New Zealand has developed unique varieties of hops that are in strong demand by the craft brewing industry - both locally and in export markets
The hops sector in New Zealand enjoyed a period of high growth from circa 2010 to 2020, especially in the last five years of the decade. This was fuelled by a steep rise in the number of craft breweries and micro-breweries globally. However, research undertaken by NZTE in 2023 has confirmed that the rapid growth of new craft and micro-brewery establishments has peaked globally, although regional trends differ.
While there is currently a slowing of growth in the hops market caused by oversupply, inflation and a generally weak economic environment, local and global buyers will continue to favour growers who can offer consistent high-quality products.
Therefore, there is an opportunity for New Zealand growers to claim more of the global market (currently around 3%), by producing high-quality product, unique flavour profiles, supply chain efficiencies and processing innovations.
Expanding production from the Nelson and Tasman districts into places like Taranaki, for example, offers a variety of benefits including mitigating risk by decentralising production, developing different flavour/aromas, new marketing narratives, and a robust industry.
Our guide for small and independent hop growers
Read our Industry Paper, published in March 2024, that provides advice to small and independent hop growers across the country looking to scale up from pilot scale plots to financially viable hop gardens.
Hop sector turnover and growth targets
Hops have been grown in New Zealand for beer production since the 1840s. This initially occurred in several regions but over the past 150 years the hops industry has become concentrated in the Tasman and Nelson Districts where there are ideal growing conditions.
The industry initially developed to provide hops for local production of beer. Over the past 50 years the hops industry has become increasingly focused on exports and New Zealand grown hops now compete against hops grown around the world.
Please note: All figures correct as of 2022.
NZ export target for 2027
$132m Target for New Zealand hops industry group, HāpiAnnual NZ production of hops
1,500t ApproximatelyPercentage of locally grown hops exported
85% Worth around $40m annuallyPercentage of locally grown hops exported
85% Worth around $40m annuallyOur blueprint for hops in Taranaki
This blueprint provides an overview for commercial production and processing of hops and their value chain in Taranaki, and an indication of potential returns.
Please note: This blueprint was produced in 2022.
Find out if your land is suitable for hops
Download the PDF below or view our interactive GIS map (enter your address to get a more accurate understanding of the suitability of your land).
Please note: Maps are indicative only. Further research and professional advice should be sought if you wish to pursue this opportunity further.
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