Displaying items by tag: Philip Gregan

When Philip Gregan joined New Zealand's wine industry in July 1983, he was wondering what he'd like to do for a career.

NZW Chief Executive Officer Philip Gregan has been awarded a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by leading international publication The Drinks Business, recognising his significant contribution to the global wine industry.

OPINION: This is my last article as Chief Executive, so I thought I’d take the opportunity to talk about three recurring issues which I have seen over the years, and which are almost certain to be issues in the future.

Under pressure wine growers say the appointment of a new chief executive will bring a fresh perspective, renewed focus, and a clear, united vision for the industry.

OPINION: 2020 unleashed Covid-19, and in 2021 we saw the smallest vintage in the past decade – for many wineries, tanks were largely dry by the time vintage ‘22 came along.

Trade is important to our industry, whether it’s because 90% of our wine sales are in international markets, because of the international tourists who spend money at our cellar doors, or because of the equipment we source from overseas to operate our wineries and vineyards.

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.

When Philip Gregan stepped into the New Zealand wine industry in 1983, it was awash with Müller Thurgau but rich with potential.

The new Global Workforce Seasonal Visa will provide longer term certainty for wineries, says NZW Chief Executive Philip Gregan.

Over the past three years or so, the New Zealand Winegrowers Board has consulted with members on proposals to reform NZW with the simple goal of ensuring the future organisation is fit for purpose.