The Story Behind the Name

The story of Staete Landt begins in 1642, when Dutch explorer Abel Tasman became the first European to sight New Zealand. Believing the land was connected to the great southern continent, he named it “Staete Landt” (pronounced “State Land”) in honour of the States General of the Dutch Republic.

More than 350 years later, that historic name found new life through Staete Landt Wines. Founded by Dutch-born winemaker Ruud Maasdam and his family, the brand reflected both their Dutch heritage and the journey that brought them to New Zealand. Inspired by Tasman’s original chart of New Zealand, the Staete Landt label incorporates elements of this historic map, a lasting symbol of exploration, craftsmanship and discovery.

Although the name was later changed to Nova Zeelandia, and eventually New Zealand, Tasman’s legacy lives on. Today, Staete Landt is proudly owned by the Joyce family as part of Marlborough Wine Ltd, continuing the pioneering spirit of the brand by crafting elegant, expressive wines that showcase the purity and character of New Zealand’s renowned wine regions.