Exemptions for wine labellers and wine storage businesses
If your business only labels wine bottles and packaging, you are exempt from the requirement to operate under a registered WSMP. Information about the exemption is in clause 17 of the Wine Regulations 2021.
Wine Regulations 2021, Clause 17 – NZ Legislation
Wine storage businesses are exempted if they are solely engaged in storing wine during a period that:
- starts after the wine has been bottled, and
- ends before the wine undergoes any further winemaking process.
Information about the exemption is in clause 18 of the Wine Regulations 2021.
Wine Regulations 2021, Clause 18 – NZ Legislation
Small winemakers exempted from having a WSMP
Some winemakers do not have to register a WSMP. To be eligible for a small winemaker exemption, you must meet all the following criteria:
- You must make less than 20,000 litres of wine over 2 years.
- You must notify the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) of the dates of that 2-year period.
- Your wine must not be sold for export from New Zealand.
To apply for an exemption, complete this online form.
Small winemaker exemption notification form (WA3)
Once you notify MPI, you will appear on a public register.
Register of small winemakers exempt from having a WSMP
About exemptions
- If you don't currently have a registered WSMP, you must apply for the exemption before you make any wine.
- If you have a registered WSMP, you must apply for the exemption before you surrender your registration.
- Exemptions are valid for 2 years from the date of exemption. Before this period expires, you must either notify MPI of your intention to renew it, or register a WSMP.
Information about exemptions is in clause 19 of the Wine Regulations 2021 (NZ Legislation)
If you do not need to register a WSMP, you still need to follow requirements under the Wine Act 2003.
Random audits ensure compliance
To ensure compliance to these exemptions, MPI does random audits of exempt winemakers.
Who to contact
If you have questions about wine standards management plans, email wine.rules@mpi.govt.nz
