Event Highlights:

Picture this – gliding along the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu with the sun on your face, the sounds of Clydesdale-drawn carriages and steam trains, the scent of fresh hops in the air – the promise of an unforgettable day ahead. Join us for a day of hop-harvesting fun at the stunning Garston Hops farm all finishing at Altitude Brewing for dinner & drinks. Rub shoulders with the Gladfield Malt crew, many fantastic domestic and international brewers and mingle with fellow beer enthusiasts. Learn the art of hop farming and fresh hop brewing straight from the pros while sipping on cold brews and devouring delicious hot grub.

Inclusions:

Return transport to Garston or Queenstown, depending on your starting point.
A scenic ride through history on the iconic Kingston Flyer.
A breathtaking cruise along Lake Wakatipu aboard Million Dollar Cruise.
An informative and engaging tour of Garston Hops farm, exploring the production facilities and hop gardens - witness the harvest in action!
Immerse yourself in the excitement as we load the Clydesdale-drawn carriage to transport the freshly harvested hops.
A delicious lunch crafted by the Athol Shop.
A mouthwatering dinner prepared by Smoke & Pickle.
Six premium craft beers to enjoy throughout the afternoon and evening.
Exclusive first access to a brand-new collaboration brew from Altitude Brewing and Mount Holly Beer, VT USA
An unforgettable experience, being part of something truly special.

Why You Can't Miss It:

Capture the essence of fresh hops in every moment, from harvest to dinner. Embark on a picturesque journey aboard the Million Dollar Cruise and The Kingston Flyer steam train, immersing yourself in New Zealand's stunning countryside. Forge connections with brewers, hop enthusiasts, and local food artisans while savouring the goodness of freshly harvested hops and celebrating the brews they create.

Hop-on the Hop Express:

Altitude Brewing has partnered with Garston Hops, situated in the picturesque landscapes of Garston, New Zealand, to source the freshest hops for their upcoming brews. What sets this harvest apart is the extraordinary journey these hops will take, thanks in part to sponsorship from Gladfield Malt, embracing an old-school charm that pays homage to New Zealand's rich history. Get ready to embark on a once-in-a-beer-lifetime journey with Gladfield Malt, Altitude Brewing, Garston Hops, Clydesdale Horse pulled wagon, The Kingston Flyer & The Million Dollar Cruise! We're throwing the biggest hop harvest party of the year, and you're invited!!!

After a quick coach/boat ride to Garston Hop Farm in the morning, you'll be taken on a farm tour to see where all the magic happens. Witness where the fresh hops are selected at the peak of their flavour. Then join in on their journey back to the brewery where they'll be added straight into the fermenter for this year's Fresh Hop beer. Once harvested you'll walk alongside as we transport the precious cargo by Clydesdale-drawn carriages to The Kingston Flyer steam train in Fairlight where lunch will be provided by Athol Shop. Then hop on the Hop Express where the train ride promises a nostalgic ride through the scenic beauty of New Zealand's countryside as it chugs along, carrying the harvest to Kingston. We'll then coach/boat back to the brewery for a post-harvest dinner courtesy of Smoke & Pickle. And, of course, beers along the way including a special collaboration beer by Altitude Brewing and Mount Holly Beer showcasing Garston Hops.

Hop Harvest Journey: 2025 Garston Hops Harvest Event – 29th of March
7:45 am: Meet at Altitude Brewing.
8 am: Group 1 will depart from Altitude Brewing via Million Dollar Cruise for Garston.
8:30 am: Group 2 will depart from Altitude Brewing via coach for Garston.
9:30 am: Arrive in Garston for a Farm Tour & Hop Harvest either by organised transport or via your own transport.
10:00 am: Farm and Factory tours around Garston Hops farm begin.
11:45 am: Load the Clydesdales and follow alongside to the edge of the farm.
12 pm: Bus to Fairlight for the hop arrival (Or if you want to continue on with the Clydesdales for their 8km trek, who are we to say no!).
1 pm: Feast on lunch provided by the Athol Shop.
1:30 pm: Watch as the horses arrive and the hops are loaded onto the train.
2:15 pm: Board the iconic Kingston Flyer Steam Train and chug your way to Kingston.
3:30 pm: Group 1 will depart via coach and Group 2 will depart via Million Dollar Cruise to head to Altitude Brewing.
5:30 pm: Indulge in a post-harvest dinner courtesy of Smoke & Pickle.
8 pm: The last bus departs returning guests back to Garston for those staying down there.

Details:

Date: March 29 2025 8 am - 8 pm
Cost: $215pp

So, mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready to hop on this unforgettable hop adventure with Altitude Brewing, Garston Hops and Gladfield Malt. Let's raise our glasses and toast to the spirit of fresh hops and good times!

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