Heath Miiler, Pask, Hawke's Bay
HEATH MILLER is a 26-year-old Assistant Manager at Pask Vineyard in Hawke’s Bay. He began his viticulture career in 2021 in a part-time vineyard role, where he discovered his passion for the industry. Since then, Heath has completed Level 4 studies and is continuing to build his skills with the goal of becoming a vineyard manager in the future. What he enjoys most about viticulture is the variety of work across the seasons and the new challenges each year brings. Outside of work, Heath stays busy playing rugby, spending time with his dog, and travelling. This is his third time entering the competition, and he is looking forward to pushing himself further and continuing to grow as a viticulturalist.
Alex Coombs, Craggy Range, Wairarapa
ALEX COOMBS, 21 is aspiring to grow his knowledge within the ever growing industry he currently has three years of hands-on experience in viticulture, including two years in New Zealand's Martinborough region and one year in Australia's Margaret River. After being able to work in various vineyards such as Schubert wines, Xanadu and now Craggy Range! He is now starting to develop a good skill set in vineyards and grape cultivation across varied climates. This is the third attempt at the Young Viticulturist of the Year competition, and i is looking for to it as always.
Kris Godsall, Cloudy Bay, Marlborough
KRISTOPHER GODSALL,, 24, Assistant Vineyard Manager at Cloudy Bay Vineyards. What began as childhood curiosity watching Marlborough's tractors soon evolved into a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of vine and environment. This interest was ignited during college and culminated in a Lincoln University Bachelor degree of Viticulture and Oenology. Now, he meticulously assists in cultivating high-quality fruit at Cloudy Bay Vineyards, ensuring every vine contributes to their renowned reputation. For Kris, each challenge, whether in the vineyard or the competition, propels him closer to his dream of managing his own land. Beyond the vineyard rows, he finds balance coaching young rowers and immersing himself in Marlborough's great outdoors.
Joshua Irving, Lincoln University, North Canterbury
JOSHUA IRVING is a 28-year-old Bachelor of Viticulture & Oenology (Honours) student at Lincoln University. With a background in hospitality, his passion for the wine industry was sparked when he attended his first wine masterclass. He has vineyard experience in North Canterbury, and has recently worked as a Viticultural Technician for Bragato Research Institute in their Sauvignon Blanc 2.0 vineyard. He hopes to successfully complete his dissertation, and in the future, contribute to research-driven advancements in New Zealand’s wine industry.
Braxton Benseman, Mt. Difficulty, Central Otago
BRAXTON BENSEMAN is an irrigation tech for Mount Difficulty, Bannockburn. His career started as a machine operator at Man o’ War Waiheke Island, in search of a career change from engineering. He quickly fell in love with the industry and started a certificate in winegrowing fruit production.
After finishing his studies he decided to move down south to learn more about cool climate challenges. His favourite tasks are pruning and trellis maintenance.