According to the latest annual report from New Zealand Winegrowers (NZW), export volumes climbed by 8%, with export value reaching NZ$2.108bn (£1.0bn). The result is the industry's second-highest June-year total on record, and New Zealand wine continued to outperform the wider wine category in several key markets.
At the same time, the 2026 harvest was significantly smaller. Vintage 2026 produced around 440,000 tonnes of grapes, 15% less than the previous year. NZW said the reduction is bringing production more closely into line with market demand. The industry has been dealing with weaker demand and changing consumer habits in several markets, prompting growers and wineries to adjust their production and business strategies.
NZW chair Fabian Yukich said: "This has been a challenging year across the global wine industry, but New Zealand wine continues to show remarkable resilience." He added that businesses in the sector are making adjustments and that this year's progress gives confidence the industry is "moving towards a more balanced footing".
Exports account for about 90% of New Zealand's wine sales. The report showed robust performance in several key markets, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and China. Shipments to China rose by 72% over the period, while exports to South Korea increased by 20%, underlining strong performance in Asia.
NZW also highlighted the signing of the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement as a longer-term opportunity, as the deal allows for gradual tariff reductions on New Zealand wine.
NZW chief executive Anishka Jelicich, who took up the role in July, said the organisation is entering a new phase under its recently adopted strategy. "Our new strategy has a clear purpose: to elevate and sustain the New Zealand wine industry by empowering our members," she said. The strategy will focus on providing growers and wineries with information, advocacy and practical support.
