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The symposium, held at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre and hosted by the New Zealand Society for Viticulture & Oenology, takes place in leading cool-climate wine regions around the world.
Hosted in New Zealand for the third time, the symposium brought together global academic and industry experts to share insights on viticulture, sustainability, innovation and market trends shaping cool climate wine regions. The event provided an opportunity to strengthen international connections and showcase the expertise within Aotearoa’s wine sector.
Stewart was invited to present his research: Evaluating cultural botrytis control: Effectiveness of machine shaking and pulsed air leaf removal.
“There were some really thoughtful questions around both the methodology and the practical applications of our research,” he says. “It was encouraging to see genuine engagement from both researchers and industry representatives.”
Stewart says attending the symposium was a valuable professional development opportunity and reinforced the importance of staying connected to global research and industry conversations.
“It was inspiring to be part of such a forward-thinking event. There’s a real focus internationally on sustainability, climate resilience and adapting to change - all highly relevant to our region.”
With many international delegates already in New Zealand for the symposium, several took the opportunity to visit the New Zealand Wine Centre (NZWC) campus in Marlborough. Home to NMIT’s Viticulture and Winemaking programmes, the campus brings together key industry partners including Plant & Food Research and the Bragato Research Institute.
Visitors were given a tour of the specialised facilities and training environments that support the development of the next generation of viticulture and wine professionals. Delegates visiting the campus included representatives from Argentina, Australia, Spain, the United States and Austria.
As part of the visit, NMIT hosted a ‘Research Snapshot’ session with academics from the United States and also welcomed Dr Markus Eitle from IMC Krems University in Austria through an exchange programme. Dr Eitle delivered guest lectures for NMIT students and spent time engaging with staff and local industry.
Stewart says hosting international researchers and educators was a highlight of the week.
“It was a great opportunity to showcase the work happening here in Marlborough and to highlight the strength of our programmes and our connections with the wine industry,” he says.
