Kumeu, wine district, rural community

Kumeu is a wine growing region. One of the three wine districts nearby Auckland, popular with locals intent on a day trip with a vineyard courtyard brunch on the agenda. Fascinating mix of personalities from rural farmers, up and coming urban souls and vineyards. Pop in for a bite to eat at Kumeu River Wine. Melba Brajkovich, youngest daughter of immigrant gum digger family, together with husband Mate built Kumeu River Wines making a substantial contribution to the New Zealand wine industry. The Brajkovichs are focused on and internationally recognised as producing world class Chardonnay. The vines are not irrigated and rely on natural rainfall. One of the distinguishing factors of Kumeu River’s wines is that all of the grapes are harvested by hand.