It’s easy to image how many afternoons can be whiled away at this Waipara Valley vineyard and cellar door.

With rolling North Canterbury hills in the background, rows of grapevines in the fore and a glass of wine in your hand - Terrace Edge is the classy yet laid back winery atmosphere you’ve been looking for.

A humble wooden sign leads oenophiles and the wine-curious to the sleek concrete-floored, white-walled Tasting Shed. Here, exposed beams are painted black and light fixtures hang low over a cosy leather couch, dining table and bar seating inside.

Outdoors, lush grass and wooden seating awaits - overlooking the family-owned vineyard and olive grove.

Sample the award-winning varietals from pinot noir, syrah and rose to riesling and sauvignon blanc, as well as Terrace Edge’s own brand olives and pressed olive oils. A gourmet toastie menu, featuring braised beef, sticky pork and other changing combinations on ciabatta bread, is also on offer.

Whether you choose to soak in the sunshine or nestle indoors, we don’t think it would be hard - or a bad idea - to lose track of time at Terrace Edge.