Hey there ... So the fiance and I decided on NZ for our honeymoon for two weeks in November/December. We've come up with a rough outline of where we'll be and I want to get some BA takes on the places Ive found and see if there are any other recommendations. Our cities that well be staying in are Auckland, Nelson, Christchurch, and Queenstown. We wont have a car in Auckland, but will while we are on the south island. Hallertau and Brothers Beer seem like the best spots in Auckland ... As for Nelson, how is Hop Federation and is it worth the drive outside the city? Havent found much online for Queenstown or Christchurch, but dont really know where to start. Let me know! Thanks!
My wife and I did our honeymoon in NZ this past December. First off, you're going to have a great time. It's beautiful. I can't speak to Nelson or Christchurch and we only spent a small amount of time in Auckland. Queenstown is a fantastic city, but not much of a craft beer scene that we could find. Our favorite brewery was Garage Project, but they're in Wellington. Try to get some of their beers, though, if you can find them. I know their cans make it to Auckland liquor stores. Also, Tuatara Brewing (also Wellington) has really cool bottles you can find on shelves. You'll understand when you see them. Other than that, congrats and have fun!
Google SoBA , they have a website with info, in queenstown, the emersons bar the dux delux, smiths beer house and atlas craft all good and bettys liquor stores Be sure to drink the pils and lagers there as many of them are killer
If the weather's nice, it's worth a drive out there, as there is nice sightseeing over the Takaka Range and Abel Tasman National Park. Hop Federation has a small tasting room and store at their premises just past Motueka. They'll waive the tasting fee if you purchase some beers from the store. On the way back to Nelson, you can stop at Sprig & Fern and taste their beers as well. In Christchurch, the Beer Library looks interesting: http://www.thebeerlibrary.co.nz/ Besides tap beers, I recommend bottled/canned beers from Garage Project, Emerson's, Tuatara (especially "Nui"), Panhead and Liberty Brewing (Auckland). The sour beers from Moa are also worth trying.
The Beer Library looks killer. What are growler laws like in NZ? Will they fill regardless of whats on it? Was thinking about bringing a couple empties and just leaving them there before we go home.
