Our Soils

John O'Connor is one of the early pioneers of the Gimblett Gravels region. From his days running around the then desolate scrub land, on rugby training runs as a Junior All Black he wondered at the grape growing potential of this undeveloped area.

30 years later after having initially bought up 170 hectares and then selling off parts to consolidate holdings in what is now Matariki Estate, his early vision has become a reality to him as well as an example copied by many others.

The 68.2 hectares of Matariki Estate constitutes a uniquely mixed diversity of old Omahu riverbed soils sitting on various depths of gravel beds. This mix was deliberately selected by John in order to provide blend options to Matariki Wines and to offer the best potential to match a range of soils to varieties.

Aerial view of the Gimblett Gravels Vineyard

For further information on Gimblett Gravels soils see - www.gimblettgravels.com