Garage Project

Whether on tap, from the bottle or in a can, Garage Project is becoming a beverage everyone must taste before they consider themselves well versed in Wellington’s finest craft beers. In the heart of Aro Valley you can find exactly where they make these brews, and just like Aro Valley, the place is a buzz with style, creativity and casual coolness.

Ian, Jos and Pete, the three brewers responsible for Garage Project sought their success in an old run down petrol station. They transformed the site into what is now a Wellington landmark where they brew and sell their products. Staff are well educated in each drop and are eager to help you decide on what brew suits you best. Don't be fooled when you walk in though, this is not a place to drink and mingle for a long period of time; their off site license means that although you are welcome to have a few taste testers, you have to take your drink home before indulging. They have 8 beers on tap which change regularly enough to keep things interesting. Flagons are available in store for $2 or you can bring your own along to fill up. In the cellar door their 650ml bottled beer ranges from $11 to $14 and are sold as single bottles. Their 330ml cans range from $5 to $7 and their mixed 6 is priced at $29. If you feel like a social setting with one of these brews in hand, I suggest popping into any of the local craft beer bars. The ever growing popularity of Garage Project means there will surely be at least one of their brews available.

A selection of t-shirts and posters available make perfect gifts for beer lovers and Wellington style aficionados. I was fascinated by the rad art work of death from above ($14 for 650ml) and the delicious taste of Vietnamese mint, lime and chili only helped reinforce my decision to buy it.