Omata Wines Syrah Grapes View From Omata Vineyard Getting to Omata Estate

From the earliest European settlement, the Bay of Islands was a major focal point.

From the early 19th century, Omata was a key destination point for European immigrants to New Zealand, with Omata Estate’s founder – Captain John Wright – disembarking in 1835.

Shortly after his arrival with our fledgling nation’s first shipment of horses, Wright built the original Omata homestead and founded New Zealand’s first provisional store – supplying the army barracks at Te Wahapu and Kororareka.

Interestingly, Wright’s Omata homestead was burgled in 1837 and had the dubious honour of being recorded as New Zealand’s first aggravated robbery. As a national high court was not established for another four years (in 1841), the two culprits were sent to Sydney a trial which resulted in both being hanged.

In 1883, the Deeming Family purchased 70 acres from John Wright's estate. This land was passed down through generation until 1994 when the land was purchased and developed to make today's Omata Estate.

In 1998, shortly before building began at the estate, Omata’s old homestead was gifted to Russell Township and barged to its current site in the nation’s first capital.

Today, the 60 acre Estate sits in the sun-kissed glory of a private bay, fringed by a sun-kissed vineyard producing award winning wines.

Being surrounded by forests Omata Estate is surrounded by birds. Kiwis often call at dusk and insect catchers like fantails and kingfishers are always present.  Red crowned parakeets are numerous.  Herons after working the tidal flats fly over and often take a rest on a vineyard post. There are numerous pukeko, always an interesting bird to get close to.

Tuis are numerous.  There are several species of finches.  Introduced ring neck pheasants and californian quail are also plentiful. There is often a harrier hawk about.  Seabirds such as herringulls and caspian turns are also seen flying above the vineyard.  Paradise shell ducks and an occasional sighting of the flightless weka is also possible.