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 is developing a Workforce Development Plan to create activities to attract, retain, educate and evolve our industry workforce to be fit for a better wine world.
Young Viticulturist of the Year
Now in its 16th year, the Corteva New Zealand Young Viticulturist of the Year competition is a fantastic opportunity for viticulturists aged 30 years or under to start making names for themselves in the industry.
Young Winemaker of the Year
The Tonnellerie de Mercurey Young Winemaker of the Year competition is an opportunity for any young person, whether they're a cellar hand or a winemaker, to grow and advance their career.
Women in Wine NZ
Women in Wine NZ is a programme founded in 2017, supporting women to reach their full potential, step up in to leadership roles and encouraging businesses within the industry to assess their diversity and inclusion culture.