Entries open for NZ International Wine Show 2026

New Zealand’s largest wine judging competition is back for 2026 and entries are now open.

Formed in 2005, the New Zealand International Wine Show is in its 22nd year. More than 1500 entries were judged at last year’s event.

Entries for the 2026 Show are open until September 4, with samples required by September 11.

Judging will take place over three days from Tuesday 22nd September and many of the country’s most experienced senior wine judges will participate.

NZIWS Convenor, Kingsley Wood, says the senior judges involve a number of leading winemakers and many key industry personnel. Most of the senior judges have each been involved in major wine competitions for one, two or three decades.

Medal results will be made public on September 28 and the Awards Event will be held in Auckland on October 16, where Gold and Double Gold medal wines will be open for tasting and all 21 Trophies will be announced – including Champion Wine and Champion Winemaker.

W: nziws.co.nz