Beers at the Basin

Beamers and batsmen have been replaced with craft beers and breweries at the iconic, Basin Reserve, for Beers at the Basin. This new one-day festival is bringing together some the country’s finest craft breweries, local wineries, street food merchants and musicians in what is surely something both cricket fans and cricket carpers can agree is a great thing.

This is just a taste of what’s on offer:

Music – Tunes of I

If you like Fat Freddy’s Drop, then this seven piece ensemble should be on your to-see list. Sprouting from jazz school beginnings, Tunes of I are known for their robust live performances. With mean skills and tight musicianship, they meld dub, roots, soul and psychedelia into a unique and seamless sound.

Beer – Tuatara

The legends at Tuatara Brewing have crafted New Zealandness and bottled it. Most of their beers are more than drinkable, but if you’re into something crisp, firm bodied with notes of citrus – go for the Moteureka. Made using 100% local hops, this is a 100% New Zealand pilsner.

Wine – Tiki

This indigenous NZ Māori wine producer is committed to sustainable wine-growing. Their delicious Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc will be on offer… so, you might as well try them all.

Cider – Crooked

A cider is the best way to start the day when it’s sunny. That’s a fact. And when the cider ticks the ‘no added sugar, 100% NZ apples, locally-sourced fruit and gluten free’ box, it’s even better. There’s Apple Pure & Natural and Apple with Black Currant, but we recommend the Real Ginger Root Cider.

Food – The Evil Stepson Island Grill

This award-winning food truck offers a very eclectic spread of international street foods with a South Pacific Flair. Treat yourself to Peruvian cerviche, Texas chilli mince fries and some buttermilk southern fried chicken tenders with peach, maple and chilli glaze.

Beers at the Basin will take place December 9 at Basin Reserve from 11am – 7pm.

words by niall roeder.