New Zealand’s top homebrewers and winemakers have been crowned at the 2025 National Competition, where nearly 400 entries competed for medals, major prizes, and even a chance to go commercial.
The NZ Amateur Winemakers and Brewers Federation National Competition was held in Huapai, Northwest Auckland, from the 10-12 October, 2025.
The event was hosted by the River Valley Amateur Winemakers and Brewers Guild and judges sniffed and tasted their way through almost 400 entries across all categories of beer, wine, spirits and liqueurs, awarding 98 Bronze, 80 Silver and 30 Gold Medals.
Best Beer of the Show was won by craft beer enthusiast Jim Batten of the Hawke’s Bay Club.
Batten’s winning Double IPA will be brewed commercially and sold in The Beer Spot locations throughout Auckland.
Best Wine of the Show was made by Brian Henderson of the Hawke’s Bay Club and is a Cabernet Sauvignon & 5% Cabernet Franc.
This year saw a new award for the Novice Brewer, which was won by new homebrewer Michael Macdonald of the Hawke’s Bay Club.
“Home brewing is booming in New Zealand [and] events like this showcase the incredible talent and passion in our community,” says The Federation President, Paul Byford.
To find your local homebrewing or winemaking club, click here.
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Dining and Cooking