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NZ Winegrowers signs research agreement with two universities
New Zealand Winegrowers has signed a research partnership with the University of Auckland and Lincoln University, resolving to support the future of New Zealand’s wine industry.
New Zealand Flag wooden sign with winery background
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the three organisations, including the newly established New Zealand Winegroers Research Centre (NZWRC), sets a framework for future collaboration with the two universities.
“NZWRC looks forward to collaborating with the University of Auckland and Lincoln University, giving us the opportunity to support education and engage the next generation of New Zealand researchers with the New Zealand wine industry, through the provision of learning, educational support and opportunities,” said NZWRC CEO MJ Loza.
Based in Marlborough, the NZWRC will have a national focus, and global reach, providing world-leading research and innovation for commercial grape and wine production.
The University of Auckland views the MoU as an opportunity to build on a long history of co-operation and association with New Zealand Winegrowers, said dean of science, Professor John Hosking.
“We share a goal of excellent science and research to significantly contribute to the growth of this important export industry and working more closely together is the best way to realise that goal.”
Dr Roland Harrison, head of wine, food and molecular sciences department at Lincoln University, said the partnership was an acknowledgement of the increasing importance of wine as a major export commodity for New Zealand.
“We are keen to ensure that Lincoln’s long-standing research expertise in the field helps all parties involved deliver innovative research and education solutions to benefit the whole sector,” he added.
The NZWRC will receive up to NZ$12.5m in funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment over the next four years and is run as a limited liability company, owned by New Zealand Winegrowers Inc.