The Beer Spot presents
New Zealand's
Homebrew Championships
Hosted by: River Valley Amateur Wine Makers and Brewers Guild
Claim your spot in the 2025 Homebrew Championships.
Master the craft, claim the cup
Enter New Zealand’s top amateur competition.
The 2025 Amateur Winemakers and Brewers Championships is the ultimate test of your craft, and this year, we’re turning up the heat. For the first time, spirit makers can enter too. Whether you’re brewing beer, crafting wine, or distilling gin, whiskey, rum or vodka — your place is here.
Run by the National Federation (FAWAB), this is the biggest stage in the country for passionate homebrewers. You’ll compete with the best, be judged by experts, and stand a chance to win prizes and national recognition.
Entries must meet championship standards — so make sure to check the rules and special conditions of entry below before submitting.
Are you ready to master the craft? Raise your glass and stake your claim in the 2025 Homebrew Championships.
The Homebrewing Championships
The NZ Homebrew Champs is a prestigious biennial competition held every 2 years across New Zealand, celebrating the art and science of homebrewing. Founded in 1987, the competition provides a platform for passionate homebrewers to showcase their skills, receive expert feedback, and compete for top honours in various beer styles.
Our mission is to support and elevate homebrewing enthusiasts, giving them the opportunity to take their creations from humble garage experiments to award-winning brews. Whether you’re a seasoned brewer or just starting out, the NZ Homebrew Champs is your chance to gain recognition, refine your craft, and join a thriving community of beer lovers.
2023 Championship Winners
Beer of Show: Gavin Keyworth
River Valley Club
Best Wine of Show: Paul Byford
River Valley Club
Best Liqueur of Show: Mike Zame
Gisborne Club
Raise a glass to our sponsors
The NZ Homebrew Champs wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. Their generosity helps us celebrate the art and science of homebrewing, providing a platform for passionate brewers to showcase their skills, receive expert feedback, and compete for top honours.
Thanks to their commitment, we can continue to foster a thriving community of homebrewers, inspiring both newcomers and seasoned brewers to push the boundaries of their craft. Their support ensures that this prestigious competition remains a highlight of the homebrewing calendar.
So, let’s raise a glass in appreciation – cheers to our sponsors for making it all possible!
Enjoy homebrew? Become a judge
Are you a seasoned pro when it comes to beer tasting? Join us as a judge for the Homebrew Championships 2025, where you’ll have the chance to sample a wide range of unique homebrews and provide expert feedback.
Judges play a crucial role in selecting the best brews, helping to recognise and celebrate top-tier homebrewing talent. If you have a passion for craft beer and a keen sense of taste, we want to hear from you!
Sign up now to be part of the ultimate homebrew competition experience!
If you are a qualified BJCP judge or similar, and would like to judge on the day, please contact Peter Speedy on pspeedy@gmail.com There is a vetting process, so put your best foot forward.
