This article outlines the origin of these changes and what Wine Standards Management Plan (WSMP) holders need to do practically to ensure they’re meeting the latest requirements.
You must update your WSMP by 1 July 2023
In 2021 the Government undertook a broad regulatory redesign project with the aim of consolidating various legislation (including the Wine Act 2003), clarifying requirements and removing duplication. The result is that previous Wine Regulations were replaced, the wine notices were revised and consolidated, and stronger traceability and recall requirements were incorporated. To reflect these changes a new NZW Code of Practice template has been developed.
NZW, together with a working group of industry representatives and MPI, have worked on a new template version of the Code for members to use if they wish. Notable changes in the Code are summarised as follows:
- Definitions within the code have been added or updated to ensure consistency with the existing regulations.
- Export compliance has been incorporated into the document.
- Updated guidance notes sit within sections to assist users with their interpretation of rules.
- Requirements for self-assessment and recall (including mock recall procedures) have been substantially updated in line with new requirements.
Two notable changes include:
New requirement: Water testing rules
Terminology within water testing rules has changed, now self-supplied water must be tested within one week of any adverse event that may affect water quality. This rule will be applied one week from the 'time that you can access your property'.
New Requirement: Recall procedures
The WSMP requires a simulated recall to be conducted every year and the effectiveness of the recall measures. This provides assurance that adequate systems are in place to trace and manage product recall incidents. We understand this will be a new process for many small to medium operators and continue to engage with MPI on what additional support can be provided, including the possibility of an industry-wide simulation that meets these verification requirements.
What next?
By 1 July 2023 holders of registered WSMP will need to:
- Move to the pre-approved New Zealand Winegrowers Code of Practice, or
- Move to MPI's integrated WSMP model, or
- Update their existing custome WSMP to meet the new requirements.
No registration or fee is required and holders will be verified against the new WSMP at the same time they normally would.
Additional Information
We understand that process changes can be challenging when juggling the competing demands of winemaking, and are working to ensure members are well placed for this transition. To date, NZW have held several webinars with members and verifiers to communicate these changes and seek feedback.
We encourage you to contact our friendly NZW Advocacy team if you have outstanding queries (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or check with your verifier. Further information, including the NZW template, is available online. nzwine.com/members/advocacy
