New data shows Kiwis favouring lower ABV beers

The Brewers Association of New Zealand says that new Statistics New Zealand data shows Kiwis are still enjoying beer – but are increasingly choosing lower ABV options.

The data shows that while total beer available for consumption has fallen to its lowest point in more than a decade, the decline is now stabilising and New Zealanders are opting for lower strength brews.

For the year ending September 2025, overall beer volumes fell only marginally, from 281.6 million litres to 279.0 million litres. But within that total, the most significant change was a major shift away from higher-strength beers and a rapid rise in moderate-strength and lower-ABV options.

Key findings (YE September 2025):

• Beer between 2.5% and 4.35% ABV increased sharply to 105 million litres, up from 76.4 million litres the previous year.

• Higher-strength beer (4.35%–5.0% ABV) fell to 143.0 million litres, down from 165.3 million litres.

• Beer above 5% ABV dropped significantly, from 34.4 million litres to 25.5 million litres.

• Total beer volumes have flattened, falling only 0.9% year-on-year.

Brewers Association of New Zealand Executive Director Dylan Firth says the shift reflects growing consumer interest in moderation, without giving up flavour or enjoyment.

“This fresh Stats NZ data shows that Kiwis are still enjoying nearly the same amount of beer as last year, they’re simply choosing versions with less alcohol. The big story this year isn’t about volume; it’s about strength.

“More New Zealanders are moving back to mid-strength beers and lower-ABV options. That’s a strong indicator of more moderate drinking habits, and beer is perfectly placed to offer great flavour at those levels.”

Firth says brewers have invested heavily in expanding quality options at the lower and mid ABV range, and the trend suggests consumers are responding.

“Beer is unique in offering moderation and taste together. The growth of 2.5%–4.3% beers shows New Zealanders are choosing products that balance enjoyment with responsibility. We have also seen this shift to moderation in the growth of the 0% category, with a huge range of options available for those who still want a beer, but are choosing to not to drink alcohol, or moderate their consumption.”

Firth says that while long-term consumption continues to trend downward, the stabilisation in 2025, combined with the clear shift towards moderate-strength beer, represents a positive development for consumers, retailers, and hospitality businesses leading into the summer months.