Sustainability has been a key ethos of North Auckland vineyard Brick Bay, which has been awarded a Qualmark Gold certification.
As visitors arrive at Brick Bay, sculptures emerge along the driveway, a subtle indication that this is no ordinary vineyard, but a sensory retreat where design, hospitality, and nature intersect with intention.
Just an hour north of Auckland, this 150-acre estate, owned by Christine and Richard Didsbury, spans native bush, regenerated wetlands, and a vineyard. Brick Bay offers a uniquely immersive experience that weaves together sculpture, landscape, architecture, dining, and wine, rooted in a deep creative vision with a long-standing commitment to sustainability.
Since purchasing the land in 1986, the Didsbury family have embedded their vision into every corner of Brick Bay. What began with planting native trees and establishing olive groves, evolved into a multi-faceted estate that includes a working vineyard, The Glass House Restaurant, and the renowned two-kilometre Sculpture Trail, featuring over 60 contemporary works by New Zealand artists.
Curated in collaboration with the Brick Bay Sculpture Trust, the trail not only deepens the visitor experience but also supports emerging and established artists by, at times, providing interest-free loans to help cover material costs and offering exhibition opportunities.
Brick Bay’s passion for art, creativity, and sustainability has long shaped the on-site experience. But until recently, this wasn’t fully reflected in its digital presence. Looking to better capture the essence of the estate and expand its reach, Brick Bay collaborated with creative agency Rainger & Rolfe to evolve their digital identity.
“Brick Bay has always been a remarkable destination in person, but that same feeling didn’t translate online,” said Fiona Stewart, General Manager at Brick Bay.
“We needed a digital presence that truly reflected our story, our values, and the full experience we offer, while also reaching new audiences.”
Working closely with the team, Rainger & Rolfe ensured the new website mirrors the depth and beauty of the physical experience. From virtual views and enhanced storytelling to dedicated sections on Brick Bay’s origins, history, people, and special events, the refreshed platform invites discovery while supporting the estate’s continued growth. It showcases the breadth of the Brick Bay experience, not simply as a winery or a sculpture walk, but as a holistic journey where every element is thoughtfully connected.
Brick Bay’s commitment to sustainability and connection to the land is visible at every turn. The Glass House Restaurant operates with a closed-loop recycling system and serves seasonal dishes sourced from the land and the surrounding region. Estate-raised lamb, heirloom produce, honey, and olive oil feature regularly on the menu. Grown and bottled on-site, its wines reflect the distinctive qualities of the Matakana Coast. Rainwater harvesting supports the restaurant and buildings, while regenerated wetlands and native bush support local biodiversity. In the vineyard, organic sprays and composting practices help nourish the soil, while sheep graze the hills and bees from neighbouring hives pollinate the flora.
This integrated approach has earned Brick Bay a Qualmark Gold certification, Tourism New Zealand’s highest award for operators who demonstrate excellence in sustainable practices. Achieved on its first evaluation, the recognition highlights Brick Bay’s dedication to environmental care and guest experience, reinforcing its place as a leader in conscious tourism.
Looking ahead, Brick Bay is deepening its appeal as a full-day destination for those seeking a meaningful escape, a place to pause, disconnect and recharge. As a part of this vision, the recent addition of Saturday night dinners at The Glass House Restaurant has invited guests to linger even longer, bringing a new way to experience the estate after hours.
At Brick Bay, there’s a quiet intentionality that runs through it all, not in the polished sense of performance, but in a way that feels deeply human. Despite its design sophistication, Brick Bay remains grounded in its family roots and personal vision. Sustainability here isn’t a slogan or a strategy, it’s simply how things are done. The team at Brick Bay speak about the values of the estate with ease and familiarity, making the experience feel intimate rather than curated. There’s an atmosphere that’s hard to describe, but easy to feel. Guests don’t just leave with memories of a beautiful meal or glass of wine—they leave with a sense of having been part of something meaningful, lasting, and real.
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