VILLAGE VINEYARDS

In 2019, 265 Te Mata Road and its vineyard was purchased by our family. Under the guidance of our son Rhys, Village Vineyards was established. The story highlights our early days as orchardists in Havelock North and the vast struggles and triumphs that came with them. The changing landscape brought a shift from orchard to vineyard whilst the areas artisanal culture continued to thrive. Neighboring growers and artists inspire our contribution which is to make wines that champion rural Havelock North. Our philosophy is straightforward; responding to the lands unique voice and respecting it with organic, hands-on viticulture.

– Dai & Jenny Evans

VILLAGE ORCHARD

In 1981, the Village Orchard of Havelock North was established by Dai and Jenny. What ensued was a supply of world class fruit that filled New Zealand lunchboxes and market shelves for 20 years. The Bay’s idyllic climate and Arataki Roads fertile soils were key factors but plenty of graft and toil was needed to make it work. With sons Bryn, Rhys and Gareth, hands became available to help fill apple bins, herd sheep and drag irrigation pipes. They picked their last bins in 2003. Rugby for Bryn and Gareth, and wineries for Rhys, saw the boys fill the years with plenty of travel and experiences before returning to settle in Hawkes Bay. The impending development of the once bustling Village Orchard saw the family look for land as they yearned to return to their farming roots. When the sale of 265 Te Mata Road was finalized a chance was grasped to do just that