The Wine Business and Innovation postgraduate programmes at EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tair?whiti are specialised qualifications designed for students and professionals who want to develop expertise in wine business management, wine marketing, innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and global wine industry leadership.

These programmes combine wine industry knowledge with modern business, branding, export, tourism, sustainability, and innovation skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in New Zealand’s internationally respected wine sector.

The pathway includes:

• Postgraduate Certificate in Wine Business and Innovation (Level 8)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Wine Business and Innovation (Level 8)
• Master of Wine Business and Innovation (Level 9)

The programmes are suitable for:

• Wine industry professionals
• Viticulture and wine science graduates
• Business graduates entering the wine sector
• International students seeking specialised wine business education
• Entrepreneurs and future winery managers

These postgraduate qualifications focus on:

• Wine business management
• Wine marketing and branding
• Wine tourism
• Innovation and sustainability
• Global wine trade
• Strategic leadership
• Wine export and consumer behaviour

The programmes are highly industry-connected and designed to support New Zealand’s growing global wine industry. Students gain advanced business and innovation knowledge specifically tailored to the wine sector.

Why Study Wine Business and Innovation at EIT?

Study in a Leading Wine Region

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s premier wine-producing regions, offering:

• Access to wineries and vineyards
• Wine industry networking
• Real-world business exposure
• Industry collaboration opportunities

Unique Industry-Specific Business Qualification

Unlike traditional MBA programmes, this qualification focuses specifically on:

• Wine industry leadership
• Wine marketing
• Wine innovation
• Sustainability in wine production
• Global wine business strategies

Strong Career Development

Graduates develop expertise in:

• Wine brand management
• Export and international trade
• Wine tourism
• Business strategy
• Innovation management
• Sustainable wine operations

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The programmes focus on advanced wine business and innovation topics.

Main Study Areas

• Wine Marketing and Branding
• Wine Business Strategy
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Global Wine Markets
• Consumer Behaviour
• Wine Tourism
• Sustainability and Environmental Practices
• Digital Marketing for Wine Businesses
• Leadership and Management
• International Wine Trade
• Wine Supply Chain Management
• Strategic Planning
• Research and Applied Industry Projects

Master’s students may also complete:

• Advanced research projects
• Industry innovation research
• Applied business inquiry 

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programmes specialise in:

• Wine Business
• Wine Marketing
• Wine Tourism
• Innovation Management
• Sustainability
• Wine Entrepreneurship
• International Wine Trade
• Strategic Leadership

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in:

• Wineries
• Wine export businesses
• Wine tourism companies
• Beverage marketing firms
• Hospitality and tourism organisations
• Wine consulting companies
• International wine trade businesses

Possible Career Roles

• Wine Business Manager
• Wine Marketing Manager
• Export Manager
• Wine Tourism Coordinator
• Brand Strategist
• Business Development Manager
• Winery Operations Manager
• Sustainability Advisor
• Entrepreneur / Winery Owner

Programme Highlights

Key Advantages

• Specialised wine business qualification
• Study in New Zealand’s major wine region
• Flexible online learning options
• Strong wine industry connections
• Internationally focused curriculum
• Sustainability and innovation emphasis
• Career-focused postgraduate training
• Pathway from certificate to master’s degree

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Latest Updates

• EIT continues expanding global wine business education pathways
• Strong industry demand continues for graduates with combined wine and business expertise
• Flexible online postgraduate delivery remains a major focus

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying in New Zealand generally require:

• Valid student visa
• Offer of Place from EIT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient financial support
• Valid passport
• Health and travel insurance
• Medical certificates if required

Industry Insights

The global wine industry increasingly values graduates with both technical wine knowledge and strong business, innovation, sustainability, and branding skills. Industry professionals frequently highlight wine tourism, digital wine marketing, and sustainability as rapidly growing sectors internationally.