[2]: 18 Almost all the region's vineyards are concentrated in a relatively small area north of the city of Christchurch, which has prompted the establishment of two smaller sub-region geographical indications within it.

[citation needed] Waipara Valley is a small geographical indication about 60 kilometres (37 mi) north of Christchurch, and was established as the first sub-region of the larger Canterbury GI.

[5] Liam Steevenson MW has described Waipara as possibly the "most exciting place to grow Pinot Noir".

[12] Only 168 hectares (420 acres) of vineyards are planted outside the Waipara Valley GI boundary, concentrated in a few small areas such as West Melton, Banks Peninsula, Cheviot, and Rolleston.

[4] Further inland from Waipara, the limestone soils around Waikari are producing well-reviewed wine from Bell Hill and Pyramid Valley, using organic and/or biodynamic production methods, and close-planted vineyards.