Moa mounts charge on Christchurch events

As Marlburians head away for holidays or down south for big events, they’ll find more local drink options than ever.

Marlborough-based Moa Brewing Company has launched its Southern Alps low-carb lager and relaunched its HeyHey ready-to-drink range, while also being named the preferred beverage partner for Christchurch’s main event centres.

Southern Alps and its 0% companion will lead the partnership at venues including One NZ Stadium, Apollo Projects Stadium and Wolfbrook Arena. They’ll be joined by Moa’s Hazy IPA, Pilsner, mid-strength Bush Moa and the HeyHey RTDs.

Moa managing director Stephen Smith says the new products respond to changes in the alcohol market, but Moa-branded beers remain central to their offerings.

“The only beer areas seeing growth right now are 0% and low-carb, which we’ve addressed in the Southern Alps range and in the Moa range.

“Craft beer is a well-served, competitive sector that isn’t going away, but finding diverse ways to meet the market is crucial. You’re seeing players like Panhead or Garage Project dominate top-end craft, and so Moa’s sitting with the Monteith’s, Mac’s or Stoke’s of the world and strong local brands like Sawmill, Queenstown’s Canyon or McLeod’s in Northland.”

Stephen says HeyHey’s revival reflects changing drinking habits. “Unlike in my day when your first drink might have been a Rheineck, now it’s most likely an RTD.

HeyHey launched a few years ago but got swamped by the rise of Pals, a great story in itself, but we’ve noted there’s very limited brand loyalty in that market.

“After winning the Christchurch contract we’ve seen HeyHey connect with more people by finding gaps in the market, which have proven really popular across our reimagined range.”

“It’s amazing to be at the forefront of Venues Ōtautahi, especially with the excitement around Te Kaha Stadium, the Super Weekend Round of Super Rugby and the events announced for Christchurch, but also to be on shelves across the country.

“But whether it’s at events or at home, I’m hoping Marlburians will share the good word about their locally made drink options throughout summer.”