Freshly picked
From urban laneways to the green valleys of the Wairarapa, Wellington’s breweries and distilleries are flush with innovation and history.
Ben Shewry’s affection for Wellington’s wine and brewing scene is keenly felt. In 2018 he embarked on a collaboration with the Garage Project and Attica to create Bliss, a craft brew with branding inspired by artist Ross Murray’s own ’80s backyard barbecue memories. For Shewry, Bliss was a great opportunity not only to innovate but also to share Garage Project’s pioneering approach with Australians. Calling on a range of artists and illustrators, the Project’s brews and wines are as recognisable for their branding as for their award-winning flavours. Their creators, meanwhile, who were among Wellington’s original craft brewers, still work from a converted disused garage in the hillside suburb of Te Aro. For
Shewry, Garage Project is symbolic of the flush of taprooms, micro-breweries and distilleries that are revolutionising Wellington’s dining scene.
Reid + Reid
Brothers Nick and Chris Reid have perfected a range of gins based on native New Zealand botanicals, using experience gained in their years in the winemaking game. Produced in a shed on their parents’ property, it’s well worth a try. Their vermouth is on its game too. reidandreid.co.nz
Parrotdog
Just metres from Lyall Bay, Parrotdog brewery is setting new benchmarks for Wellington craft brewers – and worth seeking out. Stop in for bistro food and 15 beers on tap or drop into the Nice takeway shop for complimentary tastings and takeaways. parrotdog.co.nz
Lighthouse Gin
Set in the picturesque Martinborough district (just over an hour’s drive from Wellington) is a tiny distillery with New Zealand’s first female gin maker, Rachel Hall, at the helm. Lighthouse Gin reflects both the area’s entrepreneurial spirit and Hall’s hard work, right down to the local
Yen Ben lemons used in distilling – which
Hall zests herself. Taste it in Martinborough village at Wine Bank. lighthousegin.co.nz
Wharekauhau Escape
The first thing that strikes you about Wharekauhau Country Estate is the sheer privacy and remote location of the Palliser Bay property. Make no mistake, this is no ordinary lodge. While its unpretentious styling and welcoming staff make you feel like you’re staying at a sprawling family estate, the service and outstanding food and wine confirm Wharekauhau’s status as one of New Zealand’s outstanding luxury lodges. Executive Chef Marc Soper teams up with local producers to offer seasonal delicacies including Big Glory Bay salmon, juicy citrus and even local kelp, and draws on the lodge’s own kitchen garden for the freshest asparagus, beets and greens. Wharekauhau offers guests a brilliant taste of the region’s bountiful produce. wharekauhau.co.nz