The Best NZ Gin Brands You Need to Try

The Best NZ Gin Brands You Need to Try

New Zealand's craft spirit industry is booming, and nowhere is this more evident than in the world of gin. Our country is home to some incredible distilleries producing unique and world-class gins, each with its own distinct flavors and stories. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or just starting your journey, here are some of the best NZ gin brands you absolutely need to try.

1. Rifters Gin

Based in Central Otago, Rifters Gin captures the essence of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes. Known for its clean and crisp flavour profiles, Rifters uses native botanicals like kawakawa and Douglas fir, creating a gin that's both refreshing and distinctly Kiwi. Their Gold Medal-winning Quartz Gin is a standout that you don’t want to miss.

Rifters Quartz Gin

  • A botanical gin, small batch distilled.
  • Infused with Elderberries & Mint Tips, along with locally foraged Wild Thyme, Manuka, and Douglas Fir.
  • Experience eucalypt and citrus high notes with a smooth and long herbaceous juniper finish.
Rifters Quartz Gin

2. Herrick Creek Moose Lake Gin

Herrick Creek's Moose Lake Gin is a celebration of bold flavours and expert craftsmanship. Made in Christchurch, this whey-based gin offers a smooth and pure taste, using only juniper berries to craft a refreshing simplicity.

Moose Lake New Zealand Dry Gin

  • 500ml | 40% ABV | Made 100% in New Zealand.
  • Gold Medal at the 2024 NZ Spirits Awards.
  • A juniper-forward gin distilled with simplicity in mind.
  • Features "louching" and "flocc" effects due to the high concentration of juniper oils—proof of its bold flavour.
Herrick Creek Moose Lake New Zealand Dry Gin

3. Kiwi Spirits Distillery

Nestled in Golden Bay, Kiwi Spirits Distillery creates handcrafted gins with a focus on sustainability and local ingredients. Their botanicals are carefully sourced, resulting in gins that are both flavourful and environmentally conscious. 

Kiwi Spirits Greenstone Gin

  • Crafted with locally foraged Kahikatea and Totara.
  • Features berries, nibs, orange blossoms, and juniper.
  • Offers undertones of citrus, peppercorns, and spices with a long, smooth finish.

4. Bluff Gin

Inspired by the rugged beauty of Bluff and the Southland region, Bluff Gin is a true reflection of its roots. This gin incorporates foraged ingredients from the local environment, creating a rich and earthy profile. Perfect for sipping neat or as part of a classic gin cocktail, Bluff Gin is as authentic as it gets.

Bluff Gin

  • A classical London Dry Gin crafted with a Kiwi twist.
  • Pays homage to the history of protecting New Zealand’s Southern Seas.
  • Offers an unforgettable taste of the Foveaux Strait region.
Bluff London Dry Gin

5. Mothers Ruined Gin

Mothers Ruined Gin takes pride in its small-batch production and attention to detail. Their range includes unique gins crafted with bold botanicals and a touch of whimsy. They also use a 100% recyclable bottle made from cardboard!

Highlights

  • Original Gin: A dreamy, creamy London Dry with vanilla, pineapple, and coconut. Gold Medal at the 2023 NZ Spirits Awards.
  • Citrus Gold Gin: A colour-changing gin with sweet grapefruit and Pink Lady apple.
  • Ginger Emerald Gin: Features ginger and caramel with a lilac-pink tonic transformation. Multiple awards.
  • Fruity Ruby Gin: Raspberry, rose, and Pink Lady apple create a floral and fruity experience.

6. Clarity Gin

Clarity Gin is celebrated for its vibrant and balanced profiles. Produced in small batches, this gin is perfect for those who enjoy a classic gin with a contemporary twist.

Clarity Dry Gin

  • Botanicals: Juniper, cassia bark, lemon peel, cardamom pods, and more.
  • Awards: Gold Medal at NZ Small Batch Gin Awards 2024, Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2023.

Clarity 2023 Gin

  • Flavour profile: Naturally sweeter gin with crisp citrus notes.
  • Designed for refreshing summer drinks.
  • Awards: Gold Medal at London Spirits Competition 2024, Best in Show by Country.

7. Humdinger Gin

Based in Geraldine, Humdinger Gin is all about bold flavours and innovative combinations. Their gins are made with precision and a touch of playfulness, resulting in a product that stands out in the crowd. Whether you're trying their signature Classic Dry or the intriguing Citrus Notes, Humdinger is guaranteed to impress.

Humdinger Dry Gin

Explore the World of NZ Gin

New Zealand's gin scene offers a diversity of flavors and styles that reflect the beauty and creativity of our country. These seven gin brands are just the beginning—each sip tells a story, and every bottle brings something special to the table. Whether you prefer your gin in a classic G&T or as part of a creative cocktail, these brands will elevate your drinking experience.

Have a favourite NZ gin that’s not on this list? Share it with us in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your recommendations!

Back to blog