Craft Beer Capital welcomes Beervana
In August, Wellington welcomes Beervana – New Zealand’s annual celebration of craft beer.
In 2013 9,500 people attended Beervana, with 35% of those people coming from outside of Wellington and organisers are
expecting more than 11,000 this year.
Mayor Celia Wade-Brown, who had a coffee-infused craft beer ale named after her in 2012, says Wellington has seen a
proliferation of craft beer establishments in Wellington, along with a growing community of beer aficionados.
“Alongside many Wellingtonians, I’m really enjoying the subtle notes and flavours of craft beer,” she says. “I
congratulate festival director David Cryer and the Beervana team, and our flourishing community of brewers for their
promotion of craft beer in the Capital and overseas.”
Councillor Jo Coughlan, Chair of Council’s Economic Growth and Arts committee says that Beervana makes a significant
contribution to the Wellington Economy, by attracting visitors to the city and supporting the local craft brewing
industry, as well as enhancing Wellington’s reputation as a great place to live.
“Wellington is both the Craft Beer Capital and the Events Capital of New Zealand – which makes Beervana a perfect
example of an event that helps grow the economy, showcases local talent and provides a fantastic experience for both
visitors and Wellingtonians alike” says Councillor Coughlan.
“Visitors who came to Wellington for Beervana in 2013 spent nearly $2 million in the city over two days” says Councillor
Coughlan.
Wellington City Council is proud to support Beervana through the Events Development Fund, which is funded by a levy on
commercial rate payers as a means to drive the Wellington economy through major events.
“Being the craft beer Capital, Wellington is the natural home for Beervana and we greatly appreciate Wellington City
Council’s support of this iconic event,” says Beervana Director David Cryer. “Visitors here for Beervana also love the
compact nature of the city, as everything is within easy walking distance, from going to the stadium for Beervana, to
enjoying all the great eateries and bars the Capital offers.”
Craft beer is one of the fastest growing food and beverage categories in New Zealand. Total craft beer sales in grocery
grew by 33.0 percent in the year to 16 November 2013 on a Moving Average Total (MAT) basis, while total annual beer
sales overall were up by 4.5 percent.
Gerard Quinn, Chief Executive of regional economic development agency Grow Wellington, says that craft beer’s future is
“on the up and up”.
“From its origins 10 years ago, the region’s craft brewing industry has grown to contribute more than $12.3 million to
Wellington’s economy in 2013, and this is likely to double this year,” says Mr Quinn.
“What’s more, the craft beer scene is enhancing Wellington’s appeal as a cool and funky place to live.”
Ends