About Abbey Winery and Brewery
Abbey Winery and Brewery (also known as Abbey Cellars) is a family-owned boutique winery and craft brewery in Bridge Pa, near Hastings in Hawke’s Bay, NZ. Started by Jan and Warren Haworth, the estate covers about 13 hectares of red-metal soils in the Bridge Pa Triangle . Abbey focuses on ultra-premium wine made from hand-picked grapes, and also brews its own craft beers and ciders on site. Visitors praise the setting as “surrounded by lovely trees and umbrellas” with ample picnic seating . What really sets Abbey apart is the building itself: Warren Haworth designed and built it in a French-Gothic “abbey” style as a cellar door and winemaking centre . At age 69 he was still hammering nails to complete the tower-like structure . The result is a cathedral-like winery with grand arches and stonework, intentionally evoking the “beauty, mystery, tradition and romance” of old churches – the very feelings the owners associate with fine wine . In short, Abbey is notable both as a working single-estate winery and as an architectural landmark that embodies a wine-lover’s Abbey.
Events and Programming
Abbey Villa hosts live music and tastings especially on weekends and during summer months. Its event calendar typically features local singers and cover bands performing in the afternoon – for example, soul and groove duos, acoustic solo acts and nostalgic cover groups often play during Saturday or Sunday wine-tasting sessions. The winery also takes part in regional events like the annual Bridge Pa Wine Festival each January. Events are usually informal and included with normal cellar-door visits (there is generally no extra concert ticket fee, just the normal tasting/page charge). Visitors often bring friends to relax with a wine or beer flight under the live-music gazebo. Typical acts have included the Bongiovanni Brothers, Rick Toner, Dynamix, Nick Herbison and other Bay musicians (as listed on Abbey’s events page). Because Abbey is an intimate venue, popular shows can fill up, so big groups are encouraged to arrive early or book ahead (see below). Tickets or advance booking for live concerts aren’t usually required; Abbey advises casual drop-ins or bookings through its website or phone. Most events are free with purchase of drinks or a tasting flight, and any cover charge or festival fee (like Bridge Pa Wine Fest tickets) will be noted in advance on local listings.
Tickets and Booking
Abbey isn’t a theatre-style venue with a box office – it functions as a cellar door with wine flights, beers on tap and food. There is no separate entry fee or ticket required just to come in; you pay for wine tastings, beers or meals as you go. Large parties should definitely book in advance: as the owners note on their website, big groups and tours need a reservation or they risk being turned away due to limited space . During peak season (usually spring through autumn), advance booking for lunch or weekend tastings is recommended. Abbey’s hours are limited: in summer it’s open on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays, starting from mid-September) – closed on major holidays and over winter. Check their site or call with any specific queries – usually tastings and events are “first come, first served” on open days. Remember that last drink orders are usually 30 minutes before closing , so plan to arrive well before the 4:30pm–5pm cutoff.
Seating and Layout
The tasting room at Abbey is built like a large hall under a pointed roof, echoing its abbey theme. Inside you’ll find bar seating and tables for wine and beer flights. Outside, the expansive grounds feature shaded picnic areas and lawn space. Guests often lounge on beanbag chairs or at long wooden benches under big trees and umbrellas . This mix of indoor cellar-door space and outdoor “vineyard lounge” areas means you can choose to sit under cover or in the sun. Acoustics are relaxed rather than formal – think of outdoor festival sound, not a concert hall. In good weather, best seats are usually outside under the eaves or on the patio, where you can enjoy views of the vineyards and hills beyond . In winter or rain, the indoor area (with high ceilings and Gothic windows) fills up quickly. There are no VIP sections or assigned seats; seating is generally general-admission where you pick a spot. If you want a specific table (especially for a group), it’s best to book it. One tip: by lunchtime on weekends Abbey can get busy (it’s a popular stop on the wine tour circuit), so arriving early on Sunday or Saturday helps secure a good spot for the afternoon music.
Getting There and Parking
Abbey Winery and Brewery is located at 1769 Maraekakaho Road in Bridge Pa (just southwest of Hastings) . It’s about a 15–20 minute drive from central Hastings (roughly 15 km) and about half an hour from Napier. By car, travel Inland Road from Hastings through Bridge Pa and you’ll see the fairytale-like abbey building on the left. There is plenty of free on-site parking (gravel lot and grass parking areas) right beside the cellar door and restaurant. For public transit there is no direct train or regular bus to the vineyard – the nearest bus stops are in Hastings town. If you’re coming from Napier Airport or downtown Hastings without a car, the easiest way is by taxi or rideshare. Uber/freight taxis can be booked to drop off at the gateway. If using public transport, you might take a local bus to Hastings Railway Station or Hawke’s Bay Airport and then switch to a taxi for the final leg. Rideshare drop-off/pick-up is allowed near the gate; just be aware that after dark there are no shuttles, so pre-book your return ride or car hire if you plan to stay late. Walking from the nearest settlements is not practical (the nearest small village is Bridge Pa, a couple of km away), so plan to arrive by car or taxi. In any case, give yourself at least 15 minutes of driving or taxi time beyond what GPS says, since rural road signage can be easy to miss at first.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Abbey Cellars you’ll be greeted by a warm, cathedral-like tasting room. There’s a high vaulted ceiling with chandelier-style lighting and rustic wood/stone décor. The atmosphere is informal and friendly; country music or jazz may play softly depending on the day. As you enter, you can head to the tasting bar for a guided flight, or pick up a wine menu to order by the glass or bottle. The staff are family members or local hosts, known for being welcoming and informally English-speaking. For food, Abbey runs a small kitchen and serves a simple menu focused on sharable plates. Expect wood-fired pizzas (reviews mention both plain and gourmet toppings), cheese and meat platters, and simple salads or kids’ meals . (Note: some past guests have found the pizza uneven in quality, but others praise the cordial service and ambience .) Beverages include the full Abbey wine list (red, white and dessert wines), flight tastings of their beers and ciders, plus some non-alcoholic options like fruit smoothies. For tipping, you can tip servers as customary in NZ (though it’s typically optional). There’s no coat check, but the indoors area is roomy enough to keep jackets on hooks or seats. Restrooms are available inside (as in most cellar doors). For connectivity, Abbey provides free Wi-Fi for guests. There is usually no strict photography ban – many visitors snap pictures of the dramatic interior and vine views. Just be courteous if live music is playing (flash photography might distract performers). Overall, expect a relaxed country-vineyard tasting experience with friendly service, local wines & beer, and a few shared table snacks to complement your drinks.
Nearby Amenities
The bridge Pa wine region is home to several other wineries, so Abbey is often visited as part of a wine tour. Nearby cellar doors include Church Road Winery (with its Ram Tam Indian restaurant), Elephant Hill (with scenic views and Italian cuisine), and Clearview Estate (known for Pinot and a ciders). In Hastings town (15 km away) you’ll find a full selection of restaurants, cafes and pubs for pre- or post-visit dining – options range from casual cafes on Karamu Road to more formal bistros in the city centre. Napier (30 km) offers further dining and arts/décor attractions if you drive a little further. If staying overnight, the closest accommodations are hotels in central Hastings (eg. the Copthorne or Millennium hotels) or Napier city (Art Deco inns). Bridge Pa itself has only a small corner dairy shop – plan to eat at either Abbey or in town. On a show day, arriving early for a light breakfast or ending the day with dinner in Hastings is recommended, since Abbey itself serves only simple lunch fare. After closing time (around 5pm), note that there are no late-night buses back; book a taxi or rideshare in advance if you plan to stay for live music into the afternoon. If travelling by rental car, allow extra time to return it in Hastings or Napier; Abbey does not have evening services or shuttles.
What Makes This Venue Special
Abbey Winery & Brewery stands out for its unique blend of winemaking heritage and theatrical architecture. The Haworth family literally built the winery themselves – Warren Haworth used his carpentry skills to create this faux-French abbey as their cellar door and winery . The design (complete with arched windows, spires and gingerbread trim) is unlike any other cellar door in New Zealand. Locals view it as a landmark – as one wine writer noted, “architecturally, you won’t find anything quite like it in Hawke’s Bay.” Inside, the spacious hall and vine views complete the ambience. The estate itself is also famed: Bridge Pa Triangle is one of NZ’s oldest fine-wine regions, and Abbey sources every grape from its own vineyard. Reviews often mention the “ultra premium” quality and distinctive red wines full of blackberry and spice, reflective of the local soils . Culturally, Abbey has become a village gathering spot – families return for weekend music nights, riders drop in on bike tours, and tourists remark on its idiosyncratic charm. It’s also somewhat of a honeymooners’ spot, owing to the romantic abbey aesthetic. Abbey’s participation in regional events (like the Bridge Pa Wine Festival) and its consistent Traveler’s Choice awards underline its popular appeal. In summary, both wine aficionados and architecture buffs love Abbey: it’s a working boutique winery, brewery and restaurant, wrapped in an unforgettable “church-like” experience. Its local lore – from gossip about the family building it themselves to the Abbey-inspired name meaning (see FAQ) – adds to the fun of visiting.
Visitor Tips and Information
Abbey is largely family-friendly. Children are welcome (the venue is spacious and kid-tolerant) and even pets are allowed on the grounds . There’s no formal dress code – most visitors dress casually (think neat jeans or shorts and a breeze-blocking layer for outdoor seating). Because it’s partly outdoors, bring sunscreen, a hat or jacket depending on the weather, and comfortable shoes (gravel paths). On a busy weekend, don’t expect to squeeze in at the last minute without some wait – arriving just before opening time can beat the queues. Abbey follows NZ liquor laws: IDs may be checked for anyone who looks under 25, alcohol is only served on-site, and once outdoors you must use designated smoking areas. In fact, staff have noted that outdoor smoking is allowed according to NZ regulations (visitors mentioned being told it’s OK at least 2 metres from dining tables) . Use this information responsibly: even if smoking is tolerated outside, many guests avoid it near eating areas. No outside food or drink is permitted, so support the cellar door by ordering from its menu. If you plan a winery tour, note that Abbey is closed in the winter (roughly June–August) and on some holidays – verify its current opening schedule online or by phone. Payment is usually accepted by credit card (Visa/Mastercard) and EFTPOS; cash is also fine. Free Wi-Fi is offered for guests who need connectivity, and public restrooms are on site. Most importantly, enjoy the experience: ask questions about the wines, take in the vine views, and don’t forget to explore the “Abbey” interior and courtyard. Insider tip: try their signature dessert riesling or beer flight – these often get high marks. Finally, on departure remember Abbey closes mid-afternoon, so plan your next destination or ride well in advance.
Is there an entry fee or ticket price to visit Abbey Winery & Brewery?
No, Abbey functions like most cellar doors: there is no separate admission fee just to visit. You pay for what you taste or eat. For example, you buy wine flight or a glass of beer when you order at the bar. Larger festivals or special concerts (such as the Bridge Pa Wine Festival) may sell tickets for those events, but casual visits for tasting at Abbey itself do not require an entry ticket.
How do I purchase tickets or reserve my spot for an event at Abbey?
Most live music and tasting events at Abbey do not require formal tickets – visitors simply show up and buy their drinks/food. For bigger gatherings or private events, the venue may ask you to RSVP or buy passes ahead of time via their website or by calling the cellar door. If Abbey is participating in a multi-winery festival (like the Bridge Pa Wine Festival), those promoters usually sell tickets online. Otherwise, if you see an Abbey event listed, the safest bet is to contact Abbey Cellars directly (by email or phone) to confirm any booking requirements or special charges for that date.
Do I need to book ahead for wine tastings or large groups?
Abbey Cellars welcomes walk-in tastings on open days, but reservations are strongly recommended for large groups or weekends. According to Abbey’s website, “large groups and tours by appointment please. Groups may be turned away due to overcrowding if no booking is made” . In practice, if you have more than 6–8 people, it’s wise to call ahead. During summer and holiday weekends, even smaller groups may hit capacity. Reservations can ensure you get a table for your tasting or lunch.
What are the opening hours of Abbey Winery and Brewery?
Abbey Cellars operates on a seasonal weekend schedule. In the warmer months, it’s typically open on Saturdays and Sundays (roughly 10am–5pm for tasting, with “last drinks” served 30 minutes before closing) . Note that Sunday opening may start later in spring (as indicated on their site, “Sundays from late September”). Abbey is closed( completely shut) during winter (June–August) and on major holidays. Always double-check the current hours on Abbey’s own website or social media before planning your visit, as hours can vary slightly from year to year.
Where is Abbey Winery located, and how can I get there without a car?
Abbey Cellars is located at 1769 Maraekakaho Road, Bridge Pa, Hastings (Hawke’s Bay) . It’s in a rural area with vineyards, about 15 km southwest of central Hastings (approximately 20 minutes drive) and about 30 km from Napier. Public transport options are very limited – there’s no direct train or dedicated bus to the winery. The closest main bus and train services run through Hastings town or the Napier–Hastings route. Without a car, your best bet is to take a taxi or rideshare (book a pickup in Hastings or Napier). Some wine tour buses may include Abbey as a stop (check local tour operators). If you do drive, there is ample free parking at the cellar door; if you hike or bike in, use caution on the rural road shoulders, as there are no sidewalks.
Is there parking available at Abbey Winery, and is it free?
Yes, Abbey has on-site parking that visitors can use at no extra cost. The parking area is adjacent to the cellar door and restaurant. It mainly consists of a gravel lot and some grass parking spaces. When we say “ample parking,” we mean that even on busy lunch days or live-music Sundays, you generally won’t have to hunt for a spot – the family-owned nature of the venue means they set aside enough space for guests. Parking is flat and accessible from the main road, so large vehicles (even small tour buses) can pull in easily.
Are there indoor and outdoor seating options at Abbey?
Yes. Abbey’s tasting room doubles as an indoor lounge (the “interior of the abbey”), and outside it has a large garden/undercroft area. Inside, tables and chairs flank the long bar. Outdoors, there are picnic tables and beanbags under big trees – in fact one reviewer calls it “a charming spot with ample seating surrounded by lovely trees and umbrellas” . In good weather, many people prefer the patio or lawn where a stage may be set up for music. If it’s raining or cool, you can stay inside. In summary: plenty of indoor tables plus open-air patio and grounds seating. No seat reservations; first-come, first-seated.
Can I bring my children or pets to Abbey Winery?
Yes, Abbey is very family-friendly. Well-behaved children of all ages are welcome (with an adult, of course). The outdoor lawn is spacious enough for kids to roam a bit under supervision, and one review explicitly notes it’s a “child and pet friendly” venue . Friendly dogs on leashes are usually allowed on the decked outdoor area (but not inside the bar/restaurant). As with any winery, keep an eye on kids near tables or stairs, and control pets around food and drinks. Abbey staff are used to families visiting and there’s even a playground slide on the lawn seasonally. Just plan to order some pizza or snacks from the menu for the little ones instead of asking to bring outside food.
Is smoking allowed anywhere at Abbey Winery?
New Zealand law bans smoking inside public eateries, but allows it outside. At Abbey, smoking is not permitted indoors, but you are allowed to smoke outside at a safe distance. One guest review notes that staff even told them smoking “is okay at their winery” if you move one table away . In practice, smokers should stay at least a couple of metres from dining tables and away from entrances (this is in line with NZ rules). Considerately, avoid smoking if it will drift onto non-smokers enjoying a picnic table. If you’re sensitive, stick to the breezy outdoor lawn; otherwise you can still enjoy a cigar or cigarette in the open-air gardens without penalty, as long as you follow NZ regulations.
What kind of food and drink does Abbey serve?
Abbey offers a simple but tasty menu to complement its drinks. You can order small plates and mains from their on-site cafe. Pizzas are a specialty (wood-fired style with both basic and gourmet toppings). There are also cheese and antipasto platters, charcuterie boards, salads, and a children’s meal (like fish and chips) as options . For drinks, they have the full Abbey wine list by the glass or bottle (red, white, rosé, and dessert wines), plus beer flights from the Abbey brand craft beers and ciders. On a summer day one reviewer enjoyed a “delicious beer flight” alongside pizza . They also serve non-alcoholic juices or smoothies. Overall, think casual winery fare – good wine, beer, pizza, cheese – nothing too fancy but well paired with the wines and assessed positively by most guests.
Is the Abbey Winery building historic? Why is it shaped like a Gothic abbey?
No, Abbey is not an old church – it’s a modern winery built by the owners. Warren Haworth designed and constructed the building himself in the 2000s to look like a French-Gothic abbey, complete with steeples and stone-like walls . The “abbey” theme is a stylistic homage: the Haworths love the romance of cathedral architecture, and they wanted their winery to evoke those same feelings (beauty, mystery and tradition) while you sip wine . So, while the building looks like a church, it was newly built as part of the vineyard. It houses the cellar door, restaurant and winemaking facilities. That is why visitors often comment on the “spectacular sight” and unique style – it’s a one-of-a-kind design created to enhance the wine-tasting experience .
What does “Single Estate” mean on Abbey’s wines?
“Single Estate” means that Abbey Cellars grows all its own grapes on its own vineyard (the 13-hectare Bridge Pa property) and makes only that fruit into wine. In other words, the wine comes exclusively from this one site, rather than sourcing grapes from multiple vineyards. Certified single-estate wines often have a consistent style that reflects their specific terroir. Abbey prides itself on small-batch, hand-harvested wines aged in oak – so each bottle is 100% vineyard-grown. The term simply signals they control every step of production on one family-owned estate.
Does Abbey accept credit cards or have other amenities (Wi-Fi, restrooms)?
Yes, Abbey accepts major credit and debit cards at the cellar door and restaurant. They do not have a separate gift-shop cashier, just one payment desk. Other amenities include free guest Wi-Fi (ask staff for the network name) and clean indoor restroom facilities for visitors. There is no coat check, but space to hang jackets near the entrance. Cellphone charging stations are not advertised, but power outlets can usually be found at the bar area. The venue is generally walk-in friendly; just queue at the bar or hostess desk if it’s busy. Lastly, if you need to make phone calls or work while tasting, the Wi-Fi signal is reported as reliable enough for light browsing and email.
Are children allowed at Abbey?
Yes – Abbey welcomes families. Children of all ages may enter with an adult and usually enjoy the open grounds. The staff often have juice or soft drink options for kids. There’s no designated playground, but youngsters can munch on pizza or snacks while parents taste. Because Abbey is calm, non-smoking (indoors) and has picnic areas, it’s largely kid-tolerant. Just remember that alcohol is only served 18+ years, and minors must be supervised at all times.
