The Waipara Valley is in the South Island of New Zealand, 30 minutes drive north of Christchurch.

To the east Waipara Valley is separated from the ocean (Pegasus Bay) by a range of hills which protect it from the cooling winds of the Pacific.

To the west lie the Southern Alps (Main Divide), from whence the region's hot nor'west winds derive. Its sheltered position and proximity to the sea give it warm days, cool nights and a dry autumn, resulting in a very prolonged ripening period. This promotes intense flavour development and optimal ripeness, while retaining good natural acidity.