Greer Vineyard Services has a rich history dating back to 1994, when Jim and Debbie Greer turned their passion for vineyards into a dedicated service company. Over the years, our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has remained unwavering.
Our team of experienced professionals understands the intricacies of vineyard management and works diligently to ensure every vineyard we service thrives. We believe in building long-term partnerships based on trust, integrity, and mutual success.
Our History
Jim Greer is from a Marlborough family and was raised in Renwick for most of his life. His journey in the vineyard industry began in 1978 when he applied for a job at the Montana Nursery, working under the guidance of Allan Scott.
In 1980, Jim saw an opportunity to move to a new vineyard and, again under Allan’s mentorship, he joined the Stoneleigh Corbans vineyard in Rapaura. Jim worked from the ground up, performing all tasks required to develop a new vineyard until it was fully producing. Through hard work and a willingness to learn, Jim was rewarded with the position of senior vineyard supervisor of Moorlands and Stoneleigh vineyards.
In 1982, Debs family moved to Blenheim from Auckland after her father, Pete Masters, was given the opportunity by Corbans Wines to become grower liaison and second-in-command of a new and exciting Marlborough wine region. Pete had worked with Corbans since 1973 and alongside some iconic figures in the West Auckland wine industry, making the move to Marlborough a fitting next step for the family.
The Journey to Greer Vineyard Services Ltd
Jim and Debbie met on the Corbans vineyards and married in 1986, living on all three Corbans vineyard homes over the years. In 1989, they purchased their first small vineyard in Renwick, eventually progressing to a larger block. During this time, they had two sons: Josh in 1991 and Brad in 1994. In 1994, Nautilus Wines purchased their vineyard and Jim was approached to manage it, handling all the work involved. Simultaneously, Matua Wines (Bill and Ross Spence) were purchasing land in the Rapaura area, known then as Shingle Peak.
Drawing on all that Jim had learned over the years, the Greers took a chance on themselves and started Greer Vineyard Services Ltd. Thirty years on, they are now based in Rapaura, where they have both their home vineyard and their contracting business.
OUR TEAM
Brad Greer
Manager
Brad Greer is the first port of call at Greer Vineyard Services. With a lifelong interest in machinery and viticulture, it’s safe to say that viticulture is in his DNA. Brad has extensive experience, having worked overseas and locally in Marlborough with various companies. He has driven harvesters, seeders, and overseen staff, gaining hands-on experience in every facet of vineyard operations—from manual labour and pruning to wire work and machinery.
Brad’s motto is, “If you cannot do the job, how do you expect your employees and clients to have confidence in what you are doing and give guidance?” He has had the opportunity to draw from the knowledge of family members and other iconic figures in the industry who have over 50 years of experience. Brad is never afraid to seek answers if he doesn’t have them and will diligently do his homework to ensure he delivers quality work and value for money.
Because he has learned on the job, Brad is practical, a straight shooter, forward-thinking, and happy to muck in and get the job done to a high standard. His dedication to maintaining the highest standards ensures that Greer Vineyard Services continues to provide exceptional service to their clients.
Photo: Brad (left) and Jim Greer
Connor
Mechanic
Hi there! I’m Connor, a seasoned mechanic with a decade of hands-on experience in keeping things running smoothly. My specialty lies in John Deere tractors, vineyard and farming equipment and light automotive vehicles. With qualifications as both a light automotive mechanic and a heavy ag mechanic, I bring a comprehensive skill set to every job.
Fully kitted out to be a mobile mechanic, which allows me to get out into the Marlborough countryside and address mechanical needs directly on farms and vineyards. It’s a rewarding part of my job to bring my expertise to where it’s needed most.
When I’m not working on machinery, you’ll find me enjoying the great outdoors—whether that’s fishing, diving, or simply soaking up time with my family and friends.
Looking forward to helping you with your mechanical needs!