Last updated on September 26th, 2023 at 08:25 pm
In today’s guide, we’ll delve into New Zealand’s drinks – Top Drinks in New Zealand and some of the best Alcoholic and Non-alcoholic beverages in New Zealand. Whether it’s the Māori Herbal Tea or Kawakawa, Kiwi juices, feijoa smoothie, manuka honey drinks, or more, we’ll get acquainted with drinks you need to try when visiting New Zealand.
New Zealand, known for its majestic landscapes and Maori heritage, also boasts an impressive selection of drinks. From traditional Maori brews to modern-day craft beers and wines, there’s a drink for every palate. Let’s not forget about the delightful non-alcoholic New Zealand drinks like the famous Kiwi fruit juices and smoothies. Read here Breakfast in New Zealand
On average, in New Zealand, a cup of coffee will cost you around $4-5 NZD, while beers and wines might be around $6-10 NZD. Cocktails and specialty drinks can range from $12-20 NZD based on the establishment.
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WHERE TO STAY IN NEW ZEALAND – DRINKS IN NEW ZEALAND
Budget travelers can find hostels and dorms for about $25-35 NZD per night. Mid-range hotels can set you back $80-150 NZD for a comfortable stay. Luxury accommodations usually start at $200 NZD per night.
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DRINKS IN NEW ZEALAND: BEST NEW ZEALAND BEVERAGES
ALCOHOLIC DRINKS IN NEW ZEALAND
1. SAUVIGNON BLANC
The Marlborough region of New Zealand has become synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc. This aromatic wine, noted for its green and fresh tropical flavors, often contains distinct notes of lime, green apple, passion fruit, and occasionally it has characteristic notes of bell pepper or freshly cut grass. These crisp and fruity notes make it not just a beverage, but an experience. The cool climate and unique soil composition of Marlborough impart a unique character to its Sauvignon Blanc, making it a must-try for every wine aficionado.
2. LEMON & PAEROA (L&P)
Hailing from the town of Paeroa, this iconic New Zealand soft drink began its journey in 1907. With a combination of lemon juice and carbonated mineral water sourced from the town, L&P provides a refreshing lemony flavor that’s both sweet and tangy. Over the years, its popularity has grown so much that it’s often cheekily described as “World Famous in New Zealand.”
3. MĀORI HERBAL TEA (KAWAKAWA)
Deeply rooted in Māori tradition, this herbal tea is brewed using the kawakawa plant leaves. Historically, Māori used the plant for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The tea offers a somewhat peppery taste and is believed to have digestive benefits and other medicinal properties, making it a combination of flavor and health.
4. FEIJOA SMOOTHIE
Feijoa, or the pineapple guava, is a green, ellipsoid-shaped fruit that is packed with a punch of flavor. Native to South America but widely cultivated in New Zealand, when blended into a smoothie, it offers a symphony of tastes – tangy, sweet, and slightly tart, reminiscent of a mix between pineapple, mint, and apple.
5. MANUKA HONEY DRINK
Manuka honey, harvested from the nectar of the native Manuka tree, is world-famous for its potent antibacterial properties. Beyond its health benefits, it has a rich, complex flavor. When dissolved in warm water or milk, it doesn’t just soothe the throat but also invigorates the senses.
BEERS IN NEW ZEALAND
6. SPEIGHT’S GOLD MEDAL ALE
Originating from Dunedin, Speight’s Gold Medal Ale is deeply woven into New Zealand’s beer culture. Brewed since the late 19th century, its consistent malt-forward flavor with a gentle bitterness and caramel undertones has made it a cherished beverage across generations.
7. TUATARA APA
Showcasing New Zealand’s thriving craft beer industry, Tuatara APA (Aotearoa Pale Ale) stands out with its flavorful profile. With a blend of local hops, it delivers a burst of tropical fruit flavors followed by a crisp finish, making it a refreshing option for hop lovers.
8. WAIALE ALE
Emphasizing the purity of New Zealand’s natural ingredients, Waiale Ale is a testament to quality brewing. This ale offers a harmonious blend of malt sweetness and citrusy hops, resulting in a drink that is as refreshing as a Kiwi summer day.
9. MAC’S BLACK MAC
A rich dark lager, Black Mac combines the goodness of roasted malts with subtle hints of chocolate and caramel. Its smooth texture, combined with its complex flavor profile, makes it a favorite among those who prefer dark beers.
NON-ALCOHOLIC DRINKS IN NEW ZEALAND
10. KIWI FRUIT JUICE
The Kiwi fruit, emblematic of New Zealand, offers a vibrant green juice that’s a blend of sweetness and tartness. Packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, it’s not just a drink but a health elixir.
11. FLAT WHITE COFFEE
A cousin to the latte, the Flat White has become synonymous with New Zealand’s coffee culture. It boasts a rich espresso shot mellowed down with velvety steamed milk. The result is a creamy, robust coffee that energizes and satisfies.
12. PHOENIX ORGANIC DRINKS
As consumers globally lean towards organic choices, Phoenix Organic drinks cater to this demand with a range of sodas and fruit juices. Made without artificial additives and preservatives, these drinks capture the essence of nature in a bottle.
13. KUMARA SMOOTHIE
Kumara, or the New Zealand sweet potato, is a versatile ingredient. When blended into a smoothie with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it transforms into a creamy, sweet drink with hints of earthiness and spice.
14. RASPBERRY FIZZ
An effervescent treat, Raspberry Fizz is the perfect combination of sweet raspberry flavor and the exhilaration of carbonated bubbles. Best enjoyed on a sunny day, this drink is a burst of joy in every sip.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Sip (Drinks in New Zealand)
When visiting New Zealand, make sure to try top drinks in New Zealand like Māori Herbal Tea or Kawakawa, Kiwi juices, feijoa smootie, manuka honey drinks and more.
Beyond their flavors, the drinks of New Zealand narrate tales of its land, its people, and its heritage. From the crisp notes of Sauvignon Blanc reflecting the temperate climes of Marlborough to the traditional kawakawa tea embodying centuries of Maori wisdom, every sip is an invitation to experience a part of New Zealand’s soul. As the world continues to evolve, the Kiwi nation remains a beacon of how traditions and innovations can coalesce to create something truly remarkable. So, the next time you find yourself sipping a drink from New Zealand, remember — it’s not just a beverage; it’s a story.
We hope you enjoyed our guide on Drinks in New Zealand. Let us know in the comments if we missed any significant New Zealand drinks or if you have a favorite from our list!
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About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.