Food & Dining

Whangamata Liquor Stores & Wine

Whangamata liquor stores and wine
Image: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA licence

Liquor Stores in Whangamata

Whangamata has liquor store options for stocking up on beer, wine and spirits during your holiday. Whether you are after a case of craft beer for the bach, a bottle of New Zealand sauvignon blanc for dinner, or spirits for a summer cocktail, the local bottle stores have you covered. Prices and selection are comparable to what you would find in larger centres.

Where to Buy Alcohol

Liquor Stores

Whangamata’s liquor stores are located on or near Port Road. They stock a full range of beer, wine, spirits, cider, RTDs (ready-to-drink) and non-alcoholic options. The stores carry both New Zealand and imported products, with a good selection of local and regional wines and craft beers.

Supermarket

New World Whangamata also sells beer and wine (but not spirits, as per New Zealand licensing laws). The supermarket wine selection is decent and convenient for picking up a bottle alongside your groceries.

What to Try

New Zealand Wine

  • Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc — New Zealand’s most famous wine, crisp and refreshing
  • Central Otago Pinot Noir — elegant and aromatic
  • Hawke’s Bay Chardonnay — rich and complex
  • Gisborne Rosé — perfect for summer sipping

Craft Beer

New Zealand’s craft beer scene is thriving, and Whangamata’s liquor stores stock a good range of local and regional craft breweries. Look for Coromandel-area breweries and popular New Zealand brands. A selection of craft beers from the fridge is a great way to sample what the country has to offer.

Opening Hours

Liquor stores in Whangamata typically open from late morning through to evening. Hours may extend during peak summer season to meet holiday demand. New Zealand licensing laws restrict the hours during which alcohol can be sold — stores generally cannot sell alcohol before 7am or after 11pm.

Tips

  • Stock up when you arrive — popular items sell out during peak season
  • Try New Zealand wines and craft beers for a local experience
  • The supermarket is convenient for beer and wine alongside groceries
  • Drink responsibly and in moderation
  • If you are hosting a bach party, order ahead for large quantities
  • ID is required if you look under 25

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a bottle store in Whangamata?

Yes, Whangamata has liquor stores on or near Port Road stocking beer, wine, spirits and more.

Can I buy alcohol at New World Whangamata?

Yes, New World sells beer and wine. Spirits are only available from licensed liquor stores.

What time do liquor stores close in Whangamata?

Hours vary but typically close in the evening. Check with individual stores for current times, especially during the holiday season.

Written by

Whangamata News Team

The Whangamata News Team brings you the latest local news, surf reports, events, and community stories from Whangamata and the Coromandel Peninsula. Our writers live and breathe the beach town lifestyle, covering everything from weekend markets to council decisions, real estate trends to the best surf breaks. We are passionate about keeping our community informed and connected.