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Step 1: Apply a WSMP code of practice and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) to your winery

MPI has developed WSMP Code of Practice and HACCP guidelines in collaboration with industry to make this easier for you.

For grape winemakers

Grape wine: Wine standards management plan (WSMP) Code of Practice [PDF, 614 KB]

Grape wine: Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) guidelines [PDF, 161 KB]

For fruit wine or vegetable wine (includes cider and perry) and mead makers

Fruit wine, cider, and mead: Wine standards management plan (WSMP) code of practice [PDF, 271 KB]

Fruit wine, cider, and mead: Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) guidelines [PDF, 131 KB]

If you follow an approved code of practice, you will be able to meet the requirements for winemaking under the Wine Act 2003.

If you choose not to follow an approved code of practice, you will need to develop your own WSMP. You will then need to get your WSMP independently evaluated to ensure your procedures meet WSMP requirements.

For winemakers who also sell food

Winemakers who make other beverages, including beer or spirits, or make or sell food will need a food safety plan. You can use our pre-evaluated food safety template for winemakers.

Food safety template for winemakers [PDF, 1.4 MB]

Step 2: Choose and confirm your WSMP verifier

You need to confirm your chosen recognised agency and verifier when you submit your WSMP documents for registration. You do this by including a letter from the recognised agency your verifier belongs to, confirming they will do verification functions.

You do not need to get your WSMP verified before you register, but you do need to provide information about who your verifier is when you submit your application.

Agencies recognised to verify wine standards management plans (WSMPs)

Step 3: Complete a WSMP required parts document and registration form

You need to complete and sign 2 forms – an outline (required parts) and a registration form.

The outline identifies the winemaking steps you undertake, whether you are following an approved code of practice, the WSMP contact person, and other legal requirements. This will be returned to you once your WSMP is registered with MPI.

Wine standards management plan outline: Grape wine [PDF, 238 KB]

Wine standards management plan outline: Fruit wine, cider and mead [PDF, 20 KB]

Application form WA4 – Registration of wine standards management plan [PDF, 333 KB]

Step 4: Send us your WSMP documents

To register your WSMP, send (by email or the address on the form) the registration fee and the following 4 documents to MPI:

  • WSMP registration form (WA4)
  • WSMP outline (required parts) document
  • A site plan (the area and boundaries that the WSMP applies to)
  • A letter from your verifier's recognised agency confirming that they will verify your WSMP at all sites where winemaking occurs (including packaging).

If you choose not to follow an approved code of practice, you will also need to submit your own WSMP and the independent evaluation report.

Step 5: Wait to receive your notice of WSMP registration

When your WSMP has been registered, you will receive a notice of registration from MPI.

Once your registration is confirmed, you may start making wine.

Step 6: Have your WSMP verified

You need to arrange for your first WSMP verification within 6 months of registration, or before any wine made under your WSMP is exported using your WSMP registration number.

The date of your initial verification will become the anniversary date. Future verifications must be completed prior to your anniversary date. Your anniversary date will stay the same, provided you do not bring the date forward more than 30 days, in which case it may be reset.

If you are not making wine for export, you may qualify for reduced verification frequency, subject to your verifier's recommendation.

Who to contact

If you have questions about WSMPs, email info@mpi.govt.nz

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