Today, Friday the 7th of August, Kiwis will join beer lovers around the world in raising a glass to International Beer Day, celebrating the brewers, hospitality businesses and communities that make New Zealand's beer culture so special.
Brewers Association of New Zealand Executive Director Dylan Firth said International Beer Day has become a chance to celebrate one of New Zealand's favourite adult beverages.
"Beer has always been about bringing people together, whether it's catching up with friends at the local, enjoying a barbecue, watching your favourite team, or discovering a new brewery," said Firth.
"International Beer Day is a great opportunity to celebrate New Zealand's incredible brewing culture."
Beer has remained New Zealand's most popular alcoholic beverage, with around 268 million litres consumed each year. While overall volumes have eased in recent years, brewers continue to innovate as consumer tastes evolve.
Low-carb beer now accounts for 27 percent of beer sold, while no-alcohol beer has grown to 2.7 percent of the market and continued to gain momentum. Lager remains the nation's favourite style, making up 68.7 percent of all beer consumed.
The industry has also made a significant contribution to the country, returning more than NZD 870 million annually in excise duty and GST, with beer contributing more domestically produced excise than any other alcohol category.
"Behind every great beer is a passionate brewer, local employees and a community of people who love what they do. We encourage New Zealanders to enjoy their favourite beer or pub this International Beer Day and enjoy beer responsibly."
More from the breweries here
