Waterfront offers hop heaven

ROBERT KITCHIN/Dominion Post

DAS BOOT! Beer Fest event co-ordinator Madeline Erkkila and promoter Andrew Somervell chill out in the beer chilling container ahead of the Beer festival at Waitangi Park in Wellington.

Relevant offers

Food & Wine

Alex James - what are you playing at? Raw food: what's not to love? Summery sangria packs a punch Homemade icecream a peachy pud Lentil patties a meat-free delight The curious allure of very sharp knives Dumplings for Chinese New Year The great American snack food marathon Use your noodle High carb breakfasts boost brainpower

Beer drinkers will be in "Rogue Hop" heaven from noon onwards at Waitangi Park on the Wellington waterfront this afternoon.

On offer at The Liquorland New Zealand Beer Festival, dubbed "anti-recession day", will be more than 70 beers from more than 25 breweries.

"Rogue Hop", a pilsener stubbie from the Christchurch brewery of Carl Harrington, will be among them.

Harrington's Brewery employs 65 people and brews 24 different beers.

"We're a big little brewery. This event is all about brewers showcasing their products," Mr Harrington said.

About 2000 people have pre-bought tickets for an event intended to celebrate beer, food, music and possibly "summer".

The possibility of bad weather has also been planned for, according to event co-ordinator Madeline Erkkila.

A large marquee has been erected to protect patrons from forecast wind and rain. "The fesitival is a great opportunity to dust off the doom and gloom and celebrate," Ms Erkkila said.

- © Fairfax NZ News