Our People


We are a people with big hearts - our sense of openness and character is legend.
The same pioneering spirit and sense of determination that braved the elements to break the land is alive and well today.
We don’t stand on ceremony, but we are fiercely proud and passionate about our region.

Deidre Copeland – Artist

Deidre arrived in Central Otago just over six years ago, and is renowned for her epically scaled portraits which reflect not only the faces of her subject but also encapsulate her response to the surrounding Central Otago landscape. Trained in the fine arts, Deidre has a vision that can only be described as intense and individual.

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The Becker Family – Curling

Few families have shown such dedication to a sport over the generations as the Becker family of the Maniototo District. Curling is a passion in Central Otago, although it is little recognised elsewhere in the country. Participating in Pacific, World and Olympic championships, the Becker family has done more to promote the sport in New Zealand than any other.

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The Big Picture

The Big Picture is an innovative business concept that acts as an interface between tourists and the local wine industry. It is the brainchild of Phil and Cath Parker, who are keen to deliver 'spatial awareness of the bigger picture of wine'. The Big Picture aims to provide novices to experienced wine appreciators with a unique sensory experience of the area’s vineyards and vintages.

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Marnie Kelly – Touch Yarns

Marnie Kelly has spent most of the last two decades developing Touch Yarns into a New Zealand success story with markets in Australia, the U.K. and America.
Her pursuit of excellence and innovation in yarn design has helped the business grow over 20% in the past year. A recent move to the historic township of Clyde has lifted the profile of Touch Yarns even further.

Read more about Marnie Kelly and Touch Yarns….