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Friday, 09 October 2026 13:25

Marlborough Wine & Food Festival Put on Hold

Written by  Staff Reporters
Photo Credit: Richard Briggs Photo Credit: Richard Briggs

Putting the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival on hold was a tough decision, given the festival's long history in the region, says Wine Marlborough General Manager Marcus Pickens.

"We are proud of the successful event we have built and grateful to the people, businesses and community groups who have helped make it possible."

A challenging events climate and the substantial investment required to deliver the event in its current format meant it was "no longer the best fit with the organisation's wider responsibilities", Marcus said in an announcement in August.

"As a small member-focused organisation working in the best interests of Marlborough's wine companies and grape growers, we have a responsibility to consider how we best use our time, energy and investment."

The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival was launched by pioneering winegrowers in 1985, when Marlborough had just four wine companies.

Wine Marlborough Board Chair Tracy Johnston says the decision was not taken lightly.

"We recognise the important role the Marlborough Wine & Food Festival has played in bringing people together and its legacy is important to our industry. However, it is our responsibility to act in the best interests of our members and ensure Marlborough continues to be recognised as the home of the world's most distinctive and valued Sauvignon Blanc."

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