Waihopai Valley is located amongst the many vineyards in Malborough, and it is also where New Zealand's Intelligence Agency is based. Hence, the name "Spy Valley"! Its warm and dry climate with multiple underground steams in the region makes the land rich for farming before it became a wine region. It is now most famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. When visiting at harvest season (late March/ early April), the whole area will smell as if someone has just opened a large bottle of it!
We often spend long weekends visiting the in-laws in this region as it is only a 4 hour drive from Christchurch. We will be spoilt by their most awesome hospitality, and also by the serenity of the place. In exchange, we offer our services of berry and fruit picking, grape counting (there is method to the madness), house cleaning, cooking and entertainment of card and board games! Usually, there is more play than work!
I think my in-laws have done very well indeed in cultivating this 20 acre of land, making it sustainable. I reckon they would only do the 30 minute trip into town for friends, meetings and errands. They would otherwise have everything here!
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| View of their home from the front |
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| View from the back |
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| The "Man Cave" and pottery studio |
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| The veggie garden and the "Bunny House" (Berry House - a case of difficult-to-read handwriting that worked out well!) |
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| Olive trees |
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| Rose Garden and outdoor eating area with grape vines over the top |
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| Sauvignon Blanc Grapes and the windmill |
Nearest Town:
Blenheim (23km)
Neighboring Vineyards (and our favourites):
Specialty Shops
- Makana - Handmade chocolates and other natural temptations!
**NB: With permission, this place is also for sale for anyone who may be interested. They are very keen to retire! Check it out here or here.
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