In the heart of Hawke’s Bay, one of the Great Wine Capitals of the world, an annual event has gained increasing attention, both locally and nationally, for its blend of fine wines, generosity, and community spirit: the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction. As an iconic fixture in the local wine scene for the last 32 years, this auction is not just a celebration of the region’s exceptional wine; it’s also a powerful demonstration of how businesses and individuals can come together to make a tangible difference. This event proudly supports Cranford Hospice, a vital community healthcare service, making it a wine auction with a purpose.
A Premier Wine Event with a Heart
Hawke’s Bay has long been celebrated for its award-winning wines. The region’s unique climate and soil conditions are the perfect backdrop for producing world-class wines, especially red varieties like Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside exceptional Chardonnay. However, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction is more than just a showcase of this exceptional craftsmanship; it is an event that fuses luxury and philanthropy in a way that resonates deeply within the community.
Now in its 33rd year, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction brings together some of the country’s best wineries, prestigious local businesses, and passionate wine enthusiasts to raise much-needed funds for Cranford Hospice. For wineries and businesses involved in the auction, it offers a unique opportunity to be part of an event that embodies the spirit of giving back, while elevating the visibility of their brand in front of a captive audience of wine lovers and industry leaders.
Giving Back to Cranford Hospice
The real heart of the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction lies in its philanthropic cause. Cranford Hospice is a charitable organisation that provides palliative care to individuals with life-limiting illnesses, supporting them and their families through compassionate end-of-life care. The hospice is an invaluable service to the community, and each year, the wine auction donates 100% of the proceeds to support its work. Since the first event in 1992, the auction has raised over $4.9m for Cranford Hospice.
Through the auction, businesses and individuals help ensure that Cranford Hospice can continue its mission of offering comfort, dignity, and respect to those who need it most. With over 40 years of providing specialized care in the region, Cranford Hospice remains a lifeline for countless families, and the funds raised through the wine auction are vital in maintaining these services.
Why the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction Matters to Businesses
For local businesses, particularly those in the wine, hospitality, and tourism industries, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction offers an unparalleled platform to engage with a well-connected, high-net-worth audience. The event serves as a marketing opportunity to showcase their products and services while simultaneously supporting a worthy cause. This community-driven approach not only elevates a business’s corporate social responsibility profile but also deepens relationships with both clients and customers who value philanthropy.
Many of the auction’s top lots consist of rare and exclusive wines, often with the added allure of personalized experiences—whether it’s a private tour of a winery, an exclusive dinner with renowned winemakers, or even one-of-a-kind wine collections such as the Great Wine Capitals collection with premium wines donated from the other capitals around the globe.
Moreover, this auction fosters an environment where collaboration between businesses—whether they are local wineries, hospitality services, or even corporate sponsors—thrives. The collective effort of all those involved in the event helps create an engaging and successful platform for auctioning the best wines Hawke’s Bay has to offer, all while supporting a cause that resonates deeply with the community.
What’s new this year?
Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction organisers have announced a new partnership with The Wine Auction Room, an Auckland based auction house who specialise in curated auctions for rare and fine wine and spirits. Through this partnership, live online bidding will be available for the first time. This new feature will allow national and international wine collectors to bid in real-time, making it easier than ever to acquire Hawke’s Bay’s finest wines from anywhere in the world.
While lot information won’t be released until 1st July, there’s expected to be an increase in barrique and half-barrique lots in 2025, and a range of new wine experience partners, providing unique behind-the-scenes winemaking and dining experiences.
Sip, Bid, and Make a Difference
As the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction continues to grow in prestige, it remains grounded in its mission to provide essential funds for Cranford Hospice. This event is a perfect example of how business and community can collaborate to not only celebrate the finest of New Zealand’s wine industry but also make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most. For businesses, there is no better way to show support for a worthy cause while showcasing the quality and dedication that define the Hawke’s Bay region.
So, whether you’re a wine lover, a business looking to make a mark, or someone with a deep appreciation for philanthropy, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction offers an opportunity to both enjoy the finest wines and contribute to the future of Cranford Hospice. Together, we can raise a glass to Hawke’s Bay and to the power of giving back.
Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction
Saturday 13th September 2025
ToiToi Arts & Events Centre, Hastings NZ
www.hawkesbaywineauction.co.nz