A growing science, technology and education centre

The Marlborough Research Centre’s objective is simple: to improve the long-term prospects and viability of the Marlborough primary sector by facilitating and co-funding local research and technology development.

‘‘We encourage and support the introduction of new and evolving technology and information to connect research and business,’’ says Chief Executive Gerald Hope, ‘‘collaboration is a big part of it. We act as facilitator between 15 groups across two campuses to build capability. To achieve that, high quality, modern facilities are essential.’’

After several years of planning and building new multi-milliondollar facilities that support innovation and spin off technology - the future is becoming a reality. The past year has seen physical building works commence on the Jerram Tocker Baron Architects designed New Zealand Wine Centre, expected to be officially opened in September.

It will provide a magnificent new addition to the Budge St campus and display what is possible through targeted Central Government investment in science and technology facilities.

The New Zealand Wine Centre will lead the way across the wine regions of New Zealand for collaborative, innovative and integrated science and technology development.

The years ahead look positively bright. In partnership with Plant & Food Research, planning is well advanced for an exciting project called the Experimental Future Vineyard (EFV).

Dr Damian Martin, Science Group Leader - Viticulture & Oenology, Plant & Food Research says, ‘‘this experimental infrastructure could become a world focal point for the integrated above and below ground study of vineyard production eco-systems.

‘‘The goal is to develop farreaching and sustainable solutions for current and future viticulture challenges - from climate change to labour shortages.’’

‘‘As a major New Zealand Wine

Centre initiative, the EFV will prepare the wine industry for a digital future as a hub for coinnovation, a learning resource for vocational education and as a demonstration and evaluation facility for technology developers’’.

NZ Dryland Forests is another flourishing project for which the MRC has provided annual grants and administration.

Project manager Paul Millen’s strong advocacy for establishing a new durable hardwood industry in NZ, culminated in him receiving the highest honour by the NZ Forestry Industry – being named Forester of the Year in 2021.

❚ Marlborough Research Centre, 85 Budge Street, Blenheim. Phone 03 577 2370, visit www.mrc.org. nz