The 2025 season gleamed with silver linings, says Wilco Lam, winemaker at Oraterra and Chair of Wairarapa Winegrowers.

Matawhero Wines owner Kirsten Searle celebrated the pioneering winery’s 50th anniversary this year. Kirsten, who sits on the board of Gisborne Winegrowers, and has been part of the region’s wine industry since 2002, says some growers made tough decisions in 2025.

United States

Canada's liquor monopolies might be convinced that sustainability is the "DNA" of New Zealand wine, but they want to see proof of certification on every label.

The 11th International Cool Climate Wine Symposium (ICCWS) is on in Ōtautahi Christchurch from January 26-28, 2026. 

ProWine Shanghai

Cool Climate Symposium

New Zealand Winegrowers Biosecurity Advisor Jim Herdman is retiring at the end of 2025, after six years helping develop NZW's member-facing biosecurity programme, putting together resources and guides, and delivering high-quality workshops and advice.

The end of the year is fast approaching, so here are some thoughts on a few of the significant developments during 2025 to wrap things up. Times are tough, of course, but there are some positive stories to think about, as well as the challenges.

Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.