New Zealand’s oldest wine auction, the Hawke’s Bay Wine Auction, is set for its 32nd event this weekend. The auction has raised over $4.5 million for Cranford Hospice and aims to raise even more this year. Winemaker Tony Bish, who has been part of the event for over 25 years, said, “When you live in a community, you see the need for palliative care.”
Nearly 50 wineries from the region are donating special wines for the auction. Many are unique blends made just for this event. Bish mentioned that the auction offers “fantastic wines” that are rare and exclusive.
Auction manager Sam Kershaw highlighted some impressive collections this year, such as the complete Coleraine and Awatea verticals, which may not have been auctioned before. Kershaw noted the strong support from vineyards and buyers despite recent economic challenges and disasters like Cyclone Gabrielle.
Cranford Hospice provides care for about 1,000 people a year. Bish encouraged everyone to participate, saying that the auction is not just for corporations or wine collectors. “It’s easy to join in if you form a syndicate. Gather a group of friends, and it becomes affordable. You can take part in a great event and support a hospice,” he said.
