About The Bone Line
The Bone Line is a small family-owned winery and cellar-door venue in the Waipara Valley of North Canterbury, NZ (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.colliers.co.nz ). Established on a former sheep farm in 1989 by the Tutton‐Sienko‐Hill family, the estate spans about 193 hectares (60 acres) with 18 ha under vine (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.colliers.co.nz ). This means it’s a modest, intimate space – far more relaxed than a big-city bar or concert hall – with room for a few dozen seated tasters inside and outdoor tables on its lawn and deck. The site is famous for its geological theme: it overlooks an actual “bone line” of fossilized dinosaur-era remains in the Waipara River, and the name refers to the Cretaceous–Tertiary (K–T) asteroid impact layer (www.regionalwines.co.nz ). Each wine label even features a local fossil from about 65 million years ago, underscoring the science-and-nature story behind the venue (www.regionalwines.co.nz ) (theboneline.co.nz ). Over time the property built a strong reputation – it was originally known under the Waipara West label before rebranding to Boneline in 2014 (www.regionalwines.co.nz ) – and today it produces classic North Canterbury wines (Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, etc.) with a terroir-driven style (www.colliers.co.nz ) (theboneline.co.nz ). In short, The Bone Line combines rustic charm, panoramic vineyard scenery and a unique science theme that has helped put Waipara on the map (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.regionalwines.co.nz ). It isn’t a massive event amphitheatre – rather a heritage winery with a cosy cellar door and open-air tasting area at the foothills of the Teviotdale hills (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The atmosphere is intentionally unpretentious and warmly Kiwi, with plenty of local character. (For example, owners Vic Tutton and Lindsay Hill – along with family members Paul Tutton and Olga Sienko – still run the vineyard and cellar, and you can meet them in person here (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).)
Events and Programming
The Bone Line isn’t a concert hall but it does host occasional wine-themed events alongside regular tastings. Daily life here is cellar-door wine tasting and casual daytime visits – seated wine flights or cheese-and-wine pairings on the deck happen frequently (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). On top of that, the winery runs a few special programs each year. At harvest time ( mid-April or so) they stage an annual “Experience Vintage” day where guests can hand-pick grapes, tour the vines, enjoy lunch and a barrel-tasting tour with the winemakers (theboneline.co.nz ) (theboneline.co.nz ). These harvest festivals typically cost around NZ$120 per person (with big discounts for wine-club members) (theboneline.co.nz ) and sell out by advance registration. There are also release or “Reds” dinners when new vintages are bottled, often held in collaboration with local chefs – for example, the 2021 Cabernet release dinner featured several courses paired with their wines (theboneline.co.nz ) (theboneline.co.nz ). In 2021 The Bone Line even hosted a small music festival (“Rolling Meadows”) on New Year’s Eve, showcasing local DJs and bands on the lawn (a one-off event tied to the winery’s theme) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (theboneline.co.nz ). Beyond these special occasions, however, the schedule is mostly tastings and food pairings. They take part in the Waipara wine trail events and open days (e.g. the Discover Waipara/Grove community wine day), and the property is also available for private hire – weddings, corporate retreats and private lunch Groups can arrange an event if they contact the winery (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, visitors will find a steady flow of casual daytime tasting sessions (bookable ahead) and an occasional special wine lunch or harvest tour, but not a weekly lineup of concerts or theatre shows. Check The Bone Line’s website and social media for announcements of any winemaker dinners or seasonal events (for example, their April “Experience Vintage” days) well in advance.
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office or walk-in ticketing as such – The Bone Line operates more like a tasting room than a performance venue. To visit you simply book a wine-tasting slot online or by phone ahead of time. They require a NZ$30 deposit per person to reserve a tasting or lunch, which is applied to your wine/food tab on arrival (theboneline.co.nz ). (This deposit is non-refundable if you cancel less than 48 hours before your booking (theboneline.co.nz ).) Standard seated wine tastings generally run NZ$30 per person, which covers a flight of 4–6 wines (and is waived if you end up buying at least three bottles) (theboneline.co.nz ). When you call or book on their site, you’ll pick a date and time (any weekday or weekend slot from 11am–4pm, Thursday through Monday – they are closed Tue/Wed (theboneline.co.nz )). It’s wise to reserve your time in advance, especially on weekends or during holidays when walk-ins may not be possible. The Bone Line’s website clearly notes the opening hours (11am–4pm on open days) and has an online booking form, or you can phone the cellar door (see Contacts). For any larger groups (8 or more people) or for special events, it’s courteous to email or call ahead - they’ll often arrange everyone at one long table. There are no “rush” door sales or standby tickets – everything is slot-based. Box-office style tickets aren't used; instead, payment is done at the end by EFTPOS or cash for your tasting or lunch (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re a member of their wine club (the “Plesiosaurs” or “Megalodons” tiers), note you get a 15% discount on tastings and purchases and sometimes members-only offers (like early access to the harvest day or pre-release wines) (theboneline.co.nz ) (theboneline.co.nz ). In a nutshell: book ahead online or by calling +64 3-314 8699, pay the $30/person deposit when reserving, and enjoy your tasting slot when you arrive.
Seating and Layout
The Bone Line’s tasting area is a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces with a rustic-modern feel. Inside the stone-and-timber cellar door there’s a bar counter and communal tables seating perhaps 30–40 people total, plus a few window tables for smaller parties. The décor is intentionally simple – exposed wood beams, natural stone, and vineyard views framed by high beams. You’ll notice fossil-themed artwork on the walls and sightseeing windows into the barrel rooms, highlighting the winery’s “ancient earth” motif (www.ticketfairy.com ). Table service is available indoors; staff will bring wine flights and cheese boards or sharing plates (the new menu of antipasti, seasonal salads and snacks) to your table (www.ticketfairy.com ). But the real highlight is outside: a wooden deck and lawn area overlooking the vines. On sunny days, many guests spill out to the patio where there are wooden benches and garden chairs under large umbrellas. Late afternoon sun bathes the vineyard, so spots on the terrace or in the vine rows are perfect for a sunset view. (Tip: at outdoor events or dinners they usually let you bring your own low chairs or cushions if you want extra comfort on the grass.) All seating is general admission – no reserved or VIP boxes. Small groups (8+) typically get a single long table on the deck. The open-air setting makes it easy to mingle with others or wander a bit between tasting flights. The acoustics are quiet and natural – you’ll hear birds chirping and the breeze rather than thumping speakers. In fact, except during special hired events there is no live band or loud PA; it’s meant to be a relaxed wine school atmosphere. In practice, any seat has a good view: the only less-desirable spots are directly behind the building where the line of sight is blocked. Otherwise, whether you sit indoors or out on the terrace, you’ll enjoy broad panoramas of vineyards, limestone hills and even distant crest of Mount Hutt on a clear day.
Getting There and Parking
The Bone Line is about 60km north of Christchurch, roughly a 60–75 minute drive via State Highway 1 through Amberley and then turning off onto local Waipara roads (www.colliers.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). It sits at 376 Ram Paddock Road (RD 2) in the rural Broomfield area of Waipara Valley – look for winery signage near Waipara township or Amberley, or just punch the address into your GPS. The roads are mostly paved, but the final turn-off is on a quiet country lane. (In very wet weather these lanes can be muddy, so a car with a bit of clearance is helpful (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Because it’s in the countryside, the easiest way to reach The Boneline is by car. There is ample free parking on site: a gravel lot and lawn area big enough for cars and even tour vans (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can literally drive up to the cellar and unload at the entrance. Street parking is not needed or available. Public transit doesn’t come here – there are no trains or buses to the winery. Some visitors with no car arrange a taxi or shuttle from Amberley (the nearest town, about 15 km south), but services in Waipara are limited. Rideshare apps like Uber are rare this far out, especially after dark (www.ticketfairy.com ), and cell reception can be spotty. If you are on an organized wine tour, most local tour companies will provide pickup and drop-off. Otherwise, the recommendation is to drive yourself or book a private driver. There is a clear drop-off point at the gate if someone is being dropped off. All in all, plan extra travel time for rural roads and pack warm layers if you’re coming in winter – the Waipara Gorge can be chilly at night.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll walk into The Bone Line’s charming cellar door. The friendly staff will greet you behind a small tasting counter and check in your reservation/deposit (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). No special ID or dress code is enforced – smart casual attire is normal here (www.ticketfairy.com ). The vibe is laid-back yet refined. You’ll immediately notice nods to the theme: fossil artwork and a peek into the barrel room through glass panels, a reminder of the 65-million-year story beneath your feet (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you ordered food or wine, the server will bring it to your table. You can choose wines by the glass or taste full flights from their lineup of current releases (www.ticketfairy.com ). For payment, the venue takes EFTPOS or cash at the end (New Zealand cards or local payment apps work fine) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Restrooms are modern and just inside the door – they’re clean and unscented, and the venue maintains accessibility for all users (www.ticketfairy.com ). Coat racks and hooks are provided near the seating if you need them. Connectivity is limited – the cellphone signal can be weak in the valley, and while there may be cellar-door Wi-Fi, don’t count on a fast connection (www.ticketfairy.com ). Inside the tasting room you might catch conversation or light background music, but it’s generally a quiet, social atmosphere. There’s no formal security line or bag check – just sign in, put your keys down, and get comfortable. Right by the registers you’ll find a small selection of goodies: a few bottles to taste or buy, branded glassware, and the like. For everything else (wine purchases, full menus, more background), the team is right there to help. Overall the interior is welcoming and unhurried, designed to showcase the view and the wines, not to dazzle with flashy tech.
Nearby Amenities
Although The Bone Line itself has a café-style menu and outdoor seating, you might want to know what else is around. Fortunately Waipara Valley has grown into a wine-tourism hotspot, with several excellent eateries nearby. For a proper sit-down meal, the famous Pegasus Bay winery restaurant is just 5 km west on the highway – it’s award-winning and serves hearty country fare (www.ticketfairy.com ). Another option is Waipara Springs Winery about 7 km north, which has a casual café and coffee shop (great for light bites) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Greystone and Domain Road wineries are also in the area (each has its own eatery or bakery on site), and both are only about 5–10 minutes away by car (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need essentials, the village of Waipara (under 10 min away) has a small grocery/deli and a petrol station. The nearest town is Amberley (15 km south); it’s where you’ll find supermarkets, a couple of pubs, motels and petrol stations (the Waipara village store closes early). There is no lodging at the winery itself. However, the scenic valley offers a few places to stay: for example, the Waipara Springs Lodge B&B or the Waipara Sleepers cabins (24-Garden-style cottages) are popular bed-and-breakfast options (www.ticketfairy.com ). Amberley has motels and a holiday park if you want more facilities. Christchurch city (about an hour away) is the major hub for big hotels and transport links if needed. As for nightlife transport: after dark there’s virtually no Uber service out here. Taxis can be called from Amberley (book well ahead for evening pickups) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The safest plan for late nights is to arrange a ride from a local tour operator or have a designated driver, since public transport only goes as far as these small towns.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Bone Line stands out precisely because it’s not trying to be a slick tourist factory. Instead, it weaves together unique stories of place, history and family. Architecturally it’s simple – essentially a barn-like cellar with a wooden deck – but thematically it’s very rich (www.ticketfairy.com ). Every aspect ties back to geology and winemaking: the fossil imagery, the wine names (like their “Sharkstone” Chardonnay and “Hellblock” Riesling) and the ambient soundtrack of nature (www.ticketfairy.com ). Visitors love the genuine Kiwi-country feel – you might find yourself meeting the owners over a butcher-board platter, talking about dinosaurs as much as pinot noir! Indeed, reviewers call it a “gorgeous spot” with “friendly staff” and top-notch Chardonnay and Riesling (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The owners have poured decades into this place, so it’s also a story of family enterprise. The Tutton–Sienko–Hill family helped pioneer Waipara as a wine region, and sharing that heritage is part of their charm (theboneline.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Culturally, The Bone Line adds a fun scientific twist to the Canterbury wine scene; it’s a place where science (astrophysics, really) meets agriculture. Economically, it’s become a draw for the valley: with tens of thousands of wine tourists visiting Waipara each year, venues like this channel tourism dollars into the region (www.ticketfairy.com ). Environmentally, the estate’s organic-certified vines and cover crops earn respect from local conservation-minded visitors (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Boneline also dives into the community – hosting free educational wine seminars, open days on the valley road and even local music events. In fact, the one-off Rolling Meadows New Year’s music event was held here, highlighting the venue’s creative side (www.ticketfairy.com ) (theboneline.co.nz ). All of this – the wines themselves, the panoramic setting, and the astute narrative – makes The Bone Line special. Guests consistently cite its “unpolished charm”: it feels like visiting a knowledgeable friend’s vineyard rather than a theme park, and that authenticity is its signature.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Bone Line is generally very welcoming, but a few practical tips will make your visit smoother. First, book in advance. The cellar door can get busy, so reserve your tasting time and pay the NZ$30/person deposit (which goes on your final bill) ahead of your visit (theboneline.co.nz ). Plan to arrive around 5–10 minutes early on a quiet day; for special events or dinners, arriving a bit early ensures everything runs on time. Dress for a sunny, windy valley – bring sun protection and a light jacket. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, especially if you plan to stroll the gravel paths among the vines (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s a wine venue, so keep minors quiet; children are allowed if fully supervised, but of course no under-18s will be served alcohol (www.ticketfairy.com ). (On the plus side, leashed dogs are welcome outside, if your winery tour has a furry friend along (www.ticketfairy.com ).) The tasting room and restrooms are wheelchair-friendly (the entrance has no steps and there is an accessible toilet) (www.ticketfairy.com ). No formal dress code is required – think tidy-casual – but if you’re attending an upscale dinner event they suggest smart casual attire (www.ticketfairy.com ). You won’t need ID just to sit and sip, though staff might check if ordering liquor. Bring cash if you like (though EFTPOS cards are fine (www.ticketfairy.com )), but note that tipping is not customary in New Zealand (www.ticketfairy.com ). The winery now has a simple local food line-up by caterer Kate McMillan; if you have dietary needs, mention them when you order and they’ll do their best to accommodate (vegetarian or gluten-free options are usually possible) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Photography is totally fine – snap the vineyard, winery and your friends (there’s no no-photo policy) (www.ticketfairy.com ) – but be mindful of privacy if other groups are around. There are no bag checks, so you can keep belongings with you or leave them in the car comfortably. One final tip: cell phone coverage and Wi-Fi can be weak here (www.ticketfairy.com ), so consider unplugging and enjoying the fresh air. Most importantly, come thirsty and curious. The Bone Line is all about relaxed wine tasting and discovering a bit of prehistory, so enjoy the view, the wine, and the very Plesiosaur-like logo!
How do I book a visit to The Bone Line?
You don’t buy tickets per se – instead you reserve a tasting slot . Go to The Bone Line’s website or call the cellar door at +64 3-314 8699 to pick a date and time. You’ll pay a NZ$30 deposit per person when booking, which is applied to your purchase on arrival (theboneline.co.nz ). Walk-ins are rare after midday or on busy weekends, so it’s best to book in advance (at least a few days or even weeks ahead) if you can. Once confirmed, just show up at the cellar door on your scheduled day and time.
What are The Bone Line’s opening days and hours?
The Bone Line cellar door is open Thursday through Monday , 11am–4pm. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (theboneline.co.nz ). The last tastings or lunch bookings are around 3pm (so plan to arrive by 2pm if you want a full experience). Note that hours can change for special events, so it’s always wise to check the current schedule on their website or social media before heading out.
How much does the wine tasting cost and what’s included?
A standard seated tasting flight at The Bone Line costs about NZ$30 per person (theboneline.co.nz ). This usually covers a flight of 4–6 wines from their current menu. (If you buy three or more bottles of wine, the tasting fee is waived (theboneline.co.nz ).) The $30 deposit you paid when booking is credited against this charge and any wine you buy. If you order any food from the cheese/antipasti menu, it is extra. The fee is non-refundable unless you cancel at least 48 hours in advance (theboneline.co.nz ). Wine club members also get 15% off all tastings and bottle purchases (theboneline.co.nz ).
Can I walk the vineyard or winery while visiting?
Yes – The Bone Line has a public vineyard walkway that you can explore. It’s a self-guided trail with more than 20 interpretive signs explaining the vines, soils and local geology (theboneline.co.nz ). Because the trail is outside, you won’t need to carry anything big with you once you’re signed in. Wear sturdy shoes (the path is gravellly), and you’re free to stroll among the vines at your leisure. If you plan to walk the trail after tasting, it’s a good idea to leave lapses or valuables in the car or on the decking, since you won’t need them outdoors (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there parking available at The Bone Line?
Absolutely. There is ample free parking on site – a flat gravel area and lawn right next to the cellar door (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can park directly at the entrance, on grass or gravel. If you’re with a tour group or bus, just let the staff know ahead of time and they’ll accommodate as much space as needed. Street parking isn’t an option (and not needed) because the winery handles all arrivals on its property.
How do I get to The Bone Line – is there public transport or rideshare?
The Bone Line is in a rural area, about an hour’s drive north of Christchurch (www.colliers.co.nz ). No bus or train goes there – the nearest town is Amberley (about 15 km south). If you don’t have a car, you could take a coach or shuttle to Amberley and then grab a taxi (pre-booked) from there. Uber or other rideshare isn’t reliable; coverage is spotty this far out (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many visitors simply drive themselves or join a guided wine tour. If using GPS from Christchurch, follow State Highway 1 to Waipara, then turn onto Waipara Gorge Road and Ram Paddock Road. Check weather and road conditions, as heavy rain can make gravel roads tricky (www.ticketfairy.com ). In good weather, a standard car is fine; 4WD helps only in muddy conditions.
What are the best seats or areas to enjoy the view?
Since The Bone Line is informal, all seating has a nice outlook. Outdoors, the upper deck and patio are great for full vineyard views and sunset light. There are wooden benches and chairs under umbrellas so you can sip in comfort. Indoors, window tables at the front offer framed views through large glass panels. The restaurant-style long tables on the deck also give everyone a view. In general, avoid any spot directly behind the building (you’d be looking at walls or outbuildings rather than vines). Otherwise, any seat lets you drink in the rural panorama. On windy or rainy days, the covered deck still provides open-air ambiance with some shelter.
Does The Bone Line have age restrictions or dress codes?
There is no formal dress code ; smart-casual attire is perfectly fine. Feel free to come as you are – many guests dress casually or in winery-tour clothes. However, if you are attending one of their winery dinners or harvest events, the invitation might note “smart casual.” As for age, The Bone Line welcomes all ages as long as intoxicants stay with guests 18 and over . Well-behaved children are welcome if supervised by a parent or guardian (www.ticketfairy.com ). You won’t be pressured about ID unless you order alcohol (then presenting ID is required by NZ law). Dogs are not allowed inside, but on-leash dogs are generally tolerated in the outdoor picnic area (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What food and drink services are available?
The Bone Line’s main focus is wine, but they do offer light food options to go with it. Their cellar-door menu is a simple sharing style: think cheese boards, antipasti plates and seasonal snacks sourced locally (www.ticketfairy.com ). All wines by the glass or bottle are available from the list of current releases. You can order a tasting flight or individual pours – just let your server know what wines you’re interested in. There is no full-scale restaurant on site, and picnicking or outside food/drink is discouraged by law (you must purchase alcohol at the cellar). If you want a larger meal before or after, the nearby Pegasus Bay or Waipara Springs venues (see above) have full menus. Don’t forget, the $30 tasting fee is redeemable against wine purchases, so many visitors end up buying a bottle or two to enjoy on site or take home (theboneline.co.nz ).
Is The Bone Line wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The tasting room is built step-free so most of the indoor area is wheelchair-friendly (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is also an ADA-compliant restroom inside the cellar door (www.ticketfairy.com ). The outdoor deck and lawn are flat and easily navigable, though the surface is gravel/lawn outside (so a hilly terrain can be slightly uneven). If you have mobility concerns, you can call ahead – the staff are used to accommodating wheelchairs and can help guide you to the easiest path and seating. In general, the venue is consciously accessible.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Just your confirmation and enthusiasm! Bring the booking confirmation or your name so they can find your reservation. A valid photo ID is a good idea if you plan to buy alcoholic drinks (though ID won’t hurt if you’re only doing a paid tasting) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wear sun protection or a light jacket depending on the greeting weather – the Waipara sky can change quickly (www.ticketfairy.com ). Closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended (the gravel paths can be a tripping hazard) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You might also bring a water bottle (filling stations or chilled water are usually available) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Beyond that, there’s nothing special to pack: picnic rugs, large bags or outside wine aren’t needed or permitted. Just come ready to taste wine and enjoy the scenery!
Why is it called “The Bone Line”?
The name comes from a real geological feature near the winery. In the Waipara Riverbed there is an actual line of exposed fossilized bones – a remnant of the K–T boundary , which marks the end of the age of dinosaurs (www.regionalwines.co.nz ). The owners chose the name to highlight this link between their vineyard and the ancient past. In fact, each wine label features images of fossils found right on the property (www.regionalwines.co.nz ). So “The Bone Line” refers both to that fossil line in the river and the concept of making wine on a geological timeline, tying together history and terroir.
Does The Bone Line host weddings or special private events?
Yes, the property is available for private functions. According to their info, they love hosting events and do invite enquiries for weddings, corporate retreats, etc. (www.ticketfairy.com ). The outdoor and indoor spaces can be used for ceremonies, receptions or group dinners. If you’re considering this, you should contact them well in advance; the owners will work with you on catering (through Kate McMillan or outside vendors), entertainment, and tenting if needed. Keep in mind that because it’s a working winery and not a big hotel, it’s best suited to intimate gatherings of up to a few dozen people rather than very large weddings.
What wines is The Bone Line famous for?
Over the years The Bone Line has earned a strong reputation for a range of varieties. Wine critics and fans often single out their Sharkstone Chardonnay (a rich, mineral-driven Chardonnay) and their range of Rieslings (especially the “Hellblock” and dry styles) as standouts (www.ticketfairy.com ). Their Pinot Noirs and their Cabernet Franc are also highly regarded for being true to the cool Waipara climate. In other words, they’re known for full-bodied whites and refined reds that express North Canterbury’s terroir. Every wine they make carries the quarry theme: for example, “Riverbone Sauvignon Blanc” and “Megalodon Syrah” are named for local fossils on the labels. If you visit, consider trying a flight that showcases a white (or two) and a red to see the breadth of their winemaking. Don’t forget to ask about any trophy-winning or limited-release wines on the list – being award-winning doesn’t hurt their cellar-door bragging rights!
