Photos supplied by www.17photos.co.nz

Clevedon is synonymous with ‘Rural Style’.  Farming is still a way of life but increasingly Clevedon offers the rural lifestyle, close to the sophistication and amenities of Auckland city. The land is a lush paradise of rolling countryside. The Hunua Ranges to the south provide a stunning backdrop, while to the east lies Kawakawa Bay and Orere Point. Clevedon Village itself offers kiwi hospitality, country charm and a burgeoning array of little shops, galleries and cafés.

The Wairoa River meanders gently through Clevedon and once played an important role in its development. In the late 1800s, European settlers began clearing the thick native bush on the river bank and supplies and passengers were ferried to and from Auckland and out to the Hauraki Gulf. The Clevedon Steam Navigation Company was formed allowing locally produced butter and cheese to be ferried to Auckland and eventually further afield. This was probably Clevedon’s earliest venture into international export.

   

It continues today - many of the vineyards are now exploring export markets and Clevedon Coast Oysters are acclaimed across the world in the very best restaurants! First stop in Clevedon Village is the Clevedon Gallery and Information Centre, where your questions will be answered by helpful and friendly staff. The shop is packed with gifts and art created by local artists as well as items sourced from all over the world. The building itself is a hundred years old and has a rustic ambience about it. If you are short of time the wine room offers an extensive range of wines, including many that are locally produced. But it would be a pity to miss the experience of visiting the vineyards and wineries.

Clevedon is rapidly developing a reputation for its exceptional wine and food. Its climate and fertile soil are the perfect components to grow grapes capable of producing full-flavoured red wines such as merlot. Award-winning Twilight Vineyards, just outside the village, is open throughout the summer season, Thursday to Sunday during Spring and Autumn, and every weekend throughout the year. It’s well worth a visit and Bruce and Joy always give you a very warm welcome. You can drop into Vin Alto any day for wine and venison sales – and to sample their very own Limoncello! For the gourmet experience pre-book for the Vin Alto wine-tasting luncheon on Saturdays or Sundays.

  

The captivating Ness Valley, situated less than 10 minutes from Clevedon, is home to four vineyards, all producing their own exclusive range of quality wines. The first of the Ness Valley vineyards is Arahura, the oldest vineyard in Clevedon, followed by Rannach, where Chris and Tony Morgan produce Merlot and Malbec and are more than happy to share the art of the wine making process with you.

A little further on is Inverness Estate which produces its own award-winning wines. Surrounded by beautiful gardens it is also home to the Rosepark Andalusian horse stud. And last but not least is Villa Noortheim, set on four acres of rose covered gardens with a colonial villa, coach house and winery. Most of the vineyards can be viewed at weekends or by appointment. Ensure you allow enough time to relax and soak up the ambience whilst sipping a glass of your favourite wine.

  

Back in Clevedon Village there are numerous shops to tempt you such as the iconic Clevedon Woolshed with its exceptional quality knitwear, Woodzone which specializes in furniture and gifts made from native woods, the mouthwatering handmade chocolates at the Clevedon Chocolate Shop, 17Photos with its Clevedon Heritage Collection and the adjoining Clevedon Flowers. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, then Beesties provides so much more than fish and chips. The Clevedon Café is open 7 days for snacks until 3pm and then Wednesday to Sunday for evening meals.

  

The Wairoa Bar and Restaurant on the Clevedon-Kawakawa Bay Road is the regional winner of the 2006 Auckland Monteiths Wild Food Challenge or you can catch a quick latté at the Italian Kitchen Table. Out on the Papakura-Clevedon Road, the Italian Country Market is a great place to buy your picnic, or in the other direction, heading towards Maraetai, the Log Cabin, open Friday to Sunday, is always popular, especially for brunch. Maybe then a little exercise at the Clevedon Scenic Reserve? There is a short walk of 20 minutes and a more challenging walk to the summit, which will take around 45 minutes - but which will reward you with spectacular views of the Clevedon Valley.

  

Or you might like to take a trip to Atarangi Gardens - head out towards Ardmore on the Papakura-Clevedon Road. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay around the village, visit McNicol Homestead (open in the afternoon at weekends), where you can view Clevedon’s history in the household and farming antiques used by the early settlers.

  

Another delightful example of Clevedon’s history is All Soul’s Church on North Road. This tiny picturesque Kauri church was built in 1861 and is still very much part of the community. But then if it’s Clevedon, you’re never far away from food! On a Sunday morning at the Clevedon Showgrounds, the Clevedon Farmers Market showcases the region’s freshest produce. Purchase locally grown fruit and vegetables and much more at this bustling weekly affair. Other regular events include the craft fairs and markets at the Clevedon Hall - a great place to find gifts with a twist and handmade items with that personal touch.

  

Clevedon is the home of the Auckland Polo Club, one of the first to be formed in New Zealand and the largest. Regular events are held at the Clevedon Polo grounds on Clevedon-Kawakawa Bay Road throughout the summer season. On the outskirts of Clevedon Village and along the road to Kawakawa Bay is Clevedon Animal Farm - a great place for families. Saturday shows are held throughout the year but it is important to book in advance.

  

Clevedon has so much to offer. Beautiful countryside, village life, boutique shops, great location and a plentiful supply of wine! It’s just a short trip from Auckland city - but best appreciated by immersing yourself in the area and staying a few days. There are numerous places offering accommodation – all with a good dose of kiwi hospitality and a hearty breakfast to set you up for the day! A very warm welcome awaits you in this unique corner of Auckland.