About
The idea was born from a casual conversation between local winemakers, Alan Limmer (then Stonecroft Winery), John Buck of Te Mata Estate Winery and Kate Radburnd (then CJ Pask).
They saw an opportunity for the regional wine industry to give back to our local community while also promoting the very best of Hawke’s Bay wine to wine-lovers across the country and beyond.
What started as a small fundraising event hosted in the stands of the Hawke’s Bay racecourse has grown into one of New Zealand’s most anticipated wine celebrations, powered by the collective strength and generosity of the Hawke’s Bay wine community.
Today, more than 50 winemakers – from boutique producers to renowned estates – donate their finest wines, time, and creativity each year. Their shared commitment is at the heart of the event, making the auction a standout example of collective effort making a real and lasting impact.
The event is also proudly supported by local businesses and both Hastings District and Napier City councils. Their sponsorship allows the auction to operate on a breakeven budget, ensuring we can honour a promise that means everything:
every dollar raised goes directly to Cranford Hospice.
With over $5 million donated since the auction began, it is the largest private annual fundraiser for the hospice.
Each spring, the region gathers to celebrate excellence in winemaking and to contribute to an essential community service. It’s an event filled with energy, generosity, and good humour – proof that doing good can be great fun.
How the Auction Works
The Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction features 40 live auction lots alongside a silent auction. Guests can bid individually or form a syndicate – an excellent way for wine lovers to secure large-volume offerings.
Auction lots vary in scale and style, including:
- Full barrique (288 bottles), Half Barrique (144 bottles) and Quarter barrique (72 bottles) lots
- Custom blends created exclusively for the auction
- Large-format bottles
- Rare and cellar-aged releases, including vertical collections
There is also one piece of artwork donated by an acclaimed Hawke’s Bay artist.
The day begins with a lively 90-minute tasting, where guests meet the winemakers, sample the wines on offer, and decide which lots they’ll be bidding on.
It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, community spirit, and the remarkable generosity that defines Hawke’s Bay. Wine lovers leave inspired – and Cranford Hospice receives vital support to continue its extraordinary work.
Since 1991, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction has:
- Auctioned over 1,000 lots
- Received more than 58,000 bottles donated by local winemakers
- Showcased 33 original pieces of art from local artists
- Become the largest annual private fundraiser for Cranford Hospice
