The stars have truly aligned during Matariki for TUKU Māori Winemaker’s Collective, who have been named Kāuta Producer of the Year at the prestigious Tohunga Tūmau dinner — a standout celebration of Māori cuisine, hospitality, and indigenous excellence.

 

This award is more than a trophy — it’s a powerful recognition of TUKU’s commitment to premium winemaking grounded in tikanga Māori, sustainability, and whānau. As the world’s first Māori winemakers collective, TUKU brings together a group of proud, whānau-owned wine companies:

 

🍇Te Pā Family Vineyards
🍇 Tiki Wines & Vineyards
🍇 Steve Bird Wines
🍇 Kuru Kuru Wines / Tarras Vineyards

🍇 Jeff Sinnott, viticultural consultant

 

These producers represent a blend of deep-rooted iwi heritage, passion for the land, and the power of collaboration.

“We are deeply honoured to receive the Kāuta Producer of the Year Award. To be recognised by our peers, in celebration of our kai and culture, means everything.” — TUKU Collective

 

Royce McKean, of Tiki Wines & Vineyards, echoed the sentiment:

“Tohunga Tūmau is a powerful celebration of indigenous excellence… Recognition like this affirms the values that bind us — whakapapa, kaitiakitanga, and manaakitanga — and reminds us our greatest achievements come through collective strength.”

 

Formed just over five years ago, TUKU Collective continues to redefine what wine can mean — not just in the glass, but in story, place, and purpose. This award is a well-deserved moment of celebration, and a reflection of the incredible momentum Māori wine is gaining both here in Aotearoa and on the global stage.

 

I’m proud to support and celebrate the kaupapa of TUKU — and I can’t wait to see where this rōpū (group) goes next.

 

Find out more about Tuku Collective.