Sustainability at Wairau River
As a family making our living from the land, our decision-making has always been grounded in our responsibilities to both the environment and people. Recognising that traditional farming was not the best fit for our land was the first step towards growing grapes. From land to table, Rose Family Estate is committed to not just mitigating but positively impacting our environment and people. We know that to do this requires creative thinking, innovative solutions and action. It needs to be a way of life.​
Soil
Regular soil testing leads the decision making for the seed mix used inter-row in our vineyards.
Feeding the soil, with nitrogen providing plants, alleviating soil compaction with tap roots and flowering species to feed beneficial insects and bees are just some of the benefits of this practice. The tall cover provided aids moisture retention the soil and habitat.
Riparian planting
The 3000+ riparian plants and trees have been planted along our river boundaries and waterways. This is an ongoing project, where we increase the area each year and includes restoration of a wetland at our Hillock’s Road vineyard.
Riparian planting allows natural filtering of run off water, provides habitat for endemic species of birds, insects and water life, re-mediating and supporting the ecosystems.
