About us

Mark and Wendy spent many years traveling before settling on the Peninsula. The name kokopu comes from the native fish which once inhabited the stream flowing through the farm.

They also are involved with their restaurant” Vangionis Trattoria and Bar”, in Akaroa which is run by Steve their son, who is sometimes the chef and sometimes the maître d’.

Mark and Steve make the chorizo, bresaola and smoked salmon for the restaurant. Many of the vegetables and herbs are grown in the paddock at the top of the hill next to Mark’s vineyard.

Fergus, their Jack-Frost dog will greet you with exuberance and Carrie the cat may be found relaxing in the garden.

Our private garden

Relax in the private garden area which is planted with established trees, roses, rhododendrons and feijoas. The sound of the creek provides a splendid accompaniment to the bellbirds. Our farm connects with other walks in the valley and on the last day of the Banks Peninsula track you can walk straight to Kokopu Estate from Woodills Track.

Stone fruit orchard

In summer visit our small stone fruit orchard. We grow apricots, cherrys, pears, apples, and plums, and you are welcome to pick and sample the fruit.