If you’re looking for an inspiring local business book to digest over the holiday period, look no further than The Winemaker. Published to coincide with Villa Maria’s 50th vintage celebrations, this is the fascinating story of George Fistonich, New Zealand’s first New Zealand wine-industry knight, and a winery that had the most humble of beginnings in a small outbuilding in Mangere. Kerry Tyack’s book is a portrait of a determined, savvy and visionary New Zealander, whose life in wine mirrors the history of the modern New Zealand wine industry. This well-illustrated 320-page book reveals that George had a great instinct for wine and a real talent for picking winning employees – many of whom went on to successful careers within the New Zealand wine business. You’ll also discover just how highly innovative Villa Maria has been over the years, and how it achieved a ‘miraculous recovery’ from the savage price wars of the mid-1980s. A superb read for wine lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone who wants to learn the secrets of leadership and business success from an iconic Kiwi.
ISBN: 978-18697-99779
NZBusiness Knowledge Series: Stop winging it, build a business strategy that actually works
Thursday 30 July 2026 | 7:00am – 9:00pm
📍 Covert Theatre, 51 Mackelvie Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Everyone talks about the importance of business strategy, but what does it actually mean in practice? Strategy trainer Ryan Sproull cuts through the jargon to give SME owners a clear, practical framework for thinking strategically about their business.
