Wellington Breweries and Craft Beer Bars You Have to Try!
Wellington is the capital of many things, including craft beer! The craft beer revolution is taking New Zealand by storm, and the evidence is clear in Wellington.
The city is packed with craft beer bars and breweries with cellar doors open for business. Culture your palette and taste the beers for yourself at the breweries and craft beer bars in Wellington listed below!
From the heart of the city to the cool suburban areas, Wellington has plenty of crafty experiences to offer. To complement your craft beer bar crawl, check out these 10 Wellington Must-Dos, and find a place to stay with these fantastic 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Wellington City and 10 Best Hotels in Wellington.
Table of Contents
1. Fork & Brewer
Discover a beer lover’s paradise at Fork & Brewer, where premium beer and quality food are crafted to perfection. This innovative venue showcases Wellington’s awesome beer culture with 42 taps pouring, including 41 brews from their very own Champion brewery.
We’re big fans of their signature “Fork & Golden Mile Lager” and the “F&B Hazy Train”.
Watch the 1000-litre brewery in action from most seats in the house while enjoying top-notch cuisine prepared by their skilled kitchen crew.
With friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere, Fork & Brewer takes Wellington’s beer scene to an entirely new level.
Location: 20A Bond Street, Wellington, North Island. Open Monday to Saturday: 11:30 am – late, Sunday: Closed
© Fork & Brewer2. Garage Project Aro Taproom: 91 Aro
Ideally located on Aro Street, the Garage Project Aro Taproom is a craft beer lover’s paradise. With 18 rotating taps, including a Lukr tap for that creamy lager fix and a cask line, there’s plenty to tantalise your taste buds.
From what we’ve experienced, their selection goes beyond just draught; you’ll find other treats in cans and bottles, plus some special tucked-away cellar brews.
We love their diverse range, which includes beers and wines crafted by their team at both the brewery and their Wild Workshop.
Expect everything from classic lagers and ales to weird and wonderful sours and wild ferments. Feeling peckish? They’ve got you covered with delicacies like crisps and house-made onion dip, as well as excellent toasted sandwiches.
For the adventurous, don’t miss unique offerings like their “Two Tap Mocha”, “Cereal Milk Stout”, “Pickle Beer” and Konbini Peach Lime.
Location: 91 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington, North Island.
© NZPocketGuide.com3. Abandoned Brewery
Abandoned Brewery offers a unique craft beer experience with taprooms in both Porirua and Petone. We’re big fans of their innovative brews and laid-back atmosphere. The brewery itself is located in Lower Hutt, but the real action happens at their vibrant taprooms.
At the Petone taproom, you’ll find “BFO Sandwiches”, alongside other rotating sandwich options. Meanwhile, the Porirua taproom has partnered with The Karaage Kid to serve up mouthwatering burgers.
Both locations offer a selection of beers, wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic options to suit all tastes.
Location: Brewery – 5 Derwent Lee Grove, Epuni, Lower Hutt. Porirua Taproom – 20 Parumoana Street, Porirua. Petone Taproom – 38 Fitzherbert Street, Petone.
© Mark Tantrum - WellingtonNZ4. Baylands Brewery
Baylands Brewery in Petone, Lower Hutt, is a craft beer lover’s paradise that pushes the boundaries of brewing. This adventurous brewery boasts a full-service bar with over 30 taps, allowing you to savour a variety of their unique brews on-site.
But Baylands isn’t just about beer. With a wide range of gins, premium spirits, wines, and non-alcoholic options, there’s something for everyone.
Enjoy a feed while you sample their brews. Don’t miss their chocolate rye stout, “Night Ryder”, or grab some cans of their notable brews like “Deep Dropper” and “Fresh Outta Riwaka” to take away.
For events, Baylands offers a private function space for up to 70 people, or you can hire the entire venue for gatherings of up to 200. It’s the perfect spot for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
Location: 22 Victoria Street, Petone, Lower Hutt, North Island.
© Baylands Brewery5. Kereru
Kereru is an independent brewery near Wellington, dedicated to crafting high-quality traditional and gluten-free beers. We like their innovative approach, blending European and British styles with New Zealand-grown ingredients.
Their cellar door in Upper Hutt offers a unique tasting experience, showcasing their award-winning range of traditional, gluten-free, low-alcohol, and NZ Whisky Barrel-aged luxurious beers.
As New Zealand’s highest-rated gluten-free brewery, Kereru takes special care in producing entirely gluten-free beers (none detected at 3PPM). They also offer a selection of refreshing soft drinks.
Tours of the brewery are available by appointment, giving you a chance to see their passion and expertise first-hand.
Location: 415A Maidstone Terrace, Upper Hutt. Open from 2 pm to 4 pm Wednesday to Friday, and 11 am to 5 pm Saturday. Closed Sunday to Tuesday.
© Kereru6. Garage Project Aro Cellar Door
The Garage Project Aro Cellar Door is a must-visit for craft beer lovers in Wellington.
Located right next to the original brewery in Aro Valley, this tasting room offers a rotating selection of eight beer taps, all available for free tasting. We love their creative brews, from the classic “Kotare Gold” to the intriguing “Riwaka Only Fans”.
Bring your own vessel or purchase a reusable one to fill up with your favourite brew to take away. Alternatively, grab some cold, frosty cans and bottles straight from the fridge.
The cellar door is open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 6-8 pm (closed on Mondays), making it perfect for an afternoon or early evening tasting session.
Location: 68 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington, North Island.
© PocketGuide.com7. The Malthouse
When experiencing the Wellington nightlife, don’t miss this craft beer hub! The Malthouse has been a thriving part of Wellington’s beer scene since 1993.
With an impressive 30 rotating craft beer taps and over 85 different beers in their fridges, you’ll find every beer style imaginable. It’s the perfect spot for beer enthusiasts to sample a wide range of craft brews and experience true hoppiness!
Location: 76 Willis Street, Wellington, North Island.
© epicbeer on Flickr8. Heyday Beer Co
Heyday Beer Co is a fresh and vibrant brewpub on Upper Cuba St, Wellington. This dog-friendly establishment has transformed a car park into a relaxing space with picnic tables and beanbags overlooking a games court.
We admire their inventive brewing; each year, they create around 25 different beers, which include coffee-infused white stouts and grapefruit New England IPAs.
Beer lovers will appreciate Heyday’s diverse offerings, including seasonal releases, a lager series, sour series, and the Odd Assembly Belgian series. Whether you’re after a crisp lager or an adventurous sour, there’s something to tickle every palate.
Location: Upper Cuba Street, Wellington, North Island. Open Tuesday to Thursday from 4 pm, Friday to Sunday from 12 pm.
© Pivot Photography - WellingtonNZ9. Fortune Favours
Fortune Favours is a craft beer lover’s paradise. This trendy bar boasts an impressive lineup of brews, including their standout creations: “The Mystical Hazy IPA”, “The Wellington IPA” and “The Adventurer Pilsner”.
But it’s not just about the beer here; the food menu is equally enticing. From crispy fried chicken and succulent BBQ ribs to stacked burgers and hearty dirty rice bowls, the comfort food pairs perfectly with a cold pint.
The bar’s atmosphere is a winning blend of industrial chic and cosy charm, with exposed brick walls, spacious tables, and a touch of neon lighting.
Its prime location in Te Aro puts you right in the thick of Wellington’s dining district, making it an ideal spot for an evening out or a leisurely weekend afternoon.
Location: 7 Leeds Street, Te Aro, Wellington, North Island.
© NZPocketGuide.com10. Little Beer Quarter
Little Beer Quarter (LBQ), a craft beer lover’s paradise in the heart of Wellington. With 12 rotating taps, two handpulls, one nitro tap and over 100 beers in the fridge, LBQ pours the best from New Zealand’s craft beer, cider and wine scene, plus a top international selection.
Match your drink of choice with a speciality pizza, burger, main or snack from their gastro-pub menu. The last time we stopped by, we were delighted by the vibrant atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
Open Sunday-Tuesday from 3 pm to late, and Wednesday-Saturday from 12 pm to late.
LBQ is available for lunch, afternoon and evening group function bookings.
Location: 6 Edward Street, Te Aro, Wellington, North Island.
© Little Beer Quarter11. Rogue & Vagabond
For craft beer enthusiasts and live music lovers, Rogue & Vagabond is a must-visit destination in Wellington.
This lively bar boasts 18 beer taps, including notable brews like “Fool’s Gold”, “Red IPA”, “Tiramisu Stout”, and “Electric Possum”. The city’s first craft beer garden offers a spacious outdoor area where you can relax on bean bags during sunny days.
We personally love the easy-going atmosphere and diverse entertainment options. Don’t miss their super cheap food deals featured in our Cheap Eats in Wellington guide.
Location: 18 Garrett Street, Wellington, North Island.
© WellingtonNZ12. Golding’s Free Dive
Golding’s Free Dive is a craft beer lover’s paradise. This cool little bar serves up a fantastic selection of fresh local brews and interesting wines. Open daily from midday to 11 pm, it’s the perfect spot for both afternoon sips and evening hangouts.
Craving a bite? Order authentic Neapolitan pizza from their friendly neighbours, Pizza Pomodoro, right at the bar (Tuesday to Saturday, midday to 9 pm).
Golding’s takes its cues from American dive bars, celebrating the local watering holes of North America and Europe, and crafting a distinct vibe in the center of New Zealand’s capital.
Location: 14 Leeds Street, Te Aro, Wellington, North Island.
© Pivot Photography - WellingtonNZ13. ParrotDog
Nestled a block back from the dunes of Wellington’s iconic Lyall Bay, ParrotDog Bar takes us back to a simpler time.
Inspired by the great pubs and taverns of yesteryear, you’ll find cosy booths, a pool table with views of the brewery, and at the heart, a traditional-style bar with 17 revolving taps.
These showcase the brewery’s core range, “ReinCanation” series and “L.B (Lyall Bay) Beer” series.
Only a stone’s throw from Wellington Airport, ParrotDog Bar and Brewery is the perfect spot for a cold one before or after a flight.
For takeaway options, visit Nice, their cellar door in Lyall Bay, featuring a walk-in chiller full of bottled and canned beer, plus 10 taps pouring ParrotDog classics.
Location: 60-66 Kingsford Smith Street, Lyall Bay, Wellington, North Island. One block from Lyall Bay beach.
© WellingtonNZ14. Waitoa Hātaitai
Experience the best of both worlds at Waitoa Hātaitai, a micro-brewery that transforms into a vibrant bar by night. This local gem combines the quality of the city with the cosy feel of the suburbs, offering a unique blend of craft beer and community spirit.
Bring your own flagon to fill and take away, or settle in for the evening with board games and beverages. The venue welcomes food from nearby eateries, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out.
Waitoa Hātaitai is always eager to support local events and fundraising efforts. Whether you’re looking to host an event or need beverages for an off-site function, they’re ready to assist.
The space is accessible, child-friendly, and even welcomes your four-legged friends, truly embodying the spirit of a neighbourhood hangout.
Location: 32 Waitoa Road, Hataitai, Wellington, New Zealand.
© Waitoa Hātaitai15. Mean Doses
Mean Doses is the home of Mean Beer, where you can taste the latest creations from their brewery just 280 metres up the road. But it’s not just about beer; this vibrant venue offers a diverse range of drinks including gins, whisky, wine and even cocktails.
Teaming up with their downstairs neighbours, Apache, Mean Doses brings you a selection of dishes from their Vietnamese/French fusion menu. For entertainment, you’ll find a pool table, three pinball machines, three space arcades, and even a shuffleboard. They also host a weekly quiz night for those looking for a mental challenge.
Mean Doses is dog-friendly too, making it a perfect spot for all types of visitors. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, Mean Doses offers a unique mix of drinks, food and entertainment.
Location: Level 1, 66 Tory St, Te Aro, Wellington, North Island.
© WellingtonNZMore About Wellington
That’s it for our guide to Wellington’s breweries and craft beer bars; for more information about Wellington, check out the following articles:
- 10 Things to Do in Wellington on a Rainy Day
- 10 Things to Do in Wellington for Foodies
- The Foodie Guide to Wellington
- The 50 Best Accommodations in Wellington
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Wellington.
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])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
