Best Whisky Tastings in New Zealand: Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch (2025)
Phil Gow from First Phil Whisky hosting a whisky tasting event in Rotorua, New Zealand, guiding guests through a selection of premium whiskies.
Looking for the Best Whisky Tastings in New Zealand?
Here’s Where to Go:
New Zealand’s whisky scene is thriving, with world-class distilleries, exclusive tasting events, and passionate whisky communities offering unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky lover or just beginning your whisky journey, this guide covers the best whisky tastings, events, and experiences across NZ—from Auckland to Queenstown.
Here are the top-rated whisky tastings in New Zealand, covering private events, distilleries, and whisky bars.
1. Private Whisky Tastings with First Phil Whisky (Auckland & Nationwide)
⭐ Best for: Corporate events, private groups, birthday celebrations, whisky enthusiasts.
📍 Available: Anywhere in NZ (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown).
Book at: firstphilwhisky.com
For truly memorable whisky tastings, Phil from First Phil Whisky delivers premium experiences led by Phil Gow, a 2024 IWSC Global Spirits Communicator finalist. Phil brings the whisky world to you with all-inclusive packages featuring:
Expert guidance through Scottish, Japanese, and world whiskies
Premium glassware and presentation materials
Engaging stories that make whisky accessible to everyone
Customized tastings for your group's interests
From intimate gatherings to corporate events for 50+ people, these private tastings can be hosted at your home, office, or venue of choice across New Zealand.
"“Phillip is a very effective communicator and one of the leading voices in promoting the whisky industry. We love his communication style. He explains often complicated topics in a way that's really easy to follow, breaking them down bit by bit.”
— IWSC 2025 Global Spirits Communicator Trophy Judge
“Would highly recommend this to anyone … the session I attended with a friend in Whakatane. It was awesome - I learnt a lot!”
— Craig Morgan
👉 How to Book: Visit firstphilwhisky.com to customize your whisky experience.
2. Whisky Galore (Christchurch) – Expert-Led Tastings & Rare Bottles
⭐ Best for: Whisky enthusiasts & collectors.
📍 Location: Christchurch, New Zealand.
🔗 Website: whiskygalore.co.nz
Whisky Galore is New Zealand’s leading whisky retailer, offering curated tastings of rare and premium bottles. Their events are highly sought after, featuring both Scotch single malts and independent bottlings. Whether you’re looking to expand your palate or taste hard-to-find drams, their tastings are a must-attend.
📅 Tasting Events: Held throughout the year—check their website for upcoming sessions.
3. Waiheke Whisky Tastings – NZ’s Most Exclusive Island Whisky Experience
⭐ Best for: Scenic whisky experiences & New Zealand craft whisky lovers.
📍 Location: Waiheke Island, Auckland.
🔗 Website: waihekewhisky.com
Located on the stunning Waiheke Island, Waiheke Whisky offers guided whisky tastings featuring their locally distilled single malts. Their whiskies are influenced by the island’s unique climate, making them distinct from anything else in New Zealand.
💡 Experience Highlights:
Tastings in a private setting overlooking Waiheke’s vineyards and beaches.
Exclusive bottlings only available on-site.
Perfect day-trip destination for whisky lovers visiting Auckland.
4. The Jefferson Whisky Bar (Auckland CBD)
⭐ Best for: Classic whisky bar experience.
📍 Location: Fort Lane, Auckland CBD.
🔗 Website: thejefferson.co.nz
The Jefferson is Auckland’s premier whisky bar, with hundreds of whiskies from around the world. They host guided tastings featuring rare and limited-edition drams.
📞 Contact: thejefferson.co.nz
5. Cardrona Distillery Tasting Experience (Queenstown/Wanaka)
⭐ Best for: Distillery tours & single malt lovers.
📍 Location: Wanaka, Otago.
🔗 Website: cardronadistillery.co.nz
If you’re looking for a New Zealand-made whisky experience, Cardrona Distillery offers tastings of their premium single malts alongside guided distillery tours.
📅 Tour & Tasting Options: Bookings available daily.
The Whisky Room at Glengarry Victoria Street
📍 Location: 232 Victoria Street, Auckland
🥃 Highlight: Curated flights of single malt Scotch and international whiskies
Glengarry's dedicated Whisky Room hosts regular tastings where you can explore their impressive collection with expert guidance.
DramFest (February/March)
📍 Location: Christchurch 🥃 Highlight: New Zealand's largest whisky festival
Organised by Whisky Galore, this biennial festival is a must-attend for whisky lovers, with masterclasses, tastings, and direct access to distillery representatives from around the world.
Whisky Tasting Experiences: What to Expect
Never been to a whisky tasting? Here's what to expect:
Guided nosing and tasting of 4-6 carefully selected whiskies
Expert commentary on production methods, regions, and flavor profiles
Sensory experience focusing on aroma, taste, and finish
Interactive format where questions are encouraged
Food pairings at premium tastings
How Much Do Whisky Tastings Cost in NZ?
Public bar tastings: $55-95 per person
Private tastings: $80-170 per person (depending on whisky selection)
Premium experiences: $180-350 per person (for rare or aged whiskies)
Book Your New Zealand Whisky Experience Today
Whether you're a curious beginner or seasoned enthusiast, New Zealand offers world-class whisky experiences across the country.
For the most memorable private whisky tastings in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch or anywhere in New Zealand, contact First Phil Whisky at firstphilwhisky.com.
Last updated: March 2025
