Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
24 seconds ago
EIT Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science graduate and valedictorian Anna Kelland has been named the 2025 Young Viticulturist of the Year.
Anna, who works as a Viticulture Technician for Constellation Brands in Marlborough, took out the prestigious national title after winning the Marlborough regional competition for the second year in a row.
“I’m very proud to receive the title, and to represent the success of the organisers and past winners whose efforts have kept this competition running for 20 years,” the 24-year-old said.
EIT Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science graduate and valedictorian Anna Kelland has been named the 2025 Young Viticulturist of the Year. Photo/ Smoke Photo and Video (https://smoke.co.nz/)
The national final was held at Greystone in Waipara in August, where regional winners from across the country were tested in a full day of practical and theoretical modules, including trellising, irrigation, machinery, pest and disease management, and an interview.
Finalists also delivered speeches at the New Zealand Wine Business Forum, reflecting on the past 20 years of the industry and looking to its future.
“It was really challenging this year. The sponsors and module runners were really testing us, but that made it all the more rewarding.”
This was her second appearance at the national final, after placing runner-up in 2024.
“After coming runner-up last year, there was only one way I could improve,” she said.
Anna completed the concurrent Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science at EIT in 2022 and was named one of two valedictorians at the 2023 graduation ceremony.
During her studies she also received several scholarships, including an EIT Year 13 Scholarship, a Bragato Trust Study Grant, and the Lawson Robinson Hawke’s Bay A&P Society Scholarship at the Napier Port Primary Sector Awards.
She said the knowledge and experience gained through her degree continue to influence her work.
“The lecturers at EIT were an amazing support while I was studying, and I use so much of what I learned there in my everyday work.”
Sue Blackmore, Head of School, Viticulture and Wine Science, said: “The school of Viticulture and Wine Science congratulates Anna on her achievement and wish her well for her future in the wine industry. Well done Anna!’
