Don't just drink it - live it
Bishops Vineyard, New Zealand wine, lifestyle blocks, Ohau, Levin, Horowhenua,
Bishops Vineyard in Ohau, just south of Levin, grows award-winning grapes (their new Ohau Gravels label just won big in 2009 at the Bragato Wine Awards, NZ International Wine Show, and Air New Zealand Wine Awards); and now offers a range of premium lifestyle blocks. Some even include a share in the grapes produced from the soil. This rural setting accentuates the beauty of the vineyards in each season. The river, native tress, and backdrop of the spectacular Tararua Ranges, helps create the perfect lifestyle choice in a region that holds a wonderful life for its community
Its Coast Time!
Bishops Vineyard
A: Muhunoa East Rd, Ohau
T: 0508 BISHOPS
E: jhavill@xtra.co.nz (lifestyle blocks)
E: cellar@ohaugravels.co.nz (Ohau Gravels)
Bishops Vineyard was created and is cared for by a group of passionate individuals; developers Barry Clevely, Dave Munro and Hallam Cresswell, the vineyard's managers Kate and Tim Gibbs of Stanmore Farms, and winemaker Jane Cooper. They're touting the Horowhenua as the new wine country of New Zealand. "It's a combination of perfect soil, a climate very similar to Nelson, and plenty of good water," says Mr Clevely.
Before the land was purchased for growing grapes, it was tied up in dairy farming. When the farm was passed in at auction, the developers bought the property, not knowing what a wine making gem it was. "Then Kate Gibbs asked us if we really knew how good the quality of the soil was," says Barry. "We said, 'that sounds like grapes'. We got the digger out a few days later to test the soil."
The residential subdivision side of Bishops Vineyard is a unique way for people to get their rates paid; many of the sections include vines which are leased to the homeowners and profits are paid once the wine is sold. It's not common, but something that Bishop's are hoping to build on. "Where else can you sit in peace, drinking your own wine?"
The vineyard is being managed under sustainable wine growing management principles. It has interlinked walkways from the village greens through the vineyard blocks, to the totara stand and landscaped river reserve. The local lifestyle and facilities create real, rich experiences to raise children and lead a peaceful life.
Mr Clevely believes the Nature Coast is really building momentum with promoting tourism in the area. "When the road and train improves, just you wait. We've got 24,000 people going past our front gate every day."
"The strength of this area is a combination of all the building blocks. There are some passionate people here doing some great things."