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Peter Babich, a giant of New Zealand’s wine industry and a figurehead of the Dalmatian families who established vineyards in West Auckland, has died. He was 92.

His death notice said he died peacefully in his sleep at home on February 2.

Son Peter, chief executive of Babich Wines, said he was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, and considered by many to be a giant in the New Zealand wine industry.

“Dad was a man of incredible vision, integrity, and passion for his family and craft, but it was his warm personality, tireless dedication, and genuine care for people that leaves the greatest legacy, both in our family and across the wine community. He will be deeply missed.”

Babich was born into a winemaking family on June 20, 1932, with his father Josip having founded Babich Wines in 1916. In 1949, at 17, he joined the family winery and over a 70-year career played a critical role in transforming the company into one of New Zealand’s leading wine producers.

Babich was born into West Auckland’s Dalmatian country, where there were more than 60 wineries owned by and run by Croatian families who brought the skills of growing grapes and making wine from their homeland.

Babich Wines was one of the names that would become familiar with Kiwi wine drinkers that included Selaks, Nobilo, Soljans, Delegat, Fistonich (Villa Maria), Yukich (Montana Wines) and Brajkovich (Kumeu River).

With an eye for innovation and a respect for tradition, Peter Babich helped establish Babich Wines as an internationally recognised brand, with the family’s wines now being exported to over 60 markets around the world, a family statement said.

Wine pioneer Peter Babich has died, aged 92.

Babich’s leadership and contributions to the wine sector were widely acknowledged - he was instrumental in establishing the wine export certification process which helped pave the way for the growth of New Zealand wine on the world stage, and expanded the company’s vineyards and production while maintaining quality.

Numerous industry accolades and leadership roles were bestowed on Babich - he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1989, a Fellow of the Wine Institute of New Zealand in 1995, and inducted into the New Zealand Wine Hall of Fame in 2015.

David Babich said his father advocated for sustainable viticulture and was a firm believer in fostering strong relationships within the local and international wine community.

“His vision and collaborative spirit helped lay the foundations for Babich Wines’ long-term success and future, along with that of New Zealand’s wine exports.”

Babich is survived by his wife, Lise Babich, his sons Joseph, David and Michael, his daughters-in-law Julie and Paula and grandchildren Peter, Luke, Annelise, Sophia and Amara.

- NZ Herald