When it comes to winter and a bit of competition, the national psyche turns to Super 15 and the All Blacks.
But for seven young viticulturists in Hawke's Bay there are much more important things on their minds as they strive to become the best at their game in the region - with the ultimate aim of national honours later in the year.
Step one for the vineyard set is the regional Markhams Young Viticulturist of the Year competition at Mission Estate Winery on June 22.
Entrants, who must be under the age of 30, face theory and practical theory and practical tests in all aspects of viticulture.
The "horti-sports" contest has contestants pit themselves against each other and the clock in eight events, and in the evening, they change out of their overalls into their suits and continue the competition and awards dinner at Mission Estate.
There they will compete in a quick-fire general knowledge quiz and present a speech on a topic revealed to them only a few days earlier.
A wine options challenge will kick off the dinner, and as always, dinner guests will be able to compete.
Contestants are Mike Saunders from Villa Maria, Caleb Dennis and Tyler McComb from Craggy Range, Johnny Latrobe from Sacred Hill, Nick Otto from Delegat's, Clearview's Luke Cornwell and Brayden Crosby from Martinborough's Borthwick Estate.
It is one of three regional competitions, and the winner, along with victors from the Marlborough and Central Otago, will compete for the national Markhams Young Viticulturist of the Year title in Blenheim on August 22.
The winner of that contest will then compete alongside representatives from other sectors for the title of national Young Horticulturist of the Year in November.