In a custom-designed building resembling a high-security prison, Jeff Poole guards millions of dollars of wine belonging to some of Auckland's wealthiest drinkers.
The founder of the Fine Wine Delivery Company has spent several hundred thousand dollars building the ultimate storage facility for wine lovers who do not want to -
or cannot - leave their precious bottles in the cellar at home.
From upwards of about $200 a month, customers buy their own "cellar" space in the temperature and humidity-controlled environment. A computer helps to maintain optimal wine-storing conditions: 14C and 73 per cent humidity.
Access is via swipe card and double locks on the individual cellar doors.
Discreet security cameras record the movements of clients, who are free to pick a bottle whenever they like, and can make use of a lounge and kitchen to taste wine with friends.
One cellar holds wine worth about $300,000 but confidentiality - part of the service - prevents Mr Poole from revealing the owner.
Most of the cellars - which can store between 600 and several thousand bottles - have been rented since the service started this year.
The strong interest means Mr Poole is considering expanding the facility in another part of the building, which is also home to the company's retail business.
He says the concept appeals to wine-lovers who may not have suitable storage at home, particularly apartment-dwellers or executives who shift a lot as part of their work.
Wine appreciation at this level will always remain the realm of the serious collector or the super-rich connoisseur, but businesses such as Mr Poole's are also benefiting from growing interest in fine wine as the New Zealand palate becomes more sophisticated.
The average price paid for a bottle of wine at the supermarket is $13 and rising. Less than 20 per cent of sales are wines over $15, but it is the fastest-growing category.
Mr Poole's customers lead the way: they spend an average of $25 a bottle.
