Verve

A short stroll from the lakeside, Verve is the newest bar to join Wānaka’s downtown scene. The concept here is simple but enticing: good beer and good wine.

Opened in December 2024, Verve is the brainchild of Lucy Wilson, a well-known hospitality figure having managed local hotspots like Muttonbird, Ground Up and Kika, with experience across the UK and Australia too. While Wānaka isn’t short on wine and craft beer producers, Lucy wanted to give the local crowd an opportunity to experience delicious drops not typically available in their neck of the woods.

With a rotating drinks list that changes often, there’s no chance of being bored at Verve. Lucy and the team source beers from breweries all over the country, with appearances from popular North Island names. In the wine department, it’s a party of bottles from local and small independent producers, wineries across New Zealand and fun additions from international vineyards. One moment you could be sipping a wine from Gisborne, the next something interesting from Jura in France. Feeling peckish? Look to the menu for yum snacks to complement your drink and keep an eye out for exciting chef takeovers.

The atmosphere at Verve is warm, bright and light-hearted, with house wine options for those who want a casual fuss-free tipple. It’s not about how much you know about wine or craft beer, it’s just about being open to trying something new and enjoying a good drink surrounded by good people. Although Verve is indoor only, the bi-folding windows work their magic to invite the outdoor world in – so you can enjoy the natural beauty of Wānaka with every sip.