Beer festivals are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand, and for good reason. There’s nothing quite like the taste, atmosphere and camaraderie that comes from attending one. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or a casual beer lover, there’s something sure to excite at each festival. From sampling the latest craft brews to entertainment, here are some of the hottest beer festivals to attend in New Zealand.
Beervana
Beervana is one of the most popular annual beer festivals in New Zealand. It’s held in the capital city of Wellington, and is considered the ‘flagship’ of New Zealand beer festivals. At Beervana, attendees can experience the best of the country’s burgeoning craft beer scene. There is a wide selection of beer and cider to choose from, with more than 100 breweries represented. Beervana also features live entertainment, food trucks and educational events that explore the history and making of beer.
The Great Kiwi Beer Festival
The Great Kiwi Beer Festival is an annual event held in Auckland that celebrates the best of New Zealand’s craft beer and cider. With more than 140 unique beers and ciders on offer, it’s an ideal opportunity for beer lovers to sample some of the local flavours. The festival also includes a selection of entertainment, including music and comedy acts, as well as live demonstrations from award-winning brewers.
Marlborough Craft Beer and Food Festival
The Marlborough Craft Beer and Food Festival is a popular event in the heart of the Marlborough region. This festival celebrates the best of the region’s craft beers and ciders, as well as offering a selection of food vendors and entertainment. The festival’s main attraction is the tasting room, where attendees can sample the finest of the region’s beers. The event also includes talks from award-winning brewers, live music, and a selection of food trucks.
Benefits of Attending a Beer Festival
Beer festivals offer an ideal opportunity to sample a wide selection of craft beers and ciders from across New Zealand. Here are some of the added benefits of attending beer festivals:
- Affordable: Many beer festivals offer affordable entry fees, making it easier for beer lovers to experience the best of New Zealand’s brewing scene.
- Educational: Many beer festivals offer educational talks and demonstrations from award-winning brewers, giving attendees the opportunity to learn about the craft of brewing.
Tips for Attending Beer Festivals
To make the most of your beer festival experience, here are some useful tips to bear in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to research the festival beforehand and plan which beers you’d like to sample. If possible, try to get a taste of as many beers as you can.
- Bring Cash: Many beer festivals will accept cash only, so make sure to bring enough for all your beer purchases.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s beer festivals offer an ideal opportunity to experience the best of the country’s craft beer and cider offerings. From Beervana to The Great Kiwi Beer Festival, there’s something to excite beer lovers of all kinds. Make sure to plan ahead and come prepared to make the most of your experience.