Reefton Distilling Co. has appointed Pic's Leader Lachlan Boyle as CEO for the company's most crucial stage of growth.
After nine extraordinary years building one of New Zealand’s most celebrated premium spirits companies, Patsy Bass has announced a planned leadership transition at Reefton Distilling Co.
“After years of investment and global Awards by their Little Biddy Gin, and with world-class whisky stocks ready to commercialise from 2026, now is the moment to bring on-board a renowned senior NZ Executive as CEO,” said Bass.
Shortly after the company’s most significant milestone, the release of its first single malt whisky, Moonlight Creek ‘Pioneer’, marking the beginning of the company’s next phase of growth, Lachlan Boyle will join the company as CEO on 11 May.
Boyle brings extensive commercial and industry experience to the role. As CFO at Pics Peanut Butter, he has helped guide the company through strong national growth, and his earlier tenure at Lion provided deep expertise in premium alcohol brands and large-scale distribution.
“Boyle is an outstanding leader and the right person to guide Reefton Distilling Co. through its next phase,” Bass said.
“Strengthening our commercial capability is a natural and strategic move.”
Boyle acknowledged Patsy and the team for what they’ve built.
“Creating a premium spirits business of this calibre from the West Coast takes vision, grit and long-term commitment. The foundations here are strong, great brands, a talented team and real momentum,” said Boyle.
“I’m joining at an exciting inflexion point, with Moonlight Creek ‘Pioneer’ marking the start of an important new chapter. My focus is straightforward: build on the work already done, strengthen our commercial capability, and ensure these much-loved brands continue to grow sustainably and profitably.”
Boyle said he was also looking forward to spending time in Reefton and becoming part of the local community.
“This business is deeply connected to its place and people, that’s a competitive advantage we must protect as we scale. I see significant opportunity ahead, and I’m excited to lead the team into the next phase of growth.”
Bass will transition into the role of Founder and General Manager Marketing, while remaining a key leader, brand architect and the public face of the company. Under Bass’s leadership, Little Biddy Gin became an internationally award-winning and iconic New Zealand brand, swiftly becoming the number two premium gin nationally (a position it has maintained, Neilsen) and attracting many thousands of visitors to Reefton and the region.
“Building this distillery has been one of the proudest chapters of my life,” Bass said.
“Not just for the international awards or growth, but for what it has meant for our community, creating jobs, upskilling local young people, and attracting thousands of visitors. We’ve proven that world-class spirits can be crafted on the West Coast of New Zealand.”
Chair Shane Edmond acknowledged Bass’s extraordinary contribution, saying her relentless commitment and inspiring innovation created a business many believed was impossible. The Board looks forward to continuing to work closely with Bass in her new role and welcomes Lachlan as CEO.
With the launch of Moonlight Creek Whisky imminent and a strengthened leadership structure in place, Reefton Distilling Co. enters 2026 poised for its most ambitious chapter yet.
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