Beer is the most popular alcoholic drink in New Zealand, accounting for 63% of available alcohol for sale.[1] At around 64.7 litres per person per annum, New Zealand is ranked 27th in global beer consumption per capita. The vast majority of beer produced in New Zealand is a type of lager, either pale or amber in colour, and typically 4–5% alcohol by volume.[2]
Although the two largest breweries in New Zealand, Lion Nathan and DB Breweries, control almost 90% of sales by volume between them,[3] there are over 150[4] smaller craft breweries and brewpubs producing a vast range of beer styles, including many ales.[5][6]