All Our People

Alastair Scott

Owner

Having harbored a lifelong dream of owning a winery and crafting exceptional New Zealand wines, Alastair turned his vision into reality upon his return from living and working abroad.

Nostalgic for the Wairarapa region of his childhood, Alastair knew precisely where to begin his quest for the perfect terroir to produce outstanding Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc wines.

Today, Alastair’s dedication to crafting award-winning wines that reflect the essence and flavors of the Wairarapa is not just a passion but also his thriving business. He actively participates in the winery’s strategic growth and plays a hands-on role.

“I used to dream of owning a vineyard; now, I dream of sharing its wines with the world. My team and I take great pleasure in collaborating with buyers to promote Matahiwi Estate’s wines both domestically and overseas,” says Alastair, who also boasts a talent for delivering ‘dad jokes’ with flair.

Miles Dinneen

Winemaker

Miles Dinneen, a native of Hawkes Bay, grew up attending school just beyond the vineyard’s back fence. With over two decades of experience in the wine industry, Miles is the go-to person for insights into our region’s history and the myriad reasons why it’s an exceptional place to produce wine!

As a winemaker he has received many high-profile accolades including most recently the Best Syrah in the World (International Wine Challenge, 2018), showing the Aussies how it is done!  He has also received the Six Nations Wine Awards Best Red Blend (2016), Best New Zealand Chardonnay (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2016), Best New Zealand Red Wine (International Wine Challenge, 2014) and Best NZ Red Varietal (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2013). And more recently IWC Trophy for best Wairarapa Pinot Noir, International Cool Climate Trophy for International Wine, Japan Wine Challange Trophy for Rose all in the past year!

When not making wine, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children, painting, hunting, hiking and travelling. Also fascinated with rainbows!

Karina Southey

Vineyard Manager

Karina, our dedicated vineyard manager, is a true Wairarapa native, born and raised in the heart of the region. With a passion for the vines, she relishes every moment out in the vineyard, regardless of the weather. Renowned in the industry for her exceptional vineyard management skills, Karina is about to embark on her 10th vintage as the boss, a testament to her knowledge and commitment.

Beyond the vineyard, Karina loves exploring the rugged beauty of the Tararua ranges, often venturing on tramps to peaks like Mt Hector and Mt Holdsworth, as well as loving being out at the beach.

Fleur Nicol

Sales and Marketing Manager

Fleur wears many hats at Matahiwi – she’s our Sales and Marketing guru and the go-to for anything tricky! Before joining us, she was all about enjoying wine as a consumer. Now, she handles customers from all walks of life, from global exporters to local buyers, big or small.

Catch Fleur at local tastings and events – she loves meeting new faces so make sure you come and say hi!

Outside of work, Fleur’s all about family time and checking out what our competitors are up to. Oh, and she’s got this thing about peaches… totally irrational fear!

Robyn Noble-Campbell

Robyn is the friendly face you will meet at trade shows or our events. In addition, she is our logistics and marketing guru, looking after exports and accounts, as well as local customers.

Outside of work Robyn spends most her time supporting a houseful of busy teenagers. And satisfying her OCD.