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Officers from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have been out visiting Mahurangi farms, vineyards and orchards today to check they are complying with Covid-19 requirements.
Matakana Estate winemaker Richard Robson said he was surprised and impressed to receive a visit this morning.
“I thought we were too small a business for anyone to take notice or show up,” he said. “I didn’t think there would be officers driving round and checking, so I was impressed by that.”
The MPI officer checked numbers of staff and that standard operating procedures were in place for hygiene and distancing. She said she was also visiting farms, orchards, packhouses and other food facilities.
Winemaking is a primary food and beverage industry and therefore categorised as an essential service. The sector is currently in the middle of its annual grape harvest.
