Martinborough has lost one of its quiet pioneers.
Yesterday at 3:30pm, Mark Haythornthwaite passed away after a long illness, leaving behind a remarkable legacy woven into the soil, vines and spirit of this special place.
In 1991, Mark made a bold decision. Originally from South Africa, he left the corporate world to follow a long-held dream of owning a vineyard. With no formal winemaking background, just a deep love of good wine and an unshakeable belief in the land, he arrived in Martinborough and, in 1992, planted vines on what were then bare sheep paddocks.
What grew from that courageous leap of faith is now part of the fabric of our region.
Those once-empty paddocks became Haythornthwaite Wines — a thriving vineyard, award-winning wines, and a cellar door that welcomed locals and visitors alike. Mark’s favourite varieties, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and his much-loved flagship Pinot Noir, earned loyal followings and helped showcase Martinborough’s unique terroir to the world.
But Mark’s legacy extends beyond medals and vintages.He was part of a generation that believed in Martinborough before it was firmly established as a world-class wine destination. He helped shape the character of our wine community - grounded, generous, quietly ambitious. His work contributed to the reputation our region now proudly holds.
Alongside him every step of the way was his wife, Susan, who joined him in the vineyard journey, drawn by the romance of wine, the Wairarapa sunshine, and the joy of building something enduring together.
Mark is survived by Susan and his “surrogate” grandchild Aarya, and Kiwi "child" Santi who now carry forward the story he began more than three decades ago.
We know many in the Martinborough community have shared in this journey, through harvests, tastings, long conversations over a glass, and the simple pleasure of wine enjoyed with friends. Thank you for the aroha and support already shown to the Haythornthwaite whānau.
His legacy lives on in every row of vines, every vintage poured, and every sunset over the vineyard. Funeral details will be announced shortly.
With gratitude and remembrance,
The Haythornthwaite Wines Team
