Tohu Wines, the original Māori-owned wine label in New Zealand and around the world, celebrated its 20th anniversary last year.

“Our vision in founding a wine company was to have a platform to share our culture, story and values with the world,” said Paul Morgan, chairman, Wakatū Incorporation, which launched the wine label. “From the beginning we knew how important our brand and story were.”

Since 2002, Tohu Wines has grown its own grapes and, since 2012, crafted wine in its own winery.

“Through Tohu Wines we get to take kaupapa Māori to the world every day. We strive to work in ways that are kind to people and environment without compromising quality and integrity. We have a strong spiritual connection with the land and a responsibility to pass it on in good health to future generations,” said Rachel Taulelei, CEO, Kono, the food and beverage arm of Wakatū Incorporation.

“Over the last 20 years, we have created internationally acclaimed wines, crafting wine that encapsulates a place and time, and reflects the unique characteristics of our vineyards. In making our wine we are committed to upholding our deeply held values, which include rangatiratanga, manaakitanga and hihiritanga — excellence, kindness and innovation.”