Nga Waka was established by the Parkinson family in 1988 and remains family operated to this day. The Parkinsons adhere to the French concept of 'terroir'; the idea that wine expresses its particular site, it reflects a sense of place. The name Nga Waka was chosen to reflect the familes sense of place. The name is taken from Nga Waka A Kupe (The Canoes of Kupe), the three hills, which lie like upturned canoes, forming a backdrop for the town of Martinborough. Producing food-friendly wines that are built to last, emphasizing structure, texture and balance. Nga Waka wines are bone dry and derive richness and concentration from low crops and optimal sunlight interception by the leaves and grapes. The vineyards are all accredited to Sustainable Winegrowing NZ, reflecting the importance Nga Waka attach to sustainable management practices and preserving the land for future generations.

Paul Mason joins Nga Waka as Head Winemaker from late 2024 (with the retirement of Roger Parkinson after an impressive 32 vintages.) Paul has had a 20-year tenure at Martinborough Vineyard where he has built an enviable reputation as an outstanding winemaker, winning many awards and accolades. Paul started in the wine industry after studying science at Auckland University and then winemaking at Lincoln University. He has worked vintages in New Zealand at Coopers Creek, de Redcliffe and Villa Maria and harvests in France, Italy, Chile, Australia and the US. He came to Martinborough in 2004 and in 2007 was appointed winemaker at Martinborough Vineyard, following in the steps of Claire Mulholland (Burn Cottage) and Pinot Noir pioneer Larry McKenna. His in-depth understanding of Martinborough and passion for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay makes him particularly well-suited to Nga Waka, with these varieties making up 90% of our production.