The EIT Tairawhiti’s winery was turned into a rather exclusive restaurant for visiting wine writers, winemakers and judges, who were in Gisborne for the 2013 Regional Wine Awards.

In the very capable hands of the hospitality and catering students, the 24 diners were treated to some of the best wine and food the region has to offer.

“It’s so important that we have courses like this,” said Sacred Hill’s chief winemaker, Tony Bish. “Graduates need the scientific training to understand things, but they need that practical.”

And the industry was crying out for competent, qualified workers.

“We struggle to find enough new recruits for vintages.”

The timing of the EIT Tairawhiti course, which was strong on practical, allows graduates to work a vintage in the Northern or Southern Hemispheres.

“That really gets them thinking about the whole picture,” says Mr Bish. “There is such a shortage in New Zealand of well trained and qualified industry workers.”

EIT Tairawhiti campus manager says it was a stand-out day that underlined the importance of the facility to the community.

“It is fantastic to be able to deliver a combination of good food and wine out of such a valuable facility, showcasing our unique wine programme and involving fantastic fare provided by our catering and hospitality programmes and their students,” he said.