The Allan’s river terrace Rapaura Road property was purchased in late 1990 and the vineyard was planted with the end wine blends in mind.  Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc were planted in 1994 and 1995. 

Huia also purchased another 16 hectares of bare land on the south side of the Wairau Valley with 9 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris in production and another 7 that has just been recently planted.  The soil is a loam layer over clay. The new plantings are Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and Riesling.  Grapes are sourced from these home vineyards and a small group of dedicated growers from specific sites around the Wairau valley. 

Different soil profiles, rainfall patterns and orientation of vineyards are some important factors in choosing the variety most suited to that location.  Each site gives the grapes a range of flavours that show in the wines.

The viticultural techniques applied across all vineyards aim to maximise grape quality in every vintage.  Particular attention is paid to controlling yields along with canopy management to expose fruit to the sun and provide ripe, healthy grapes.  Huia uses these techniques to optimise the natural balance between sugar, acid and all the flavours.  This creates a delicious degree of balance, texture and palate length.

To ensure New Zealand stays clean and green for future generations, Huia has become a member of the New Zealand Sustainable Winegrowers.  And both the winery and the vineyards have received the Sustainable Accreditation.