Chapter one of the Nga Waka story is set in Paris. The year was 1974, as it happens the year the first, experimental New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc was produced. Gordon Parkinson, a career diplomat, took up a posting at the New Zealand Embassy in the French capital. As he and his young family settled into life in France, Gordon became captivated by the wines of the Old World. He explored, tasted and collected. This fascination with wine rubbed off on his son, Roger and was, in turn, the impetus for the eventual establishment of Nga Waka Vineyard in Martinborough. Great wine expresses its particular site; it reflects a sense of place. The name Nga Waka is taken from Nga Waka A Kupe (The Canoes of Kupe) to reflect this particular place; three hills, which lie like upturned canoes, form a backdrop for the town of Martinborough. Legend has it that the hills were formed by the three canoes of the Polynesian explorer Kupe, carried inland by a huge earthquake and coming to rest in the valley behind Martinborough Nga Waka remains a family business. Winemaker and CEO Roger Parkinson is a Roseworthy College graduate and prizewinner with experience in winemaking and viticulture in New Zealand, Australia and France. He is responsible for all aspects of production. His wife Carol is qualified in business studies and is responsible for financial management. Roger’s parents, Margaret and Gordon, now retired, maintain an active interest.