Keg Beer Buying Guide For Kiwis

If you're looking to buy keg beer in NZ, there are a few things you'll need to know. Firstly, you'll need to decide on the size of the keg you require – common sizes include 4L, 5L, 19L, 20L, and 50L. You'll also need to choose the type of beer you want, with a range of different brands and varieties available. Once you've made your selection, you can purchase your keg beer online or from a specialist retailer. Some companies offer rental services for beer pouring systems and gas bottles, which can be useful if you're hosting an event or party. It's important to note that keg beer is typically not delivered, so you'll need to arrange your own transport. When it comes to payment, most companies accept debit and credit cards, but make sure to check beforehand.

Where to buy keg beer in NZ

If you're looking to buy keg beer in New Zealand, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can explore well-known liquor stores such as Liquor Legends, which has three retail stores in Auckland. They offer a wide range of beer options, including craft beer, and provide rental services for beer dispensing systems, making it a convenient choice for events and parties.

Another option is to check out Kereru Brewing, which offers wholesale memberships for purchasing beer kegs. They have a variety of beers available in 20L kegs, including porter, pilsner, lager, and IPA options.

For those interested in home-brewing, League of Brewers is a great choice. They offer a range of kegging supplies and accessories, allowing you to keg and carbonate your own beer. You can find various keg sizes and starter kits to suit your needs.

Additionally, Hancocks is a licensed trade supplier that offers a range of craft beers in kegs. They cater to bars, restaurants, and events, providing efficient dispensing options for draft beer.

Lastly, WilliamsWarn is another potential supplier, although they do not provide specific details about their keg offerings on their website.

Remember to review the websites and contact these suppliers directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding their keg beer offerings and availability in New Zealand.

Costs of keg beer in NZ

The cost of keg beer in New Zealand varies depending on the brand, type of beer, and volume of the keg. On average, a 50-litre keg of beer costs around $320, excluding GST and freight. However, prices can range from $235 to $929 for a 20-litre keg.

For example, Ground Up Brewing offers a variety of 50-litre kegs priced at $320 each, excluding GST and freight. In contrast, Kereru Brewing's 20-litre kegs range in price from $235 to $929, with most options falling between $240 and $285.

It's important to note that some companies may charge additional fees for rental, delivery, and deposit on the kegs and dispensing equipment. For instance, Liquor Legends charges a rental fee of $100 for their beer pouring system and gas bottle, which covers up to 3 days of use. They also require a refundable deposit of $300 to cover any potential replacement costs.

When purchasing keg beer, it's essential to consider the volume of beer needed and the associated costs per glass or bottle. A 20-litre keg typically yields around 60 glasses or bottles, while a 50-litre keg can provide up to 150 glasses or bottles.

Additionally, some companies offer discounts or special promotions that can impact the overall cost of keg beer. For example, Morley & Co provides special discount codes to members of their mailing list, allowing customers to save 10% on their orders.

Pick-up or delivery options

When it comes to buying keg beer in New Zealand, there are a variety of pick-up and delivery options available. Many companies offer online ordering and delivery services, providing convenience and ease for customers. Here is an overview of the different options:

Pick-up Options:

Some retailers, such as Liquor Legends, have physical retail stores where customers can pick up their keg beer purchases. Liquor Legends, for example, has three retail stores in the wider Auckland area that are open 7 days a week. They offer a range of beer, RTD, wines, and spirits at competitive prices.

Delivery Options:

Several companies provide delivery services for keg beer purchases, often offering fast and efficient delivery times. For instance, Liquor Legends offers free nationwide delivery for spirits and wines over $200, although they do not provide delivery for kegs, which must be picked up in-store.

On the other hand, iKegger NZ offers a range of mini kegs and growlers with taps, providing a convenient way to store and transport beer. They also have various tapping systems and accessories available for purchase. iKegger NZ provides delivery services, ensuring that customers can enjoy their products from the comfort of their homes.

Kereru Brewing is another company that provides delivery options for their 20L kegs. They offer wholesale beer sales, which are perfect for smaller venues and faster turnover of beers on tap.

Additionally, Morley & Co. is a supplier of keg beer and cider, offering a range of options from Hallertau and Sawmill Brewery. They can help customers determine the right amount of keg beer needed for their functions and facilitate the ordering process with the supplier.

In conclusion, whether you're looking for pick-up or delivery options for keg beer in New Zealand, there are numerous retailers and suppliers available to meet your needs. From physical retail stores to online ordering and delivery services, you can easily get your hands on some refreshing keg beer for your next event or special occasion.

Renting a beer pouring system

Cost

The cost of renting a beer pouring system can vary depending on the company and the duration of the rental. For example, Liquor Legends charges $100 for a beer pouring system and gas bottle rental for up to 3 days. They also require a refundable deposit of $300 to cover the cost of replacement of the system.

Setup and Installation

Most beer pouring systems are easy to set up and only take a few minutes. For example, the Lindr system from FreePour is user-friendly and can be set up by plugging it in, hooking up the key coupler, turning on the integrated air pump, and pouring the perfect beer.

Maintenance and Support

When renting a beer pouring system, it is important to consider the maintenance and support provided by the company. Some companies, such as Beer Systems & Maintenance, offer periodic maintenance and breakdown service support for their equipment. This can ensure that you have a hassle-free experience when using the beer pouring system.

Pickup and Delivery

Some companies, like Liquor Legends, may require you to pick up the beer pouring system and equipment from their store. Others may offer delivery services for an additional cost. It is important to check with the company about the pickup and delivery options before renting the system.

Compatibility

When renting a beer pouring system, make sure to check the compatibility with different keg sizes. For example, the Lindr system from FreePour can be connected to any size keg, providing versatility and convenience.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you have a positive experience when renting a beer pouring system in New Zealand. Whether you are hosting an event or simply enjoying beer with friends, a rented beer pouring system can provide you with chilled and perfectly poured beer.

Keg sizes and types

Kegs come in a variety of sizes, with the most common options being 20L, 30L, and 50L. These sizes are typically used for beer, cider, and wine. Some companies also offer smaller kegs, such as 5L, 8L, and 9.5L, which are perfect for those who want a more portable option that can fit into most coolers or refrigerators.

The 20L keg is a popular choice for smaller venues and faster turnover of beers on tap. It can serve approximately 60 glasses/bottles, making it a good option for those who want a moderate amount of beverage. The 30L keg can serve around 90 glasses/bottles, while the 50L keg can serve about 150 glasses/bottles, making these larger options better suited for bigger events or gatherings.

Kegs also come in different types, such as commercial stainless steel kegs, mini kegs, and ball lock kegs. Commercial stainless steel kegs are designed for storing and dispensing beer, while mini kegs are smaller, more portable options that can be used for a variety of beverages, including beer, cocktails, and cold brew coffee. Ball lock kegs, on the other hand, are designed for homebrewers and typically come with gas in and beer out posts, as well as a lid with a pressure relief valve.

When choosing a keg, it's important to consider the size of your event or gathering, the type of beverage you want to serve, and the compatibility of the keg with your dispensing system. Additionally, don't forget to factor in the cost of the keg, as well as any additional equipment you may need, such as a CO2 gas bottle or a tapping system.

Frequently asked questions