Business insights flow like fine wine

INSIGHTS: Craggy Range owner Terry Peabody (left) and Rob Fyfe, former chief executive of Air NZ.

A Who's Who of business gathered at Craggy Range's third annual Speaker Series lunch on Friday

Last year 180 attended the Giants Winery event in Havelock North and this year word of mouth meant a bigger marquee was needed for 250 dining among vines and listening to speakers between courses.

Icebreaker founder Jeremy Moon shared insights and dilemmas of his global Merino apparel business journey and veteran company director Michael Stiassny gave advice on governorship.

Craggy Range founder Terry Peabody, who has taken three companies public, gave opinions on the practice.

Former chief executive officer of Air NZ and Craggy Range strategic adviser Rob Fyfe gave perspectives and anecdotes from his business experiences.

In welcoming guests, Mr Peabody said 2014 was a wonderful year. Huge efforts building the brand, facilities and concentrating on quality had paid off.

Last year Craggy Range was named best New World Winery by influential US magazine Wine Enthusiast.

"It's a great award for us and its a great award for New Zealand," Mr Peabody said.

He said the 2013 vintage was a once-in-a-generation vintage.

Today at the Deep Purple Wine Club day the Family group of red wines from Gimblett Gravels and tastings would be available for June releases.

"You will be absolutely so proud that New Zealand can produce wines like this."