About Us

Meet our winemaker
Austin is a passionate winemaker who’s made Central Otago his home. Originally from Ireland, he brings nearly two decades of experience from around the world, but it’s the unique character of Central Otago that inspires his approach to crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines.
More about Austin
Austin is a passionate Winemaker with a deep connection to the land and a commitment to crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines. His journey began when he relocated from his native Ireland to New Zealand in 2006, pursuing Wine Science studies at Auckland University and immersing himself in the world of winemaking.
With nearly two decades of global experience—including time spent honing his craft in Burgundy, Austria, the USA, and Australia—Austin has developed a distinctive style shaped by his international perspective. However, it is in Central Otago, with notable roles at Chard Farm, Terra Sancta, and Prophet’s Rock, that he has truly found his winemaking home.
Fuelled by a passion and a belief in the magic of Central Otago’s rugged beauty, Austin strives to create wines that reflect the soul of the vineyard. "There is nowhere quite like Central Otago – it is a magical place to live and make wine in," he says, inspired daily by the unique people, landscapes, and energy of the region.

Meet our Viticulturist
Gary Crabbe combines decades of Central Otago viticulture with organic, soil-focused methods, producing balanced, expressive wines while protecting vineyard health for future generations.
More about Gary
Gary brings decades of experience in Central Otago viticulture, with a deep focus on soil health, organic practices and long-term sustainability. He uses compost teas, fish extracts, seaweed and biodynamic principles to encourage soil life and vine health, helping Bald Hills produce wines with intensity and balance.
Gary works closely with the region's organic growers, sharing knowledge to continually lift quality standards. With climate change already shifting harvest patterns, he constantly adapts vineyard management to protect both vine quality and water resources. For Gary, great wine starts with living soils, careful observation, and a long-term view that puts the land first.

Maree Anthony, Sales and Marketing Manager (NZ)
With over 15 years in the NZ Wine Industry, Maree has strong experience building premium wine brands in both domestic and off-shore markets. Maree has been working with Bald Hills since 2017, increasing awareness for this boutique brand and driving distribution growth.