We never expected to end up on the Teviotdale Hills, but in 2020 we walked Fernbank for the first time and the land made the decision for us.
Planted back in 2002 on rare clay-limestone soils, we took it on just months before our first harvest and dove straight into vintage – committing from day one to organic, Bio-Grow practices that let the land speak for itself. Each season leaves its own fingerprint on the wine, and for us, that honesty is what makes it worth savouring.
Matt and Helen met while working together, and that partnership has become one of their greatest strengths. Matt brings a can-do attitude and a love of figuring things out, while Helen brings resourcefulness and stubborn optimism – together, they make a team that keeps the vineyard thriving through every challenge. They started Fernbank while juggling two full-time jobs which taught them to make every moment in the vineyard count. These lessons have paid off: today, they co-lease two smaller vineyards and run a contracting business supporting other local growers, driven by a real passion for the Waipara wine region and the community that makes it special.
Q&A with Matt & Helen from Fernbank Wines
Why North Canterbury? Honestly, a job is what first brought us here, and we always thought we’d move north eventually to be closer to family. But time flies when you’re having fun! The wine community in North Canterbury is small enough that people genuinely care, but large enough to really support each other, and we quickly realised we wouldn’t find that same spirit anywhere else. We felt so grounded here that buying the vineyard was the natural next step.
What’s your favourite thing to do in North Canterbury? Support local! We live within walking distance from Brew Moon and D.O.T.I so we enjoy their hospitality during our downtimes. A hike up Mount Grey is great for dusting off the cobwebs and giving the dog a change of scenery from the vineyard rows. A weekend getaway to Hanmer Springs is our go to in winter too… cosy, close enough and quiet- just what we need!
Name your top three North Canterbury brands (other than your own!): Kin Grove Olive Oil – next level flavour and love their branding and other products. Garry River Farm – meet Nigel and Glenda and you’ll know why! Wild Child Ferments – THE best flavours and awesome female business owner.
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Fernbank Wines – CHAPTER ONE Pinot Noir 2021
