West Auckland’s wine industry began in the early 20th century with settlers who originated from the Dalmatian coast in present-day Croatia. The vineyards around Kumeu and Henderson still feature names such as Babich and Brajkovich. In typical New Zealand style most of the wineries also feature excellent restaurants where you can partner the luscious results of previous vintages with good food. The Hunting Lodge restaurant at Matua Valley (09 411 8301, www.matua.co.nz) has the uncanny ability to be equally enjoyable for a formal dinner or a leisurely lunch, and Soljans (09 412 5858, www.soljans.co.nz) is perfect for Sunday brunch. All the West Auckland wineries produce excellent wines, but the chardonnay produced by Michael Brajkovich at Kumeu River (09 412 8415, www.kumeuriver.co.nz) is rated exceptionally highly internationally. For an overview of the area’s wine offerings, visit www.kumeuwinecountry.co.nz.