“The Geographical Indications (Wine and Spirits) Registration Amendment Bill will be a significant advance for the New Zealand wine industry,” said New Zealand Winegrowers CEO, Philip Gregan. “Our ‘Geographical Indications’ – the names and places where our wines come from – are at the very heart of the New Zealand wine story and this Bill provides an additional level of protection for them.”

“The registration system established by the Bill will be world class, providing a solid platform for New Zealand wine producers to promote our wines and regions in international markets. We would like to thank the government for making this commitment to the long term future success and growth of the New Zealand wine industry.”

New Zealand Winegrowers said it will work closely with members and regional organisations to prepare and file registration applications. Applications will need to define regions as well as a quality, reputation, or other characteristic that is attributable to that place.

New Zealand wine exports are valued at $1.47 billion for the year to the end of September 2015. The industry is working towards a goal of $2 billion of exports in 2020.