Renegade Brewing Co

Tucked into the industrial grid of Sydenham, on the corner of Orbell and Disraeli Streets, Renegade Brewing Co is part working brewery, part neighbourhood hangout. This is a no-fuss, grassroots operation contributing to the area’s growing mix of creative, delicious pursuits, with brewing equipment on full display and the occasional chance to watch the process in action while you sip.

Renegade opened in April 2025, the passion project of husband-and-wife team Thomas and Amy Deverson. With more than a decade in the brewing industry behind him, Thomas had long dreamed of running his own brewery, and this warehouse space felt like the right place to make it happen. Drawing on years of work, travel and tasting, the pair have blended their favourite elements into what they see as the perfect local brewery for Ōtautahi.

The fit-out is self-built, using recycled materials and New Zealand timber to complement the building’s original industrial bones. Constantly evolving, the space shifts week by week, with lofty ceilings, repurposed furniture and plenty of greenery giving it an easy, lived-in feel. It’s unpretentious and genuinely welcoming (kids and dogs included) with a strong family presence that adds to the relaxed charm. You’ll often find Thomas’ parents behind the bar, or their two-year-old daughter darting about, making the whole place feel familiar from the moment you arrive.

Renegade’s beer line-up is varied and unique, brewed in small 600-litre batches to keep things fresh, consistent and interesting. With no bottling, canning or distribution beyond Christchurch, everything here is truly local and waste-conscious, available by the pint or take-home rigger. You’ll also find house-made cider, kombucha and ‘Hop-Tonic’, plus a handful of non-beer options.

Food trucks roll in during opening hours (check socials for who’s cooking), and the space regularly hosts DJ nights, quizzes, celebrations and private functions. A true community brewery, built by hand and fuelled by good beer and good people.