With over 20 years developing substantial knowledge and expertise in growing grapes for the production of wine in New Zealand, and a post graduate diploma in Oenology and Viticulture, Anita is a perfect fit as Vineyard Manager for Thompsons Horticulture.

Managing over 100 hectares for Thompson’s clients, the varying seasonal changes both challenge and satisfy her. She has developed a sound understanding of Gisborne’s climate and soil types and the way different grapes respond to these. Anita’s other ‘string to her bow’ is having solid experience in making wine and preparing it for export with an understanding of the MPI and WEC requirements for large customers like Tesco’s, Marks and Spencer and Kingsland, to name a few.

As manager, Anita can have up a team of up to 20 people working alongside her and enjoys helping them learn new skills and develop a passion for the vineyard and producing excellent fruit.

Outside of work, Anita and her husband share a passion for cooking. They also love to travel, walking their dogs on the beach and gardening on their ½-hectare section. After a big day on the vineyards, Anita likes to wind down with a good session of Zumba.