The Beer Spot Whangaparāoa

Supporting small independent, NZ producers is something that new Beer Spot Whangaparāoa owner Steve Piner particularly values.

“All 42 beer and 42 wines we have on tap here are from NZ producers,” Steve says. “Many small operators struggle to get taps in big establishments, but Beer Spot supports Kiwi operators whenever possible.”

Steve took over the local Beer Spot on June 1. Until then he’d been enjoying semi-retirement from a career in construction, and focusing on his wife Marewa’s research work.

“I think buying this business was a way to keep me out of trouble,” he says. 

Marewa is co-owner, and daughter Tiraha works there too.

Steve already knew the place well, having been a customer and also worked on the fitout at other Beer Spots.

 While he says he is no beer or wine nerd, Steve knows what he likes. And the relaxed vibe at Beer Spot Whangaparāoa suits him well. He plans to stick with the proven formula, which includes rotating food trucks (local producers again) which keeps things interesting.

“We can match beer or wine to whatever the food truck of the week has on offer,” he says. “The staff are young and passionate about the business. They are happy to make recommendations and provide samples of something a customer may not have tried before.” Beer, cider and wine “flights” – a range of samples on a board – are also popular.

More events, including quiz nights and live music will be a focus, Steve says, along with tastings of new wines and beers.

“It attracts families, workers with laptops and people meeting or celebrating. That welcoming environment is key for us.”

Business Directory: The Beer Spot Whangaparaoa