New Zealand Hops

New Zealand hops are used in everything from crisp lagers and pale ales to hop-forward IPAs. Each variety contributes its own balance of aroma, flavour and bitterness, giving home brewers plenty of scope to shape a recipe or add character to a beer kit.

Choosing hops for your brew

• Compare versatile varieties such as Taiheke and Wakatu for different recipe styles.
• Explore Rākau when you want another distinctive New Zealand option for flavour and aroma additions.
• Consider Waimea when your recipe calls for a suitable NZ hop with useful bittering potential.
• Check the listed alpha-acid level and your recipe’s addition times before calculating how much to use.

Early-boil additions generally contribute more bitterness, while later additions and dry hopping retain more aroma. Store unused hops cold and well sealed to help preserve their character.