Winery Tour stars to be named soon

The popular Winery Tour is hitting Northland again next year, but the Kiwi stars taking to the stage at Matakana and Tutukaka won't be known until later in the month.

The Classic Hits Winery Tour will kick off it's national tour at Matakana's Ascension Wine Estate on February 3 and 4, with the next gig at Tutukaka Marina Reserve on February 5.

It'll be the third year in a row the Winery Tour has visited Tutukaka, but Classic Hits is the tour's new sponsor, taking over from More FM.

Now in its sixth year, the Winery Tour is a firmly established and much-loved national touring event.

In 2012 it will include 16 shows in 14 venues nationwide, with the artist line-up to be announced on October 27.

Co-promoter Brent Eccles said in six years the number of shows had more than doubled, a true reflection of the popularity of this summer outdoor series.

"It's a winning combination of great Kiwi music, food and wine, surrounded by some of NZ's most spectacular scenery," Mr Eccles said.

"We are delighted to welcome Classic Hits into the Winery Tour family. Classic Hits is a perfect match for this event, we couldn't have a better presenting radio partner."

David Brice, the Radio Network's content group general manager, said Classic Hits was excited to present such an exceptional annual outdoor summer series.

"The annual Winery Tour has become a 'must do' on the summer events calendar for thousands of Kiwi music lovers.

"We are thrilled to be on board," Mr Brice said.

The artist line-up will be announced on Classic Hits at 7.10am, October 27.

For all details and updates go to www.winerytour.co.nz or www.classichits.co.nz.