WinePro New Zealand 2026 Returns to Blenheim with Immersive Conference and 100+ Exhibitors
Building on the success of its inaugural event, WinePro New Zealand returns this winter with “a refreshed and more immersive experience”, say organisers.
“We are at the end of the day a community and in this industry together by and large for the same reasons,” says Brendon van der Gulik.
“You can’t know what you don’t know, so talking through problems, pressures and potential solutions is really important to provoke thought and hopefully instigate change. This is how the industry evolves.”
Hydralada was at the inaugural WinePro in 2024, and is returning to the trade show and conference event this June, seeing it as an opportunity to talk about “new and exciting technologies” and to network with all levels of industry, discussing innovations, trends and challenges, Brendon says.
“It’s also quite neat having all industry players in one place to drive discussions and thought that only this environment creates.”
WinePro will be held in Blenheim from 23-25 June, with a showcase of wine-related products and services, as well as a conference arm, organised by Wine Marlborough, exploring themes of The Producer, The Innovator, The Seller, and The Drinker.
Attendees will hear from experts in vines, wines, research and the market, but can also learn from other sectors, including Zespri.
Brendon says there’s pressure on suppliers to ensure they adapt to market pressures and provide innovative products that drive efficiency.
“Delivering a consistent and reliable product to optimise quality has always been important, and even more so in the current climate.”
He’s also seeing customers wanting to take more control, and reduce operating costs.
“If something doesn’t present a clear ROI then it’s not going to happen.”
The face-to-face opportunities of trade events like WinePro “simply can’t be beat”, Brendon says.
“Any time we can meet face-to-face is vital to ensuring strong relationships - it’s that simple.”
