Matua winery sold to family business

The original Matua winery in Auckland has been bought by a family-owned business.

Sutton Group Holdings Lts has acquired the Waimauku winery where Matua claimed to have planted the first Sauvignon Blanc vines in New Zealand.

Sutton Group is a family-owned business with a 30 year history of engineering, packaging, food and beverage experience.

Family spokesman James Shortall said the business planned to reinvigorate the winery, expand the site's current production operations and explore future employment opportunities for existing Matua Auckland employees.

"The winery is rich in history and full of potential," Shortall said.

"We're looking forward to sharing more about our plans for bringing to life the winery we all know and love."

The deal, put together by Bayleys, will see vendors Treasury Wine Estate work with the Sutton Group throughout the transition phase.

The deal is a sentimental one for the Sutton family, who have a personal connection with the Waimauku winery and cellar door. As friends of the original owners, the Spence and Margan families, the Sutton's have many great memories of the winery and its famous Hunting Lodge Restaurant.