New Zealand wineries checking damage after earthquake

Wineries in Marlborough and Canterbury in New Zealand have been assessing the damage caused by a 7.5 magnitude earthquake and several reported aftershocks.

New Zealand earthquake: Wineries assessing damage

Yealands Family Wines, in Marlborough, said that ‘while there is some damage at the winery, the winery building withstood the conditions well, as it was designed to do.

‘It remains closed for safety reasons while the damage is being assessed and cleaned.’

The cellar door will also remain closed for the next few days, and visitors are advised to call in advance before coming to the winery.

The epicentre of the earthquake was northeast of Christchurch, and the South Island has had hundreds of tremors since the initial earthquake.

At least two people have died in the earthquake, and the aftershocks have left some people without power and water.

Mt. Beautiful Winery, in North Canterbury, said on Twitter ‘Thankfully no injuries incurred to our team; only minimal damages to our tank farm, barrel room & office.’

Yealands also said on its Twitter account that it was ‘grateful for your kind words and support. Look forward to raising a glass with you all very soon!’

Philip Gregan, CEO of New Zealand Winegrowers, said in a statement that winemakers in Marlborough and Canterbury appeared to all be safe.

‘Wineries are now very much in assessment and clean up mode. There have been plenty of reports of broken bottles and damaged tanks which is what you would expect in an earthquake of this size, but most wineries are reporting any damage as minor.’

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