Chris Gambitsis is the founder and director of Lake Chalice wines, which is one of New Zealand's last privately owned wine companies. He lives in Papamoa in a renovated beach house.
I have lived here seven years. When I bought it, it was a typical old 1940s Papamoa beach bach. Ihave renovated most of it myself. I painted the outside weatherboard black (Bethells Beach colour). To me, this makes it look more architectural with a classic feel. I like the way it brings out the greenery of the plants in the garden, along with the fresh colours of spring and summer.
This room is my main living area. With my job, as owner of Lake Chalice wines, I travel a lot throughout New Zealand and internationally. So when I am at home I like to relax with my music. It's a great way to kick back and unwind after many hours of travel. I enjoy playing the guitar and the drums. I used to be in a rock 'n' roll band in Wellington a number of years ago. Now I just play for enjoyment. Maybe one day I'll get into a band again but making wine is a tad easier.
I do like to invite some mates round and we play some of the old tunes, the wine usually helps with the voice box. I love to cook in my own home and there is always a pan on heat, wine open and friends on the leaner telling stories. Although I do go to a lot of restaurants for business, I love my time at home in the kitchen.
The art on the wall is by Keri Nevard and Mark Warbrick, both very talented NZ artists. Style wise, I love Italian. The table is from Italy and is hand-blown glass with a leather border. The sofas are Italian leather with cushions by Ralph Lauren. The possum throw I found in Queenstown. The Buddha is from Bali - he sends off a great peaceful energy into the room and completes the space.
