As the hospitality industry continues to be affected by the global pandemic, The Shout NZ is dedicated to supporting Kiwi locals. Here, we explore New Zealand’s best spots to enjoy an ice-cold brew or crisp wine in the summer sun.
Auckland: Rooftop at QT
Perched on the sixth floor of QT Auckland, Rooftop at QT offers an elevated setting and peak drink and dine experience flowing from laid back afternoons to lavish late nights. With sweeping views of the harbour and the superyachts that call the marina home, you can also take in the cityscape panorama and feel like you’re a world away this summer. Designed by Nic Graham, Rooftop at QT’s quirky interiors are inspired by Auckland’s harbour and it boasts a world-class beverage programme, with 12 signature cocktails on rotation.
Signature summer drink: The RuRu – a refreshing and classic flavour combination of rhubarb, apple brandy, fennel gin and citrus.
Top summer food and drink pairing: The Bodrum Sour cocktail and lamb ribs.
Matakana: Sawmill
Comprised of a brewery and Smoko Room in a purpose-built shed surrounded by farmland and bush, Sawmill’s atmosphere is warm and surprisingly elegant for a factory! Located three kilometres outside Matakana, Sawmill is comfortable and casual with exceptional beer, thoughtful food and an epic sunny courtyard. It’s somewhere you can wear your sandy jandals and still get amazing hospitality and a cold brew.
Signature summer drink: A fresh cold Sawmill Pilsner made from all New Zealand hops and malts. Or a Gin and Keffir using gin from Reid + Reid in Martinborough and Raspberry Keffir (a probiotic fermented drink) from Wild Delicious in Matakana.
Top summer food and drink pairing: A cold beer and some tasty venison ribs.
Hahei: The Pour House
The coolest little beach brewery in the Coromandel, The Pour House sits right next door to the world-famous Cathedral Cove. With a relaxed, casual atmosphere, they welcome all ages and even well-behaved dogs. A great summer spot just five minutes’ walk to Hahei beach, all The Pour House’s beers are made on site – plus there’s even a house-made gin called The Coromandel Spirit. The Pour House is a real family business created using old fashion hard work and a passion for real beer.
Signature summer drink: Hahei Doctor APA.
Top summer food and drink pairing: The Hahei Doctor with pork ribs, chips and salad.
Wellington: St Johns Bar & Eatery
St Johns Bar & Eatery is housed in an historic 1930s art deco building in Wellington’s CBD. The only CBD venue and the only waterfront venue with an amazing grassy lawn, St Johns features a DJ booth and pop-up bars on the weekends and is the perfect place to enjoy the Kiwi summer. The team takes pride in celebrating great food and drink and has a commitment to quality and experience.
Signature summer drink: Frozen margaritas on the lawn.
Top summer food and drink pairing: Ceviche and a margarita is the go-to.
Christchurch: Smash Palace
A bus in a beer garden, Smash Palace is one of the best Christchurch bars to visit on a nice sunny day. It started as a temporary bar after the 2011 earthquakes, but was so popular that it became a permanent fixture. Part beer garden, part backyard garage and part historical record, Smash Palace is somewhere to enjoy the sunshine; somewhere with enough space for bigger groups to gather; somewhere to park bicycles; somewhere the beer is cold and the chips are hot.
Signature summer drink: Bodgie Beer- the house beer brewed especially for the customers at Smash Palace.
Top summer food and drink pairing: A cheeseburger and Bodgie Pale Ale on a warm summer’s afternoon.
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