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Moko Hills
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.
What we love about
Central Otago
Central Otago is not only defined by its drastic beauty and rugged landscape, but by the people that make it their home. Collaboration, creativity and pure passion – a few things that make me call Central Otago home and the people here family. Donald van der Westhuizen - Winemaker & Viticulturalist
About Us
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.
Planting his family vineyard in 2017, the rest is history. He now manages all operations at Moko Hills and very much excited of the future to come.
