Whitehaven Wines

Whitehaven is a working winery and vineyard located in the popular wine destination of Wairau Valley, Marlborough. This commercial site has expansive views out to the northern Richmond Ranges which form a stunning backdrop to the site. Also near the site is the braided Wairau River: an important natural feature of the local landscape.

The brief to Canopy for the landscape design from Whitehaven was to create a multifaceted design that enhanced biodiversity, embraced local horticultural plant species and related to the Whitehaven Vineyard brand and its legacy.

The simplicity and clarity of this striking commercial landscape design derives from a strong lineal language based on the patterns of the viticultural landscape. These are echoed in the architectural form designed by Blenheim architect Chris Nott. The result is a design where the architectural patterns flow into the landscape creating a strong sense of place. The existing site mound along Paul's Road has been repurposed to become a strong arrival feature which responds to the angular architectural features. Linear rows of Totara and linear gardens echo patterns the horticultural landscape in a contemporary response.

The landscape spaces responded to the requirement for areas that could be used by the workers whilst also catering for larger events; through carefully crafted spaces that celebrated the contemporary architecture, site history, local plant vernacular and the Whitehaven brand.