Kumeu River: White Burgundy in Kiwi Clothing

Melba Brajkovich, MNZM

Melba has been the backbone and strength behind the Brajkovich Family at Kumeu River Wines since 1958. Originally very much in the background as Mate’s wife and partner in the business, Melba has always kept a watchful eye over the winery, especially when Mate was away on Wine Industry business in his various roles on the Executive Committee of the Wine Institute of New Zealand, including Chairman from 1982-1985. Mate’s contribution to the New Zealand wine sector was recognised through his Fellowship of the Wine Institute of NZ in 1991, and the award of OBE in 1985. Melba was the...