Organic-wine objective closer
WEED OUT: A Vinetech contractor demonstrating organic weed control methods using a pre-1950s under-vine weeder at an organic field-day in Central Otago.
Central Otago winegrowers are making strides to becoming certified organic.
More than 20 vineyards have signed up to the Central Organic Winegrowers programme since it was launched in June.
Programme co-ordinator John Callaghan said the programme included field-days, seminars, workshops and a website forum to teach winegrowers how to become organic.
Central Otago and national experts from the wine and agriculture industries were teaching new practices in areas such as soil management, composting, pests and disease.
"The programme is important to ensure the quality and soil health of the region for future years.
"As well as being a great marketing tool for our wines in an increasingly competitive market, organic techniques can reduce vineyards' (costs) in the medium to long term," Mr Callaghan said.
It took three years to become organic, before the certification process could begin. The programme was offered to all Central Otago Winegrowers Association members on a voluntary basis.
Funding from Organics Aotearoa New Zealand had enabled the project to start up and develop.
The programme would be a pilot that could be replicated in other winegrowing regions throughout the country, Mr Callaghan said.
It aimed to be an inspiration to the wider New Zealand viticulture industry.