While the 2009 John Manhire Award is a fitting recognition for one of the country’s organic pioneers, Gisborne winegrower James Millton refuses to accept the accolade alone. He has plans for the future that promise to make his achievements to date pale by comparison: the wholesale conversion of the nation’s wine industry to BioGro certification – as the most practical business strategy for that industry. On 5th of September 2012 James was invested at Government House and made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2012 Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Retro Organics has made its mark on the judges many a time. In March 2011 the Gore-based cheesemakers were awarded three medals at the Jersey World Conference Cheese Awards then just a few weeks later scooped another three medals at the National Cheese Awards.