Our People
Andrew Blampied
Operations Director
After growing up in Gisborne and spending most of his time
on the land, it was a natural progression for Andrew to take over management of
the viticulture and winemaking operations at Lake Road. It has always been more
than just a job – it’s a way of life.
Acknowledging the achievements of those that have come
before him, Andrew is dedicated to continually improving winegrowing methods in
order to support the production of premium quality wines.
Steve Blampied
Sales Director
Steve took a different route to being a part of the Lake Road legacy, and is responsible for establishing the brand as the innovative and independent wine business that it is today.
Leading the sales in both domestic and international markets, he enjoys building ongoing relationships with our valued customers and going
above and beyond to exceed their expectations. Steve is based in Gisborne and travels regularly, meeting with customers in the various markets serviced by Lake Road.
Tim Adams
Winemaker
Initially trained as a chef, Tim quickly discovered that he was fascinated by wine and its infinite differences. A few years later when backpacking around the world, he visited many of the great wine regions including Europe, USA and Australia, and he knew he had found his calling.
Now into his 25th year working in winemaking, Tim is still just as passionate about wine, and everything that goes into it - from producing grapes of the highest quality to the process of making premium wine.
Amber Nikora
Key Account Manager
Amber is a born and raised Gisborne girl, and after 15 years away travelling the world, she returned home to raise her family in their own little slice of paradise.
Her role at Lake Road Wines is built on the importance of communication – working with our customers to understand their needs and ensure we deliver on those with every order. Depending on the season, her favourite varietals are Syrah and Pinot Gris, but any wine is best enjoyed with friends and family - accompanied by a delicious antipasto platter!
Nickie Bezuidenhout
Production Planner and Administrator
In 2020, Nickie and her family emigrated from South Africa to New Zealand, where she was thrilled to become part of the wine industry in sunny Gisborne.
Nickie has spent over 20 years refining her skills in the logistics field. She finds the intricacies of the winemaking process incredibly fulfilling, and has set herself the challenge that each bottle reflects our unwavering dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
Her favourite wine varietal depends on the season and the occasion, but nothing quite beats the refreshing taste of a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in summer!
Amber Silvester
Brand and Marketing Manager
Always a passionate storyteller, Amber spent time overseas working in communication and marketing roles in Australia and the UK.
Amber then spent nine years as part of the New Zealand wine industry in communication roles, before moving to be part of the team at Lake Road Wines in 2024. Amber’s drive is to clearly communicate Lake Road Wine’s story, values, and of course wonderful wines, to the target audiences in our key markets.
Out of office is a little further afield for Amber, who is currently based in Japan with her partner, and working remotely for different times of the year.