Tussock Hill: Summer Vibes & Vineyard Views in Christchurch

Perched high on the volcanic slopes of the Port Hills, Tussock Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door Restaurant is one of Christchurch’s most rewarding summer destinations. Just minutes from the city, yet feeling wonderfully removed, it offers a rare combination of vineyard tranquillity, exceptional food and wine, and sweeping views across the city and beyond.

Arriving at Tussock Hill on a warm summer’s day feels like a quiet escape. The vines frame the outlook, the light dances across the tables, and there’s an unmistakable sense that time slows here. It’s fresh, open and inviting — a place where lunch effortlessly stretches into the afternoon.

Seasonal Food, Thoughtfully Executed

The menu at Tussock Hill is built around fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, designed for sharing and discovery. Plates arrive vibrant and beautifully balanced, showcasing Canterbury produce at its best.

From light, summery starters to more substantial plates, each dish feels considered without being overworked. Vegetables are treated with care, flavours are clean and confident, and textures play an important role. 

Everything feels aligned with the setting that is fresh, honest and grounded in the season.
Dessert continues this theme, offering bright, refreshing finishes that suit warm days and long lunches, rather than heavy finales.
Wine, Pet-Nat & Perfect Summer Sips
Wine is, of course, at the heart of the Tussock Hill experience. Known for their organic and minimal-intervention approach, the vineyard produces wines that reflect both place and season.

The Pétillant Naturel stood out as a highlight — a rare find and a signature for Tussock Hill. Crisp, lively and beautifully suited to summer, it’s the kind of wine that invites another glass, especially enjoyed amongst the vines where it was grown.

For those seeking something lighter in the heat, a refreshing gin and tonic also proved the perfect companion — cool, citrus-bright and ideal for hot Christchurch afternoons.

Atmosphere & Service That Elevate the Experience

Despite a full house, the service flowed seamlessly. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable and genuinely warm, managing the busy lunch service with ease. There was a calm rhythm to the day — plates arrived at the right pace, glasses were topped up without interruption, and recommendations were offered with confidence.

This sense of flow made the lunch feel relaxed and unhurried, even at peak time — a true marker of a well-run hospitality experience.

Why Tussock Hill Works So Well

Tussock Hill delivers something rare: a vineyard lunch that feels special yet accessible. It’s close to the city but feels like a destination. The food is refined but approachable. The wine is distinctive, with the pet-nat offering something genuinely memorable. And the setting, surrounded by vines, sunshine and expansive views is undeniably one of Christchurch’s finest.
It’s the kind of place you return to, whether for a celebratory lunch, visitors from out of town, or simply to soak up summer in Canterbury at its best.

Location:
Tussock Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door Restaurant
210 Huntsbury Avenue, Cashmere, Christchurch, New Zealand

Website:
www.tussockhill.co.nz

Instagram:
@tussockhill