Discover another side to New Zealand wine! The Matawhero journey started with two New Zealand wine pioneers from the 1960s, Bill and Denis Irwin. Today the story continues around the drive and determination of Kirsten and Richard Searle, who purchased the vineyard in 2008. They have continued to develop the iconic winery and share the distinctive wine styles of the Gisborne region. Their love of the region runs deep and their vines are the first in the world to greet the new day.

Purchased by Richard & Kirsten Searle in 2008, the 15 hectare Matawhero Estate has now been replanted and revitalised. This revival comes from our passion to produce distinctive single vineyard wines with the intense fruit flavours and roundness that is reflective of the Gisborne terroir. We wanted to truly showcase the best of our wonderful region.