New Zealand Wine

EXPO

New Zealand's annual wine exports have grown to more than NZD 2.17 billion. Approximately 90% of New Zealand's wine production is exported, reaching more than 100 countries worldwide.

TYPE

White wine accounts for 93% of New Zealand's wine exports, with Sauvignon Blanc representing 85% of total exports. Pinot Gris accounts for 4%, while Chardonnay represents 2%.

New Zealand's wine regions stretch over 1,600 kilometres, from the subtropical climate of Northland to Central Otago, home to some of the world's southernmost vineyards.

New Zealand's vineyards benefit from the moderating influence of a maritime climate, long sunshine hours, and cool nights shaped by ocean breezes. No vineyard in New Zealand is located more than 130 kilometres from the sea.

Most wine regions are situated along the eastern coasts of the North and South Islands, within the rain shadows of mountain ranges. Each region possesses distinctive soil and climatic conditions.

Within these diverse wine regions, individual subregions express their own unique characteristics. As a result, New Zealand wines are distinguished not only by their broader regional origins but also by the specific terroir and geographical identity of their subregions.

Sustainability is deeply embedded in New Zealand's wine industry. Today, 98% of the country's vineyard area is sustainability-certified, while an increasing number of producers are achieving organic certification or carbon-neutral status.

New Zealand winemakers strive to minimise their impact on the soil and environment. Through low-intervention winemaking techniques and regenerative agricultural practices, they work to protect soil health and biodiversity.

The industry is also a global leader in canopy management, stainless steel fermentation, and natural alcohol-reduction techniques, all designed to enhance flavour while reducing environmental impact.

Innovation and quality go hand in hand in New Zealand's wine industry.

New Zealand was one of the first countries to introduce screw caps for premium wines, and its producers continue to invest in research and development to respond to evolving consumer preferences.

From precision viticulture to grape varieties adapted to climate change, New Zealand's wine industry remains forward-looking and agile.

These efforts have also contributed to its international reputation. New Zealand consistently performs strongly in global wine competitions, earning numerous gold medals and awards across a wide range of wine styles.