About the Winery
Moko Hills is a family-owned estate encompassed within the foothills of the Dunstan Range, overlooking Lake Dunstan. The vineyard blocks are embraced by a unique mix of native flora and fauna – Stands of kānuka and kōwhai hugging the outcrops of quartz and schist. Among these iconic trees, a range of native shrubs, mosses and fungal communities intertwine, creating home and refuge for a range of endemic species. Lizards | Mokomoko, such as the kawarau gecko, bathe upon the sun-baked rock, blending into the mossy cover. Pairs of Fantails | Pīwakawaka dance between branches, snapping up the occasional insect.
The single vineyard wines produced signify a tribute to this diverse environment and the unique mix of flora and fauna that call Moko Hills home.
Organically and sustainably grown grapes.
Minimal intervention winemaking.
Moko Hills is managed with permaculture and generative agriculture principles in mind. A goal of creating a diverse agriculture and horticulture food production system to support the needs of the wider Moko Hills family and friends.
Meet the Team
Donald van der Westhuizen – owner, winemaker, viticulturist
Born in South Africa, Donald moved to New Zealand at a young age. After obtaining a Science degree in Conservation and Biosecurity at the University of Auckland, and a subsequent Masters in Ecosystem Ecology, he worked as a Research Ecologist throughout New Zealand and the South Pacific. After catching the ‘wine bug’ while based in Nelson, he decided to redirect his focus, returning to the University of Auckland to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Wine Science, later cementing his passion in vintages in Central Otago, Burgundy, and Oregon. He planted his family vineyard in 2017; the rest is history. He now manages all operations at Moko Hills and is very much excited about the future to come.
