The couple putting their combined passion and expertise behind Carrick Vineyard and Winery in Bannockburn talk about the path forward in 2021 and beyond.

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Taking over as owners of Carrick Vineyard and Winery was a dream come true, says Tony, as he and Alison settle in for a relaxed chat about their move.

“We lived in Southland and have had a holiday place in Wanaka for about the past twenty years.

“For years, Carrick was our favourite place to go to. 

“Then just before Christmas we went for a bike ride here, we said to each other we should take a look at this, and a week later we had it all signed up.”

Tony says their background was in farming dairy, sheep and beef.

Tony and Alison are working towards Carrick becoming a destination.

“We share-milked in the Waikato, then bought a farm down south. 

“We built that business up and then ended up starting a management company to manage assets for the likes of NZ Super Fund.

“We managed vineyards in Marlborough, hops, apples, and now we’ve made our own investment into a vineyard.”

“And we’ve always had a keen interest in wine,” adds Alison.

After one month living at Carrick, both agree things are looking really good.

“There’s been a lot to do, it’s been hectic, but much less stressful than I was expecting.”

Tony says he brought his skills in governance to the table, and was busy helping the management team do some long term planning, offering direction.

“The team has the technical and industry knowledge, Alison’s the creative one, and I have that skill in governance and strategy.

“It’s what I do with the management company. A big focus on having a clear business plan is vital.

“Having us as owners living on the place means we have a real feel for the business and we can be of real help to the management team.”

Tony says they are responding to how the business had changed in the short term due to the impacts of COVID and planning for the long term as overseas visitors return. 

“We’ve employed a dedicated marketing manager and we’re getting much better at online sales.”

Alison agrees a focus on better marketing was crucial both short and long term. With overseas visitors not able to come to them, they would work to improve the way they sold wine overseas.

Tony adds the strategies they are bringing in now are things they would have done anyway. COVID has just made them move faster, and because of that push, the end result will be better for it. 

“The cycle trail is going to be very good for us,” Alison says.

“We’re adapting for the growing number of cyclists who stop here for tea or coffee. The business is not only about the wine.”

Alison explains the chef is now making fresh scones each morning, and the team are responding to the needs of the people coming in the door.

“It’s about having us known as a destination, and we’re also going to get back to doing more events.

“We’re planning accommodation so you can come to cycle, stay and enjoy the wine, the restaurant, the whole experience.”

Tony says they had been so busy since taking over, they hadn’t had a chance to meet many people in the community.

“We get talking to the locals who come in here and we’re getting to know a few people.

“We rely on those Central Otago locals who come in here regularly.

“The feedback has been really positive and we’ve got good numbers coming through.

“Everyone seems really excited that local New Zealanders have bought Carrick.

“I think since we’ve moved in here, I’ve slept a lot better.

“Everything’s just falling into place, we’ve got staff for harvest, we’ve got marketing and admin people - nothing unexpected has happened - yet.

“I think the biggest thing is that things are always changing. COVID just sped things up so you need to look at things a little differently and you can’t just rely on what’s been done before because we’re in a different environment.

“It’s about embracing change and knowing that change is rapid just now.

“The team here has done well under tough times for the last couple of years, so we’re leaving things in place that work well and changing to meet the new environment where we have to.”

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