Wine Marlborough Limited Annual Report 2024

From the General Manager

MARCUS PICKENS

Our role is to support members’ interests and build the reputation of the Marlborough wine region, whether the region is thriving or facing challenges. Our small team has worked hard over the past year to achieve this.

Each year we use an annual plan based on the board’s strategic review and this year are focusing on four key areas: Communication, People, Community, and Natural Resources. Each area has priority goals set by the board, along with additional objectives from the team.

Key projects include enhancing our regional branding, reviewing Winepress Magazine, and improving our communications through a new NZ Winegrowers CRM. We are also developing an engagement plan for members and building partnerships with iwi. Water and labour are significant focus areas, with several projects addressing these issues.

Being based in Marlborough and on the MRC Campus at Te Pokapu Wina o Aotearoa, New Zealand Wine Centre, is a significant advantage. This site continues to blossom with entities like Plant and Food, BRI, NMIT and the recently opened Te Whenua Tupu, The Living Lab, bringing members and important visitors together.

Collaboration with partners has led to successful projects, such as the Wine Harvest Guidelines for Transporting Grapes with Ia Ara Transporting New Zealand, resulting in record low grape spills and accidents this season. An RSE introductory session with NZEE and a welcome campaign with Welcoming Communities are just two examples of work we do to maintain our social license.

WinePRO was a successful project co-designed and delivered with support from a steering group and Marlborough District Council. Our other events, like the Marlborough Wine Show and Young Winemaker and Young Viticulturist events, continue to showcase Marlborough wines and celebrate talent. Special thanks to Tonnellerie de Mercury for their decade-long support and to Loren Coffey for leading our events. Loren’s dedication, flair, and meticulous care have been instrumental in ensuring the success of all our events.

We deeply appreciate our industry partners and sponsors, who help make our activities exceptional. Our newsletter boasts a high open rate, and our brand work is highly regarded. Our website serves as a valuable resource, with all marketing and communications expertly curated by Sarah Linklater, whose talent and dedication are invaluable.

We farewelled Nicci Armour and welcomed Ruth Berry to the advocacy role. Ruth has been a great addition, supporting our members since joining in June. We also had a change in the editorial role for Winepress, with Sophie Preece stepping aside for Bev Doole who we welcome to the team.

A heartfelt thank you to all our team members for their hard work and dedication. Your efforts are the backbone of our success.

Thank you to everyone involved that supports our regional association and provides feedback to help us support you.