The Christchurch NZ Beer Bible: The Best 6 Breweries in Town
David Sims
| Last Updated: January 2024 Why don’t brewers ever get sunburned? Because they always have plenty of shade! Now that we’ve got the jokes out of the way, on to the serious business: if you’re a beer lover checking out Christchurch, New Zealand, you’re in for the pint of your life.
After stumbling from one brewery to another and having a few sample pints at each one, we think we’ve found the top options among the many, many amazing ones in the city. Here are our top picks for the best breweries in the city!
1. Punky Brewster
Address: 22B Tyne Street, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 7 PM
Phone: +6436629943
Punky Brewster is not just your run-of-the-mill brewery—it’s the city’s first craft beer fillery and bar! They’ve got a wide range of brews on tap, but an absolute favourite is the Chinchiller tiramisu sweet stout.
It’s roasty, malty, and light—just the perfect balance. Plus, it’s choco’licious with just a hint of cold-brewed coffee. With an ABV of 5.8%, it packs a punch but is smooth enough to enjoy all night long.
Pro Tip: Not only do they serve great beer, but they also whip up delicious food, wines, mixed drinks, and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a great spot for a night out, regardless of what you’re in the mood to drink.
2. Cassels The Brewery Bar & Restaurant
Cassels The Brewery Bar & Restaurant
Address: 3 Garlands Road, Woolston, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6433895359
Cassels The Brewery Bar & Restaurant has some serious street cred.
Their fogged-up, hazy pale ale is something to write home about. With a tropical fruit vibe that meets punchy hop characteristics, it’s like a tropical holiday in a glass.
If you’re after something a bit more summery, their tropicana IPA is a winner. Bright, refreshing aromas and juicy tropical flavours make it the ultimate summer drop.
Pro Tip: Don’t just stop at the beer. Check out their restaurant. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, enjoy a hearty meal, and have a good pint.
3. Kaiser Brew Garden
Address: Riverside Market Level 1/96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +6433666100
You can’t talk about Christchurch’s brewing scene without mentioning Kaiser Brew Garden. This spot is a hop haven for beer lovers.
Kaiser’s signature English ale is a must-try, coming in at a comfortable 5%. It’s a classic, well-balanced pint that pays homage to the traditional British style.
The Kaizer hazy, with a slightly stronger ABV of 5.5%, is a hit with beer aficionados. It’s got a cloudy complexion, a juicy burst of hop flavour, and a finish that’s as smooth as they come.
Pro Tip: Kaiser Brew Garden is known for mixing things up and showcasing some exceptional brews from around the country. Ask for whatever’s on tap to taste the best of what they have to offer.
4. Two Thumb Brewing Co.
Address: 352 Manchester Street, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 2 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 7 PM
Phone: +642108377539
Two Thumb Brewing Co. is a testament to Christchurch’s thriving craft beer culture, and it’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good brew.
One of their standout offerings is Pop’s lemon pie. It’s got a citrusy zing that’s balanced out by a sweetness reminiscent of a slice of your pop’s homemade lemon pie. It’s a refreshing brew that’ll leave you craving more.
Two Thumb also makes a Yorkshire bitter that’s a real crowd-pleaser. It’s got a rich malt character that’s balanced with a bitter finish—the kind of brew that makes you feel like you’re in a cosy English pub.
Pro Tip: Make sure to try their milk-stout blackforest rye. It’s like a dessert in a glass, with a creamy mouthfeel and a hint of cherry and chocolate.
5. Wigram Brewing Company Ltd
Address: 57 Sonter Road, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 7 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 7 PM
Phone: +6433434493
Brewery Tours: Starting at 30 NZD
Wigram Brewing Company Ltd. is an absolute must-visit for all you brew enthusiasts out there.
First up, you’ve got to try their mustang pale ale. This bad boy is fermented using a classic English ale yeast, giving it a distinct, tantalising flavour profile. It’s the kind of brew that’ll have you savouring every last drop.
You can’t leave without trying the – we love this name – captain fantastic. Think tropical and citrous notes, coupled with a lush, ‘juicy’ mouthfeel.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check out their online shop. You’ll find all their fantastic brews there, and you can enjoy them right in the comfort of your home.
6. Lighthouse Brewing Company
Address: 18 Bath Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
Hours: Friday – 4 PM to 8 PM
Phone: +6421856568
Lighthouse Brewing Company is a beacon of quality in the sea of brews. Their beers are carefully crafted with an emphasis on unique flavours and quality ingredients, resulting in brews that are as refreshing as they are innovative.
Their pale ale is a hop-forward beer with a tropical aroma and a crisp, clean finish. It’s like diving into a wave on a hot summer’s day—refreshing, invigorating, and absolutely delicious!
Pro Tip: Call to enquire about their brewery tours!
