Visit to The Landing

The Bay of Islands has attracted voyagers and visitors for centuries, enchanted by its beauty, 144 islands, warm waters and moderate climate. In the 1814, Rangihoua on the Purerua Peninsula became the first church mission in Aotearoa, established with protection from local iwi, some of whom had visited Reverend Samuel Marden in Sydney. Nearby was a fortified pa on the hill.

The image above, Lejuene, Jules., Habitants de la N.lle Zelande, avec une vue de leur place fortifiee ou Hippah - 10 avril 1824. from the artist on the French Corvette, Coquille, depicts Rangatira Tuai (Ngare Raumati) on a waka at Rangihoua, with the fortified pa on the hill in the distance.

Today, the Marsden Cross at Rangihoua commemorates those early missionary families. While I have sailed in the Bay of Islands, I have never visited Rangihoua until I was recently invited to the neighbouring property aptly named, The Landing.

The Landing is the vision of Peter Cooper (Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Kuri, and Te Aupōuri) of Cooper and Company, who we know from The Britomart, Auckland. With over 300 hectares including luxury residences, grape vines, regenerating native bush and wetlands, from every angle there is a magnificent vista of the Bay of Islands, looking south east across to Cape Brett.

A tour of the property includes a history class with Guide Gus who is also a skipper on one of boats that guests access when arriving from Paihia or Russell. Nicole Turner is the cellar door host and provides wine tastings by appointment to visitors.

In 2007 Syrah and Chardonnay vines were planted at The Landing. Since then, Sangiovese, Pinot Gris, Montepulciano, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot have been added.

The cellar door has a magnificent view out to sea. The tasting packages can include lunch to pair with a selection of current and older relased wines. The meals are freshly prepared nearby and the chefs are able to select fresh vegetables and herbs from their extensive gardens.