NELSON CRAFT BEER TRAIL

Beer has been central to the local culture of the Nelson-Tasman region, dating back to the first New Zealand settlements in the 1840s. Early German settlers in Sarau found the Moutere to be an ideal location and climate to cultivate hops, and an extensive brewing tradition followed.

 

Craft breweries of all sizes now stretch from Nelson City to Onekaka in Golden Bay. They make a perfect excuse for a half-day or full-day tour exploring all the gorgeous corners of the region.

Climbing from the waterfront up into the foothills, watch for historic hop kilns along the way.

 

Many of these locally owned, family-run breweries and outlets welcome visitors for tours, sampling at the bar, having a meal or takeaway sales. Share a pint with locals, learn about our history and experience the wide range of unique beers. Whether you prefer an icy pilsner or a cask-pulled ale, you’ll find it in Nelson.

 

Some can be reached by foot from your lodging, others along a nice cycle loop, and the rest are worth the drive or take a tour.

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