Launch of WaiparaValleyNZ

A number of Waipara Valley wineries and other businesses have created a collaborative group to market & promote their region 50 minutes north of Christchurch in North Canterbury, New Zealand.

This group, called WaiparaValleyNZ, which includes over 15 wineries and other businesses is supported and resourced by Waipara Valley Winegrowers and the Hurunui Tourism Board.

Chair of Waipara Valley Winegrowers, Gwyn Williams “I am excited to see the level of support for this initiative by the participating wineries. The Waipara Valley produces grapes and wine of consistently high quality and this message needs to be communicated to our markets”. 

Hurunui Tourism Board Chair Graeme Abbot said “The Waipara Valley forms an important emerging tourism and wine destination within the Hurunui. We are delighted to be contributing in a partnership with the wine industry to its future”. 

They have appointed Angela Clifford, formerly of Greystone Wines, to manage the collaborative project.

The announcement comes twelve months after the first significant earthquake hit Canterbury on September 4th 2010. The wine region has experienced significant difficulties including a major drop in tourism, and the disintegration of their closest retail and restaurant market in Christchurch. Many of the wine community also live in Christchurch and experienced personal loss & injury during February’s quake.

“The development of the group is testament to the tenacity & spirit of this community” says Angela Clifford. “It’s a wonderful place to live, we feel fortunate to be out of harm’s way, and I truly believe Waipara Valley is one of the most exciting wine & food regions in the country. I’m looking forward to contributing in a positive way to its future”.