Meet some of the key staff within the Tantalus Estate family.
Meet our General Manager, Luke Parker! With two decades of experience in the winery and hospitality industries, Luke is an invaluable member of the Tantalus Estate leadership team. His background in Business Management and International Relations gives him a distinctive edge, fueling his innovative ideas and strategic vision. Luke is not just a leader; he’s known for his friendly and approachable demeanor, making it easy for everyone to collaborate and thrive. His commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and creativity is instrumental in driving Tantalus Estate’s success. We’re lucky to have him steering the ship!
Chris joined Tantalus Estate in 2013 after ten years as Viticulturist at another renowned island vineyard, Stonyridge. With a strong commitment to biodiversity and the property’s health, he was instrumental in achieving Sustainable Vineyard and Winery accreditations since the Estate’s early days. Chris manages all aspects of vineyard and estate operations, working closely with our Winemaker to develop the distinct Tantalus wine style. He’s also the Director of Island Wine, a successful tour company he runs with his wife, Kanae. Originally from the UK but raised in New Zealand, Chris has extensive experience in hospitality both locally and abroad, including eight years in Japan, where he contributed to the opening of ten successful venues in Kansai. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce in International Business and a Postgraduate Diploma in Wine Science.
Wine has always been in Gwilim’s blood. With his parents based near Chablis in France, he grew up amidst family gatherings filled with good food and fine wine. He fondly remembers his charismatic grandfather, who loved sharing his passion for wine and often described his Rhône favourites as “like little Jesus in velvet underpants!”
Gwilim’s New Zealand journey began in 2001 when he moved to Auckland to play rugby. He quickly fell in love with the country and later met his wife. After spending a few years selling Champagne in France and working with a French wine importer in New Zealand, he joined Tantalus in 2019. Gwilim considers it a privilege to be part of a team that combines humble ambition with meticulous attention to detail and is excited to help shape Tantalus’s story in the years ahead.
Born on the Atlantic coast of western France and raised in the French Alps, Axel Curtet-Latreille’s culinary style is shaped by a deep love for both the sea and the mountains. After honing his craft in Lyon’s luxury brasseries, fine dining restaurants, and French bistros for five years, Axel moved to Waiheke Island in 2017. His passion for foraging and working with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients reflects his commitment to sustainability. Having worked at Mudbrick for three years before joining Tantalus Estate in December 2020, Axel combines European tradition with a New Zealand twist to create innovative, regionally inspired dishes.
Alex brings a rich blend of Italian and Spanish heritage, global experience, and expertise in winemaking and brewing to his role. Raised in Argentina, he was immersed in diverse food cultures and iconic wines like Malbec, Rioja, and Chianti Classico. As a qualified food scientist and award-winning winemaker and brewer, Alex holds certifications in wine, microbiology, and advanced viticulture. His journey includes hands-on winemaking across France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Chile, and Argentina, as well as brewing experience in South America, the USA, and the UK. Since joining Tantalus in 2013, Alex has overseen the design and development of the winery and brewery, and today he leads the winemaking operation, along with our microbiology lab. His ongoing projects include creating unique products like brine-infused cheese, chocolates, and seasonal rose honey from our estate beehives. Guided by the motto, “vintage every autumn for grapes, vintage every week for grains,” Alex is also working toward the Master of Wine and Beer Judge Certification.
Meet Hannah Nandorfy, the dedicated Events Manager at Tantalus Estate. Hailing from Canada, she embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of hospitality, leaving her mark from Toronto to Sydney to Central Otago, before finding her professional home on the captivating Waiheke Island in 2019. Her passion for all things travel and hospitality has taken her to high-end establishments across the globe, shaping her perspective and enriching her expertise.
Since settling at Tantalus Estate, Hannah has become an integral part of the team, channeling her passion into organizing weddings and private functions. Her background in the wine industry, coupled with her attention to detail, ensures that each event is not just a gathering but a meticulously crafted experience. With a commitment to excellence and a love for curating memorable moments, Hannah continues to elevate the events at Tantalus Estate, creating a seamless blend of hospitality and the beauty of Waiheke Island.
Kenny Tahuri comes from a little village called Rangiahua/Frasertown, nestled in the hills of a small river and seaside township, Wairoa, Hawkes Bay, Ko Whenua Taurikura. Growing up with Manaakitanga and Whānau as the most important principles in life, he believes these values have truly shaped his illustrious 22-year career in the hospitality industry, with the past 10 years focused on the wine sector. Since joining Tantalus Estate over a year ago, Kenny has worn many hats, from vineyard to table, and believes that this Hospitality Operations role pays homage to his upbringing and is a perfect fit. When not at work planning or showcasing the best of Tantalus Estate’s Manaakitanga, he can be found with his large Whānau, eating and celebrating life, back in his hometown helping at one of his Marae, or planning a trip overseas with his family.
“He ao te rangi ka uhia ma te huruhuru te manu karere ai”
(as clouds adorn the sky, feathers enable the bird to fly).
Fabio studied hospitality at the age of 14, at his home in Italy. It was here he decided that his chosen career would be in fine dining and customer experience. Fabio has worked in many prestigious restaurants around the world including Michellin starred restaurant – The Ledbury in London and here in New Zealand for the highly innovative Chef Vaughan Mabee at Amisfield in Queenstown. Fabio arrived in NZ whilst working onboard a cruise ship and decided soon after to make New Zealand his home. After many successful years working at various vineyards around the Island – Poderi Crisci, and Mudbrick to name a few, he finally settled with us here at Tantalus, which he says is the perfect place to sharpen his skills with busy summer volumes and high quality service.
Linda’s journey in Waiheke’s wine industry began with her first vintage at Stonyridge in 1998, setting the stage for a dynamic career that blends vineyard expertise and hospitality. Her time managing Mudbrick Restaurant deepened her connection to the island’s thriving wine culture, which she later brought to life during nearly ten years as Sales, Marketing, and Cellar Manager at Passage Rock Wines. Joining the Tantalus team in November 2020, Linda brings her passion and seasoned experience to the Estate. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Archaeology and a Postgraduate Diploma in History—surprisingly unrelated, but perhaps hinting at her love for stories and discovery, much like the world of wine itself.
Jason’s love for hospitality began in his hometown of Cornwall, England, where dining out as a child, introduced him to the vibrant world of restaurants. It wasn’t just the food that captured his imagination but the lively mix of visitors, locals, and characters who brought them to life.
His passion led him to study hospitality and tourism, working across Australia before returning to the UK. A chance advertisement for New Zealand residency caught his eye one winter, and within three months, he was on Waiheke Island, starting a job at Mudbrick Vineyard in 2000.
Waiheke quickly became home. Its blend of seaside charm and a thriving tourism scene was perfect for Jason’s love of live music, beach days, and the friendships he’s built over decades. Though the island has grown, Jason remains a cherished and familiar face, welcoming guests with warmth and experience.
Orlando’s 15-year journey in hospitality began at a small café in Tirau and has flourished over the last eight years on Waiheke Island. Raised by parents who worked in restaurants, food and wine were part of his life from the very beginning—he was proudly carrying three plates by the age of eight.
Since moving to Waiheke, Orlando’s passion for wine has grown. Early days spent helping in vineyards and wineries led to earning his sommelier qualifications—and enjoying more than his fair share of incredible wines. Joining Tantalus has been a turning point, opening his eyes to the artistry of fine dining and reigniting his love for the alchemy of food, wine, and the stories shared around a table.
Sam comes to us from the UK. He’s spent 20 years fine-tuning his career as a beverage master, with a myriad of positions held across the globe.
Sam entered the competition circuit, not only competing himself but later judging cocktail competitions across the UK, Asia, Africa, Middle-East, Americas, Europe and Australasia. He’s featured in various films and TV shows including Netflix and on British television for his cocktail creations and also worked for a charity teaching hospitality skills to young adults in Uganda. Sam loves working at Tantalus as it’s a bartender’s dream! The opportunity to work closely with talented individuals, such as the Head winemaker, the Viticulturist, Head Brewer and Head Chef provide an incredible platform to expand and refine his beverage craft.
A born and bred Waiheke Island local, Shantala brings a unique blend of creativity, culinary expertise, and business acumen to the role of Marketing Manager at Tantalus Estate. With over seven years in the advertising and graphic design industry, Shantala has developed a keen eye for brand storytelling and visual communication.
Prior to joining Tantalus, Shantala spent 12 years as a professional superyacht Chef, honing precision and attention to detail in some of the world’s most luxurious settings. This global experience was followed by managing and owning a successful hospitality venue on Waiheke, further deepening her understanding of the industry.
At Tantalus, Shantala combines creative vision with a passion for exceptional guest experiences, ensuring the vineyard’s story is told with elegance and impact across all platforms.
Originally from England, Danielle made the move to New Zealand to chase her love of nature and the outdoors.
Danielle has a background in Human Rights law and brings with her a wealth of experience in legal compliance, operational management and hospitality. Danielle oversees the Estate’s operations, and fosters an inclusive workplace culture that supports both our talented team and the unique rhythms of vineyard life.
Brix joined us at Tantalus Estate at the very beginning, just a tiny pup who became a loyal companion and an irreplaceable member of the team. Her days were spent patrolling the vines, greeting guests with her signature enthusiasm, and keeping a watchful eye on the estate she called home. Brix’s presence brought warmth and joy to everyone she met, and her legacy continues to be felt in every corner of Tantalus. Brix sadly passed away in late 2024, but she remains a part of our story and our team forever.
