Craft Beer in Nelson
The Nelson region produces all of New Zealand’s commercial hops so it’s no wonder that 10 fantastic craft breweries have “hopped” up over the years. Craft breweries of all sizes are found between the city centre of Nelson all the way out to Golden Bay, so we put together this quick guide of all the craft breweries in Nelson.
Beer-making in Nelson dates back to the 1840s when early German settlers found the area of Moutere to be an ideal location for cultivating hops. The tradition lives on today, with some of New Zealand’s most famous craft beers coming out of Nelson.
Many of the breweries in Nelson are family-owned outlets that invite visitors for tours, a sampling of their creations at the bar, or along with some food. So while you’re cycling the Great Taste Trail, walking from your accommodation, or taking a tour, these are the Nelson breweries you can’t miss!
Table of Contents
1. Eddyline Pizzeria Brewpub
Originally from Colorado before making its way to New Zealand, Eddyline has become one of the biggest names in Nelson’s craft beer scene.
The brewery is particularly known for its hop-forward beers and hazy IPAs, with many brews made using locally grown Nelson hops. Their “Stoke” taproom pours beer directly from the brewery floor for exceptional freshness, while the Richmond pizzeria location serves up wood-fired pizzas alongside their craft beers.
Eddyline is just off the Nelson Great Taste Trail and the Sylvan Forest Mountain Bike Trails (check out Mountain Biking in Nelson Tasman for more information), making it a great place to end a ride with a pizza and a beer.
The venue also offers New Mexican-inspired food like tacos and burritos. Eddyline is open seven days a week.
Richmond also has its fair share of wineries too, so make sure to check those out at 20 Nelson Wineries on the Nelson Wine Trail.
Location: 8 Champion Road, Richmond.
© Eddyline2. McCashin’s Brewery
Check out McCashin’s Brewery, a true pioneer in New Zealand’s craft beer scene and the birthplace of the iconic Stoke beer brand.
Founded by Terry McCashin in the 1980s, this historic brewery played a major role in reviving independent brewing across the country.
Today, the brewery continues to produce a range of beers and ciders, showcasing locally sourced Nelson ingredients and hops.
Join a brewery tour at 11 am or 2 pm to learn about the company’s influential history, then relax in the café and bar. McCashin’s Brewery is open seven days a week from 7 am!
Location: 660 Main Road, Stoke.
© Nelson Regional Development Agency3. Sprig & Fern Brewery
Sprig & Fern has become one of the most recognisable names in Nelson’s craft beer scene. Their beers are brewed right here in Richmond, specialising in approachable English-style ales, seasonal brews and hop-driven craft beers using Nelson-grown hops.
The Hardy Street tavern offers a cosy pub atmosphere with fireplaces, live music and rotating taps featuring both flagship and limited-release beers. Their tasting trays are a great way to sample a variety of brews in one visit.
Unlike larger commercial bars, Sprig & Fern focuses on community-style taverns where locals gather for quality beer and relaxed conversation.
Plus, they do some affordable food. More information at Cheap Eats in Nelson.
Brewery tours can be booked by appointment. The brewery is open Tuesday to Saturday.
Location: 53 Beach Road, Richmond.
© Sprig & Fern4. Golden Bear Brewery
Golden Bear Brewing Company brings a Californian-inspired vibe to the local craft beer scene. Their West Coast IPAs, pale ales and seasonal brews are crafted on-site in their microbrewery, perfect for sampling alongside hearty American-style comfort food like burgers, loaded fries and smoked meats.
The brewery doubles as a lively gastropub with indoor and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot to experience Nelson’s nightlife.
Live music and events add to the vibrant social atmosphere, especially on weekends. Brewery tours can be booked by appointment if you’re keen to see the brewing process up close.
Location: 12 Aranui Road, Mapua.
© Neat Places -Nelson Regional Development Agency5. Hop Federation
Founded by a family of hop growers, Hop Federation is deeply rooted in the hop-growing heritage of Nelson. The brewery specialises in hop-forward beers, particularly hazy IPAs and pale ales that showcase locally grown Nelson hops like “Nelson Sauvin” and “Motueka”.
Their small taproom offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can taste ultra-fresh beer directly from the source, open seven days a week all year round.
Because the brewers are also hop farmers, Hop Federation has a strong focus on highlighting the unique flavours and aromas produced by Nelson’s world-famous hop varieties.
Location: 483 Main Road, Riwaka.
© BareKiwi - Nelson Regional Development Agency6. The Free House
One of Nelson’s most distinctive beer destinations, The Free House operates as a community-owned, non-profit craft beer bar in a beautifully restored church building.
What sets this venue apart is its unwavering focus on independent breweries and beer quality, with an ever-changing selection of local and New Zealand craft beers on tap. The historic church setting adds real character to the experience, from soaring ceilings to original stained glass windows.
In warmer months, the welcoming garden bar area becomes a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike. You won’t find any gaming machines or alcohol advertising here, just exceptional beer, good conversation and a genuine sense of community.
Regular tap takeovers and live music events keep things lively, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Nelson’s craft beer scene.
Location: 95 Collingwood Street.
© Nelson Regional Development Agency7. Townshend Brewery
One of the most established names in the wider Nelson craft beer scene, Townshend Brewery has been producing clean, balanced brews since 2005.
Just a short drive from central Nelson in Richmond, this brewery has earned a solid reputation for its core range of pilsners, lagers and ales, all widely available across New Zealand.
What we appreciate most is their commitment to showcasing New Zealand hops through seasonal and limited-release brews, while still keeping things approachable for all beer drinkers.
The brewery bar and restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy quality beer paired with simple, well-executed food.
Location: 483 Main Road, Motueka.
© Nelson Regional Development Agency8. The Mussel Inn Brewery
Over the Takaka Hill into Golden Bay is The Mussel Inn Brewery, a legendary spot among New Zealand craft beer enthusiasts. This rustic country pub has achieved cult status for its alternative vibe, live music and experimental brewing techniques using local ingredients.
The 1,200-litre (317-gallon) brew plant produces unique ales, lagers and seasonal ciders, with their famous “Captain Cooker Manuka Beer” brewed using mānuka smoked malt and leaves standing out as a must-try.
Beyond the brews, you can enjoy hearty wood-fired meals and their well-known mussel dishes in a true country pub atmosphere.
They are open seven days a week except in August.
Location: Onekaka, Golden Bay.
© Neat Places - Nelson Regional Development AgencyMore About Nelson
That’s it for our guide to the best craft breweries in Nelson; for more information about Nelson’s incredible food and drink scene, check out the following articles:
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Nelson.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
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