Top Five New Zealand Lagers for the Overseas Tourist

You arrive off the plane from a long flight and get to your hotel room. You decide you are thirsty and want to try a kiwi lager. Here are some options. All prices in this guide are in New Zealand currency and are due to change.

Ice Lager, Lion Breweries: 4.7% ABV

A smooth relaxing beer which is suitable for someone looking for a lighter , fresher taste. Great value for money. Sold in 12 or 18 packs.

• Price: Anywhere from $12 to $16 per dozen or $20 per 18 pack of bottles.
• Rating: 8/10.

Light Ice, Lion Breweries: 2.5% ABV

This low alcohol beverage gives a clean, refreshing taste. There is very little mouth feel in this beer, but the flavor is still sweet. Very similar to Ice Lager on a lighter scale.

• Price: $7 to $11 per 6 pack of bottles.
• Rating: 7.5/10

Steinlager, Lion Breweries: 5% ABV

Steinlager is New Zealand's own and a proud sponsor of The All Blacks (New Zealand Rugby Team). A living legend on the kiwi beer scene . With a strong , dominating taste it is full of hops and gives plenty to the tongue. A definite try.

• Price: $10 to $12 per 6 pack of bottles or $20 per dozen. Have seen 15 packs for $20 as well.
• Rating: 9/10

Export Gold, DB Breweries: 4% ABV

Personally, my favorite. It's a full strength golden lager which is full of aroma. Very easy to drink in the summer and provides a pleasant taste to the mouth.

• Price: Can buy in cans or bottles. 6 packs $7 - $10 (Longneck bottles). 12 packs of bottles/cans $13 to $18, 15 packs $16 - $ 21, and 24 packs $26 - $33.
• Rating: 9.5/10

Flame, DB Breweries: 5.2%

If you are after a strong and value for money beer, this is it. Flame has a good following and is proffered to be drunk very cold. It has the taste of tropical fruits and good aroma with a definite kick. A good starter to night out on the town. It packs a punch!

• Price: $12-$15 per dozen of bottles or $20 per 16 bottles.
• Rating: 9/10.

There are plenty more New Zealand lagers that should be mentioned. In my next article I will give you a list of my Top 5 New Zealand Draught Beers. I hope this helps the average thirsty tourist to New Zealand.