The Matakana Coast App Presents: Brew of Islands 2025 – A Celebration of Craft, Culture, and Community

Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025

Location: Kerikeri, Bay of Islands

The Matakana Coast App proudly supports one of Northland’s most anticipated events – Brew of Islands 2025. This one-day festival offers two immersive sessions filled with exceptional craft beer, electrifying live music, and gourmet street food, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Islands. It's the ultimate winter gathering for lovers of great taste and good times.

Now in its latest edition, Brew of Islands returns with renewed vibrancy, showcasing the very best of Aotearoa’s craft brewing scene. Eight standout breweries from across the North Island will be featured, each bringing a distinct flavour and flair. Local icons such as PhatHouse Brewing Co., brewed on-site in the Bay, and Kainui Brew Co. of Kerikeri, will be joined by regional innovators including Matakana’s very own 8 Wired, alongside heavy-hitters like Garage Project, Parrotdog, and Double Vision Brewing Co. from Wellington, McLeod’s Brewery of Waipu, and Urbanaut from Auckland. Together, they offer a diverse and dynamic showcase for every palate—from hop-forward to sour, classic to bold.

To complement the brews, attendees will enjoy a feast of flavours from Northland’s top street food artisans. Making his festival debut is American pitmaster Mat Fulton of Wingless Angel, bringing his legendary low’n’slow BBQ. Newcomers Taco Bandit join with their handcrafted tortillas and rich birria, while crowd favourites Northland Fine Foods return with their renowned bratwurst. Seafood lovers will savour Tasty Tucker’s fresh oysters and creamy paua, while local legend Mrs Miller delights with her iconic mussel fritters.

Superhero Second Line

The experience is further elevated with a robust lineup of live music and performance. The Live Hall will host the likes of Superhero Second Line, Albi & The Wolves, Kōhia, and Merv Pinny, delivering soul-stirring sounds from brass-fuelled funk to indie-folk and roots-reggae. Meanwhile, the Nightclub Zone will pulse into the evening with high-energy sets from DJs Rhys, French Kiss, Sye, and PAWS, accompanied by mesmerising visual displays.

Albi & The Wolves

Roaming entertainment returns as well, with the inimitable Conrad Comb and his cast of eccentric characters ensuring delightful surprises throughout the day.

For those seeking a touch of refinement beyond the hops, Kindred Spirits will be serving artisanal cocktails and mocktails, while the Gin Bar by Black Collar Distillery offers botanically inspired delights for discerning gin enthusiasts.

Kohia

With tickets on sale now, Brew of Islands 2025 promises a vibrant celebration of Northland’s finest craft, culture, and community. Whether you're a beer aficionado, a foodie, or simply in search of winter revelry in a picturesque coastal setting, this is an event not to be missed.

It’s the perfect way to raise a glass before Dry July!

Available now from The Turner Centre in Kerikeri (in person) and online via iTicket

Website: www.brewofislands.co.nz