes conversation flow. It’s an opportunity to strengthen relationships, celebrate successes, and create lasting impressions against the backdrop of one of New Zealand’s most iconic wine and food festivals.
Spaces are incredibly limited, with only four hosting packages available making this a truly exclusive experience.
Raise a glass, share a plate, and host with style — all while soaking up the music, flavours, and charm of the festival.
“Thank you-so easy to gather information and an excellent day out, Love that you can buy wine by the glass or bottle-great for a group!.”
- Jeanine S., 2025 Attendee