Wildkiwi Distillery Brewtown

In Upper Hutt, Wildkiwi Distillery Brewtown is on a singular mission: to make wild whisky that tastes unmistakably of New Zealand. They take earthy Tararua water, smoke Canterbury grain over West Coast peat, and rest the spirit for years in charred red wine barrels. While patience works its magic, their stunning bar pours more than 100 whiskies from around the world, alongside crisp Kiwi ales from their beer partners Good George, the Hamilton craft crew making waves far beyond their hometown.

Food follows suit with bold, satisfying flavours designed for good company. Small plates set the pace, from buffalo chicken wings with tang and heat to sticky char sui pork belly bites. Pizzas keep things convivial, ranging from a classic margarita to a spicy pepperoni, while mains nod to the coast and the paddock with cook strait fish, crumbed or battered, and a grass-fed, chargrilled, 21-day aged sirloin.

Burgers bring comfort with a twist, from the grilled halloumi number to the aptly named Supersonic NZ Beef. For sharing, the meaty mixed platter is a crowd-pleaser, and the Wild Kiwi cheeseboard balances richness with crackers, grapes and nuts. Sweet endings are simple and nostalgic - apple crumble or a sundae - and little diners are looked after with a compact kids' menu.

Whether you are chasing smoke, malt or hops, this is a place to linger over a glass and a good feed. Drop by for a taster, stay for a slice, and let the Kiwi spirit carry you home.