This month, many Kiwis participate in Dry July, challenging themselves to go alcohol-free and raise funds for New Zealanders affected by cancer.

The funds raised by Dry July 2021 participants will help Look Good Feel Better NZ, Bowel Cancer NZ, PINC & STEEL NZ and Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand improve the comfort, care and well-being of people affected by cancer.

Luckily, we have plenty of local alcohol-free alternatives in Matakana that make abstaining a breeze. 

Wild Delicious is a local brand, providing delicious fermented drinks. For an evening treat, the Wild Delicious Strawberry and Hibiscus Shrub added to some soda water makes for a refreshing and invigorating non-alcoholic drink. It can be used as a base for drinks, and in cooking or salad dressings. If you want to grab a bottle, you can order it from https://wilddelicious.co.nz/, or pick some up from the Point Wells store or the Matakana Village Farmers Markets on Saturday morning.

Kombucha is a popular alternative for those looking to cut back on the booze, and Daily Organics Kombucha is fermented, brewed, and bottled right here in Matakana. Daily Organics Kombucha is carefully handmade in small batches by local people who love the art of brewing, and you can taste it in every sip. Their winter brew is a vibrant, rich blend of aromatic chai spices and ginger with black tea that delivers a balanced warming character for those colder months, and is perfect to get you through Dry July. You can find Daily Organics at the Matakana Village farmers Market every Saturday, or in supermarkets across New Zealand.

If you're feeling a little bit fancy and want to treat yourself to a mocktail, head to Smiths bar in the Matakana Country park. You won't even miss alcoholic cocktails. The Seasonal Soda is made with Seedlip Garden (an alcohol free spirit), seasonal cordial, and soda, for a botanical delight that won't leave you feeling dusty. The Mile High Spritz is made with Lyres no alcohol spirits and Italian spritz.

The Leigh Sawmill Cafe is also on board with Dry July, serving a selection of alcohol-free mocktails to fuel all your weekend boogies.

Having a Dry July has great health benefits. Each year, participants report sleeping better, having more energy and productivity, and of course, no hangovers. So, you're not only helping others, you're helping yourself. It's a win-win!