Matawhero Wines

The Story of the Winery

The Matawhero journey started with two New Zealand wine pioneers from the 1960s. Today the story continues around the drive and determination of Kirsten and Richard Searle. who purchased the Matawhero vineyard and winery in Gisborne from Denis in 2008. They are the trusted Kaitiaki (guardians) of Matawhero and continue to develop the iconic winery and share the distinctive wine styles of the Tairawhiti-Gisborne region. They produce famous New Zealand Chardonnay and other wines including aromatics like Gewürztraminer and lovely Reds.

Passionate Winelovers

The Matawhero winery and vineyards in Gisborne were purchased by Kirsten and Richard Searle in 2008 from New Zealand pioneer winemaker Denis Irwin. After a rigorous process on Denis’s part to ensure that the baton was being passed to someone equally as passionate about wine and the region as he was, he willed us on and the hard work began replanting and revitalizing the historic winery.

Their love of the region runs deep, Richard grew up here and with a family history of growing grapes, they wouldn’t want to be doing anything else!

Matawhero has a colorful history that underpins our journey so far. Our first vintage in 1975 under the watch of Bill and Denis Irwin put New Zealand on the world wine map with a reputation for rebellious and flamboyant flavours and varietals. Son Denis imparted his own colorful style and won fame for his Gewurztraminer and famous New Zealand Chardonnays – everyone was drinking it, even the Queen!