Andrew Donaldson
Founder
Central Otago has always been Andrew's home - even when he wasn't living there. When the opportunity arose to develop a stunning site into a top tier producer of Pinot Noir he realised a cherished dream; a long term project of the nature and in the nature that he adores. Serendipity came calling when his favourite place in the world became the most exciting place in the New World to make his favourite wine.
Steve Blackmore
Vineyard Manager
Steve became the operational lynchpin of the project in 2004. After completing his viticultural degree at Lincoln University he wanted to put his knowledge and international experience to work in a young pinot vineyard that he could shape as he thought best. In recent years he has taken over all operational responsibilities and now sees the fruits of each year's labour progress from bud-burst to bottle.
Floyd
Rabbiter
Floyd was born in the Maungawera Valley not far from the vineyard to Beagle & Fox Terrier parents. He is an obsessive rabbit hunter and if he could he'd spend all day in the hills, which indeed he often does.
Dr Dave Jordan
Principal Consultant
DJ has worked as our principal advisor since the project's inception in 2001 and has been instrumental in its success to date. He wrote our first feasibility study and continues to apply in excess of 30 years of grape and wine business experience to the evolution of akitu. As one of New Zealand's leading viticultural experts his clients unsurprisingly include premium wine producers throughout Australasia.
PJ Charteris
Consultant Winemaker
PJ joined us to expertly handle our 2012 debut vintage, he can justifiably be regarded as a New World pinot expert having handled multiple vintages in some of the world's most exciting regions. He has an outstanding reputation as one of Australia’s leading winemakers, is an active show judge and in 2010 the Hunter Valley Wine Industry honoured him with Winemaker of the Year.
Scott Donaldson
Admin / Sales
Back in early 2015 and after 16 years away Scott happily returned to live in Wanaka. He joined the akitu team to look after all our non viticultural logistics including shipping, administration and sales management. After 30+ years in film and tv production he is well used to priorities changing and the vulnerabilities of plans to variable weather - perfect background for this project.
New Zealand law states you must be 18+ years old to legally purchase alcohol, before purchasing akitu you warrant that you are of legal age.
Hawkesbury Estates promotes the responsible consumption of alcohol, we recommend drinking in moderation with food. Do not drink and drive.
Off-Licence 68/OFF/0011/2015 | Managers Certificates 68/CERT/0944/2016 & 68/CERT/0674/2014