As vineyards evolve and expand, land use often changes over time. However, past land practices can leave a lasting legacy in the soil, sometimes in the form of contaminants that may affect vine health, grape quality, or even pose risks to human health. We strongly recommend working with an experienced environmental consultant to identify and manage these risks effectively.
Whether you're establishing a new block or converting land for viticulture, it's important to understand what’s beneath the surface. Soil contamination can result from previous agricultural, industrial, or residential activities, and may include:
These substances can persist in the soil for decades, potentially impacting vine performance, soil biology, and long-term sustainability.
Testing requirements vary depending on the land’s history and intended use. The Ministry for the Environment provides detailed guidance on soil contaminant thresholds and testing protocols for different site types. We recommend reviewing their resources to understand what applies to your vineyard.
At Hill Labs, we offer a range of accredited soil contaminant tests to help winegrowers assess and manage soil quality. However, we do not carry out soil sampling ourselves. To ensure accurate and compliant sampling, we strongly advise working with a qualified environmental consultant.
Speak to the team to learn more Download the Analysis Request form
What our customers have to say
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Accreditations
As a New Zealand accredited laboratory by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ), Hill Labs' commitment to quality is tantamount to our overall operating philosophy. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work.
