Last updated June 2026
Zealong Tea Estate is New Zealand’s only commercial tea plantation, located in Gordonton just a short drive from Hamilton. The 48-hectare certified organic estate produces award-winning green, oolong and black teas from 1.2 million Camellia sinensis bushes. Visitors enjoy guided experiences, high tea in the Tea Room with views over the terraces, and the chance to purchase teas direct from the source. The estate combines Taiwanese heritage with Waikato innovation and sustainable practices.
Practical Information
| Address | 495 Gordonton Road, Gordonton, Waikato |
| Distance from Hamilton | Approximately 15 minutes’ drive |
| Distance from Auckland | About 1.5 hours’ drive |
| Opening (Retail Boutique) | Thursday–Sunday, 9:30am–5:00pm |
| High Tea / Light Lunch | Monday, Thursday–Sunday, 10:00am–5:00pm (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays) |
| Guided Tours | Saturdays (book in advance); private bookings available |
| Organic Certification | BioGro (EU, USDA, China, Japan compliant) |
| Pets | Not permitted except registered service dogs |
| Parking | On-site available |
About Zealong Tea Estate
Zealong Tea Estate occupies former dairy farmland in the fertile Waikato region. Founder Vincent Chen began the project in 1996 after importing tea cuttings from Asia. Following quarantine, only 130 plants survived; these were propagated into the current 1.2 million bushes across 48 hectares of certified organic land.
The estate produces 100% New Zealand-grown organic teas using traditional techniques combined with modern indoor processing to maintain quality and traceability. The rolling tea terraces support native birds and wildlife while demonstrating sustainable agriculture in a region better known for dairy.
Zealong blends Taiwanese heritage with local innovation. It has become a Waikato icon and popular day-trip destination for tea enthusiasts, offering immersive tastings and dining against the backdrop of the plantation.
Visiting Zealong Tea Estate
The Tea Room serves Signature High Tea and light lunch sets featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients paired with Zealong teas. Indoor and outdoor seating overlooks the terraces. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends.
Guided tours on Saturdays include a traditional tea ceremony, tasting, and walk through the gardens and sculpture trail. Shorter afternoon tastings are also available. The retail boutique sells the full range of loose-leaf teas, gift packs and accessories Thursday to Sunday.
Private bookings and venue hire for events or weddings are offered. The estate is a short drive from Hamilton and makes an easy addition to other Waikato day trips.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the peaceful setting and the quality of the teas, noting the informative tours and beautiful views over the terraces. Many describe the high tea as elegant and memorable, with fresh, seasonal treats that pair perfectly with the estate’s organic blends.
Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and the unique experience of seeing tea grown and processed in New Zealand. The boutique is popular for purchasing gifts, and guests appreciate the serene, well-maintained grounds suitable for a relaxed half-day visit.
Where to Learn More
Zealong Tea Estate official website: Details on tours, Tea Room reservations, shop and sustainability initiatives.
NewZealand.com Zealong listing: Official tourism information and visitor planning resources.
Zealong Story page: History of the estate, organic certification and production details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tea are produced at Zealong?
Zealong produces 100% certified organic green, oolong and black teas grown and processed on-site.
Do I need to book a guided tour in advance?
Yes, Saturday tours should be booked ahead; private tours are available on request by contacting the estate.
Is the Tea Room open every day?
The Tea Room for high tea and light lunch operates Monday and Thursday to Sunday; it is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are not permitted except for registered service dogs, for health and safety reasons.
Is photography allowed on tours?
Photography is permitted during tours and around the estate while respecting other visitors.
Are tours suitable for children?
Tours have no specific age restrictions and are generally family-friendly.
Where can I buy Zealong tea?
Teas and gifts are available at the on-site retail boutique (Thursday–Sunday) and via the online shop.
How far is Zealong from Hamilton?
The estate is approximately a 15-minute drive from central Hamilton.
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