Company – Birth and Growth

Started out in the industry on the end of a pair of secateurs (type of pruning shears).

Mack Pouwhare started contract pruning in 1998 and in 2000 won the Silver Secateurs - a competition developed to encourage a high standard and to recognise the skills of grapevine pruners.

Mack started the business, Grapeworx, in 2001 as a 'winter job'. It quickly grew to become an industry leader, supplying labour force to growers all over Marlborough – reaching up to the Wairau Valley township, down to the Awatere Valley, and out to Tua Marina.

Mack and Susy also wear a grower's hat, with a little over 30 hectares of Sauvignon grapes. This gives them with a unique perspective with understanding their client's requirements.

Mack is an industry leader, well known for his cheeky sense of humor, incredible hard work, and no nonsense approach to life.

Often found in the vineyards doing tractor work, when he is not off representing New Zealand in Clay Target Shooting.

With a background in administration for several government agencies, Susy supported the new business by running the books from their spare room at home.

Attending every free course she could at local NMIT, she learnt how to run and grow the admin side of the business.

It grew so fast that in 2005, they employed an accountant and part-time admin help. The office now boasts 3 full time administrators.

Susy makes sure the books are spot on, manages all labour accommodation, and helps with RSE Pastoral care. Susy is mum to about 250 people.

Qualified in marketing from Bangkok University. He came to New Zealand on holiday, loved the people and culture, and came back to work and live.

Grapeworx employed Moo as a casual labourer in 2007, he quickly grew his knowledge of the industry gaining Level 4 Viticulture and Grow Safe Chemical handling. His natural ability to lead shone brightly, and he made supervisor three years later.

In 2013, with the help of Mack and Susy, he gained New Zealand residency for himself and his growing family.

He became Manager in 2014, and has since been sharing his infectious cheeky nature, liaising with clients, coordinating staff, and working to recruit RSE staff annually. Moo also supports all RSE staff with pastoral care.

Joined the family business in 2018.

His duties include supervising the tractor drivers; managing and maintaining the tractor and vehicle fleet; and general engineering.

Jeff's background is in winery engineering and stainless steel fabrication. He has been a fitter, welder, and fabricator for 12+ years.

Mack and Susy's grandson (Jeffrey's son).

Joined Grapeworx after leaving school in 2016. He has quickly become an important part of the office administration.