79% of people working in the New Zealand wine industry want to continue doing so.*
Our industry is built on the commitment, passion and dedication of our people. From wine labels to local communities, industry employers have a responsibility to uphold financial, social and ecological standards to continue being an industry of choice.
Wine businesses are looking beyond the baseline of employment relations, labour management and health and safety, to educating employees to think and behave more sustainably. Many employers encourage team members to devise and develop new sustainability initiatives to help reduce waste and costs, as well as increase efficiency and good environmental outcomes.
It’s increasingly common to see vineyards and wineries working with neighbours, local government and community groups on collaborative sustainable activities, and engaging staff in those efforts.
The can-do attitude of our pioneering winemakers is present in our people today, as we innovate and adapt to protect our environment. As one of the youngest wine industries in the world, we’re great at rolling up our sleeves and giving things a go.
57% of our people have worked in the industry for 10+ years.*
*NZW Our People Survey, Diversity Works, 2019
Workforce Development Plan
NZW’s People activities are captured in the Sustainable Workforce Action Plan 2024-2026, which builds on the previous Plan from 2022-2024. The purpose of the plan is that the New Zealand grape and wine industry, service providers and supporting sectors (such as educators, local government, labour contractors and accommodation providers) will work together to ensure:
- Grape growers and wineries have access to the supply of skilled labour they need, at the time they need it, to grow grapes and make wine in a way that supports and adds to the industry’s international reputation for making premium quality wine.
- The wine industry provides attractive seasonal roles and career options for skilled workers.
- Workers are respected, valued and competitively rewarded.
Young Viticulturist of the Year
Established in 2006, the New Zealand Young Viticulturist of the Year programme celebrates 20 years in 2025. It is a fantastic opportunity for young viticulturists to start making a name for themselves. Many previous contestants are today senior leaders in our industry.
Young Winemaker of the Year
The Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year programme, launched in 2015, is an opportunity for any young person working in wine production, including cellar hands, laboratory and winemaking roles, to grow and advance their career.
NZ Women in Wine
NZ Women in Wine, founded in 2017, supports women to reach their full potential, consider leadership, and encourages businesses within the industry to assess their diversity and inclusion culture.