Media Statement
For immediate Release
Wednesday 2 March 2006

Gauls Gall This Kiwi

The Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Select Committee needs to consider how Kiwi can be protected, says Gordon Copeland, United Future MP.

The Select Committee is today hearing submissions for the Geographical Indications (Wines and Spirits) Registration Bill. This bill will protect French Champagne and Cognac, Mexican Tequila, and Greek Ouzo. In the future it is hoped that the bill will protect Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay.

“But who is looking after our Kiwi?”

“There is no trademark or intellectual property rights protecting the kiwi. Internationally, nothing links kiwi with New Zealand. This is a national tragedy.”

“This case is most vividly illustrated by kiwi wine-makers who cannot sell their products in the European Union with the label “kiwi” because kiwi has been registered by a French wine-maker for his wine, Kiwi Cuvee.”

“Today I want the Select Committee to start asking how they can do their bit as good kiwis and protect our kiwi,” says Mr Copeland.

ENDS

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