New Zealand wine export earnings shot up by more than 30% in 2006.

According to industry body New Zealand Winegrowers, exports topped NZ$611m, more than double the export earnings from two and a half years ago.

Chris Yorke, global marketing director of New Zealand Winegrowers said, ‘The wine industry is on track to achieve export earnings in excess of NZ$1bn by 2010’

He also said he was pleased at the performance of secondary export markets such as Canada (up 60%), Denmark (up 51%), and Ireland (up 41%),

‘For the first time, exports to our second-tier markets topped NZ$100m for the year.’

The core markets of the UK, US, and Australia also showed significant year-on-year growth.

Sauvignon Blanc prevailed as the major export variety with 25% increase on last year but Pinot Noir established itself in second place with 41% growth.

Written by Sophie Montagne

Sophie Montagne
Sophie Montagne
Decanter, Journalist, Editor & Adventurer

Sophie Montagne is an adventurer and inspirational speaker based in the UK. She works for Polar Performance alongside fellow adventurer Sandy Hennis, together they completed the record-breaking Ice Maiden expedition in 2018. Formerly, she worked as a freelance journalist and editor, during which time she contributed to The Times, Country Life, Tatler, Good Housekeeping, Horse &Hound, Polo Times and Decanter.