Adventure brief
Craft Brewery Tour
Discover Wellington’s top craft breweries on a guided tour with Zozo Travel Limited. Sample innovative local brews and dive into New Zealand’s vibrant beer culture across three unique locations.
Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is fast earning a reputation far beyond politics and arts—it’s a burgeoning craft beer destination powered by passionate brewers and unique local flavors. Zozo Travel Limited has carved out an engaging way to experience this dynamic scene with their Wellington Craft Brewery Tour, visiting three standout breweries that spotlight the region’s best brews and brewing techniques. The 4-hour journey is designed for beer lovers who want more than just a sip; it’s a deep dive into New Zealand's craft beer culture while moving in comfort between locations.
The tour visits an iconic brewery in downtown Wellington famed for its innovation and community vibe, a hidden gem tucked away in Lower Hutt that holds a cult following, and finally Brewtown Upper Hutt—a hotspot boasting a cluster of award-winning breweries. Each stop offers curated tastings guided by knowledgeable professionals who share insights on brewing methods, ingredient sourcing, and the evolving local craft beer scene. This experience merges the city’s energetic urban backdrop with the lush, volcanic terrain surrounding Wellington, home to native flora like pōhutukawa trees and occasional tui birds that often accompany visitors outside the breweries.
The area's temperate climate fosters a relaxed setting for post-hike, after-work or weekend tastings. Zozo Travel Limited elevates the tour with private, Mercedes Sprinter transport, live onboard commentary, and flexible pick-up from central locations, including the Tākina Convention and Exhibition Centre. This thoughtful approach allows visitors to fully savor the flavors and stories without worrying about logistics.
Whether you’re a seasoned sour ale fan or just getting acquainted with New Zealand’s hops and malt, this tour offers a distinctive way to taste Wellington’s craft beer culture and support some of the region's innovative brewers. It’s original, accessible, and an important stop on the map for anyone looking to connect with the evolving spirit of New Zealand’s beverage scene.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book in advanceessential
These tours run Wednesday through Saturday with limited group sizes, so secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
- 02Bring valid IDessential
Participants must be 18+ with ID to enjoy tastings at all brewery stops.
- 03Plan your mealinfo
Food isn't included, so eat before the tour or bring light snacks if time allows for breaks.
- 04Wear comfortable shoesinfo
While mostly seated during transport, expect some walking inside brewery spaces—comfortable footwear helps.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Personal ID
Required for alcohol tasting at all breweries.
EssentialComfortable walking shoes
For walking around brewery spaces and urban areas.
EssentialLight waterproof jacket
Protects against Wellington’s unpredictable weather.
spring/fall/winterEssentialReusable water bottle
Stay hydrated between tastings.
Local insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Cloak and Petal craft beer garden in Lower Hutt, Brewtown’s smaller, boutique taprooms with experimental brews
Local fauna
Native tui birds commonly heard in urban green spaces, Fantails darting near outdoor brewery gardens
Historic heritage
Wellington’s craft beer rise began in the early 2000s, growing alongside New Zealand’s strong brewing traditions dating back to the 19th century.
Mindful exploration
Local breweries emphasize sustainable practices such as recycling spent grain and sourcing organic ingredients when possible.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Outside the iconic downtown brewery entrance, Brewtown’s rustic taproom interiors, Scenic outdoor patios surrounded by native plants
- Subjects
- Beer flights and taps, Artisan brewery interiors, Cityscape glimpses through brewery windows
- Best times
- Golden hour, afternoon light, early evening
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there may be time to buy food during the tour.
Is transportation provided between breweries?
Yes, private transport in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter is provided for the entire tour.
Can I participate if I’m under 18?
No, all participants must be at least 18 years old with valid ID to sample craft beer.
How many breweries will we visit?
The tour includes visits to three breweries in the Wellington region.
Are the tours available daily?
Tours run Wednesday through Saturday in the morning and Tuesday through Sunday in the afternoon/evening.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Please contact Zozo Travel Limited directly to confirm accessibility accommodations.