Neill Culley - BSc, MBA

Neill began at The University of Auckland in 1984, enrolled in a Bachelor of Science, majoring in zoology and botany.

"Like many people back then, I fell into winemaking. I had every intention of becoming a marine biologist and only worked at a vineyard to help fund my studies.

"I was about to begin my Masters when my boss suggested I take a year out from study and try something different. So I went to Australia and wound up completing a postgraduate diploma in oenology (winemaking) at the University of Adelaide."

Returning to New Zealand, Neill began his career at Babich Wines first as assistant wine maker then marketing manager and finally Chief Winemaker.

During his time at Babich, Neill began his MBA, which he graduated with in 1991.

Neill spent 12 years at Babich and served as Chairman of the New Zealand Wine Exporters Body before establishing Cable Bay Vineyards with a number of business partners, including David Irving, former Area Director Heinz Wattie Australasia and currently Adjunct Professor of Enterprise and Management at the University.

After establishing Cable Bay Vineyards only 7 years ago, Neill is well on his way toward achieving his business goals. Cable Bay has vineyards on Waiheke Island and in Marlborough and his wines are gaining international recognition.

"I currently oversee all areas of the business, including marketing and company administration, so the skills I learnt through the MBA programme are invaluable," he says.

"The MBA has also helped me in areas I never envisaged. I built up a network of friends and associates through the programme who are people I still see and liaise with today.

My goal is to stay at the leading edge of New Zealand winemaking and run a successful international business. To do that you need to have the right people and expertise in a wide range of areas. My MBA has been a significant part of that."