Hawkes Bay Wine and Food by Rail

In 1994 the Ashworth family planted the first of their grapes on stony gravels of the Takapau plains and have progressively planted productive varietals of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Syrah and Flora since, with the vineyard, today producing award-winning, intense, aromatic wines. Junction Wines, brings the best there is in Hawkes Bay grapes.

Nestled amongst the mature trees in the grounds of Oruawharo Homestead is St Vincent’s which is the perfect venue for a function indoors or out. The historic St Vincent’s Church was relocated to Oruawharo in 2012 from the nearby township of Takapau. Oruawharo Homestead, what better place to taste some local wines and relax.

What better way to get there than by your own private train. Hauled by a pair of 1950s era diesel locomotives, departing from the Kapiti Coast just north of Wellington just as the clock strikes 8am, we make our way north through the Kapiti and Horowhenua districts, picking up at all intermediate stations. Following our last pick up of passengers at Palmerston, we curve around into the Manawatu Gorge. A drawcard for many tourists, the road through here that used to make up SH3, was wiped out a few years ago with heavy slips. Rail is now the only way to transit through this gorgeous area. After departure north east from Woodville, we follow the railway up the steep grades through Papatawa, through the populated township of Dannevirke. Further north, we pass through the beautifully restored railway precinct at Ormondville before travelling over the ever-impressive Ormondville Viaduct, spanning over 281m long and 39m above the Mangarangiora Stream. These grades are no match for our heritage horse power, as we arrive into Takapau.

Buses will be waiting to take you the short 3min trip into the serene gardens that surround Oruawharo Homestead. From here, located inside the St Vincents church, allow the families behind Junction Wines and Oruawharo Homestead to immerse you in the fresh produce that the Central Hawkes Bay can offer. It is here where your "Gold" or "Silver" token will ultimately come into play.

The Gold Package

If you hold a "Gold" token, you are entitled to four free tasters of Wine from Jo and John from Junction Wines. Take the time to speak to winemaker Leith, and learn about the contents of your glass.

The Gold Package also includes:

Chef William Lauder will take you through a series of complex flavours, in the form of a selection of 4 canapes and a delectable entree to accompany your glass:

- Truffle butter | Dinner roll - Roasted Agria & Dashi Soup | Sherry Vinaigrette - Prawn | Salsa Verde | Granny Smith - Beef Tartar | Black Pepper Cream | Crostini

- Confit chicken cassoulet | Waipawa Butchery sausage | black garlic

The Silver Package

If you hold a "Silver" token, you are entitled to two free tasters of Wine from Jo and John from Junction Wines. Take the time to speak to winemaker Leith, and learn about the contents of your glass.

The Silver Package also includes:

Chef William Lauder will take you through a series of complex flavours, in the form of a selection of 4 canapes:

- Truffle butter | Dinner roll - Roasted Agria & Dashi Soup | Sherry Vinaigrette - Prawn | Salsa Verde | Granny Smith - Beef Tartar | Black Pepper Cream | Crostini

Following your exploration into some beautiful local Hawkes Bay produce, it's time to head home, so board the buses and head back to the train as we whisk you back down country and drop you off back to where your day commenced. The train will be licensed, and drinks, both alcoholic and non, are available to purchase from our bar & lounge carriage as well as a range of hot and cold food available from our Buffet Car.

Sound delicious? Bookings available at www.steaminc.org.nz or by ringing 0800 783 264!

Don't delay - book today!