Ground Up

A brewery and taproom in one, this local Wānaka favourite continues to grow and impress.

Thanks to an expansion in 2020 the space now features 22 taps of the good stuff, all of which are Ground Up originals, along with the occasional guest beer and cider. While there are plenty of recurring favourites to try, you'll also find seasonal-inspired brews and speciality barrel-aged beverages. If you're stuck on what to order, the Crag Dog Hazy Pale Ale and Groove Train Hazy IPA remain their most popular.

But to really understand Ground Up, you'd have to know exactly how it started. Climbing pals for some years now, two young brewers met while doing rope access work, making them no strangers to heading confidently into unknown territory. Relying entirely on their own passion, knowledge and hard-working attitude (rather than big investment help), Ground Up has always held an unmistakable humble edge — it's clear that the brewing happens for the love of beer.

The large deck out front has brilliant views of the mountains, and in true Ground Up fashion, the team worked with Wastebusters to source some second-hand furniture for the interior. You won't go hungry here, as their Brewery Lane food truck keeps customers happy and fed with flavourful fare right on site. From wedges and flatbread to burgers, pizzas and nachos, there are plenty of options to satisfy all appetites.