Non-drinkers don't need to miss out on cocktail hour with so many mocktail choices on the market these days. Photo / 123RF
Non-drinkers don't need to miss out on cocktail hour with so many mocktail choices on the market these days. Photo / 123RF
From pre-made mocktails to alternative spirits, Kiwis looking for non-alcoholic drinks now have more options than ever. Nikki Birrell looks at what’s on the shelves for summer.
Mocktails in New Zealand are having a moment, shaking off their reputation as mere sugary substitutes for alcoholic drinks. Once limited to fizzydrinks like lemon, lime and bitters, today’s non-drinkers have a much more exciting array of options.
More and more Kiwis are turning to no-alcohol alternatives for a range of reasons, and they’ve never been better served.
The festive season can bring with it multiple occasions where the drinks are flowing, and if you’re interested in participating but want to be more mindful of your health and wellbeing, exploring alcohol-free alternatives means you can join in the party vibes and keep your wits about you too.
The rise of non-alcoholic options means there are innovative alternatives and pre-made options that cater to every palate.
One of the driving forces behind this shift is the emergence of non-alcoholic spirit brands like Lyre’s and Seedlip.
Lyre’s, with its broad range of flavours that mimic everything from classic gin to rum, has established itself as a versatile choice for those looking to recreate their favourite cocktails without the booze.
Seedlip offers another sophisticated alternative, with herbal blends that add complexity to mixed drinks, providing a base for anything from a spicy margarita to a refreshing tonic.
These brands aren’t just filling the void left by traditional spirits, they’re setting new standards in taste and presentation – reflecting a growing demand for non-alcoholic options that go beyond simply removing the alcohol, focusing instead on delivering a full sensory experience.
Pre-made RTD mocktails to match any mood
For those who prefer a ready-to-drink (RTD) option, there are New Zealand brands like AF Drinks and Finery.
AF Drinks, known for its sleek packaging and contemporary flavours, offers variations like a gin and tonic-inspired number that’s as crisp and satisfying as the real thing.
Founded by Lisa King in 2020, AF Drinks sells a range of alcohol-free cocktails and sparkling beverages.
Finery brings its own flair with a selection that includes unique blends such as cucumber, mint, lemon and lime – perfect for a refreshing, guilt-free sip on a summer evening.
Pal’s also does a great zero-alcohol range of enticing flavours.
These RTD mocktails have changed the game for non-drinkers, proving you don’t need to compromise on taste or sophistication. They’re ideal for gatherings, a quick pick-me-up after work or even just a casual night in when you’re looking for something that feels indulgent without the buzz.
Vinous alternatives
A true standout in the non-alcoholic space is Non – an Australian brand that positions itself as a wine alternative. Its complex flavour profiles make it a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate the art of taste.
With options like salted raspberry and chamomile, Non offers a layered experience that rivals traditional wine or indeed a cocktail. It’s available through Cook & Nelson, and it’s quickly becoming a favourite for its bold approach to flavour.
Non 1, Non 3 and Non 7, part of the brand's "Everyday Set". Photo / Cook & Nelson.
This culinary twist on non-alcoholic beverages signals a shift towards more thoughtful and intentional drinking. It’s less about what’s missing (the alcohol) and more about what’s added: an exploration of taste, aroma and presentation that elevates the experience beyond a simple drink.
Zero-alcohol wine is also booming, with supermarket shelves offering many different wine varietals without any alcohol content.
This category probably has further to go to flavour-wise to become an equal alternative, but for those not drinking but finding it hard to give up their glass of something grapey, there are some viable options.
Ara Zero Sauvignon Blanc, McGuigan Zero Rose, Edenvale Sparkling Cuvee, Veuve du Vernay Zero, Giesen 0% Merlot and Giesen 0% Riesling are all worth a try and mean you can take a bottle to your next party to easily blend in with the festivities.
The beers have it
If you’re a beer drinker, the zero-alcohol category is perhaps one of the most exciting, as the options here really are fantastically similar to their alcoholic counterparts.
You can get some properly tasty beers that run the gamut from a very drinkable lager through to a flavourful IPA.
The key to a great-tasting zero beer is the natural brewing to an alcohol content of less than 0.5% (0.5% ABV is legally considered non-alcoholic because our body metabolises that amount of alcohol faster than we feel any effect). Special yeasts allow for fermentation up to 0.5% ABV and the process retains much of the esters, aromas and body of the beer so that
Sawmill Bare Beer No Alcohol Pale Ale is a full-flavoured beer that is great with food, and Garage Project Tiny No Regrets Hazy IPA too is as close as a zero-alcohol beer could get to its alcoholic alternative.
Some other great choices include Bach Brewing All Day Pilsner, a delicious refreshing option with tropical characters and State of Play Nectaron Unfiltered Pale Ale, which retains a hoppy bitterness balanced with malt.
Heroing zero-alcohol stores
For those keen to explore New Zealand’s growing range of non-alcoholic drinks, specialised retailers like The Chiller (thechiller.co.nz) and AF Drinks’ own Curious AF Bottle Shop (af-drinks.com) offer a curated selection.
These outlets cater specifically to the non-drinker, stocking a variety of alternatives that promise to transform any occasion into something special, minus the alcohol.
The mocktail revolution in New Zealand is much more than a passing trend – it’s a cultural shift towards more inclusive and creative social experiences. With so many options now available, not drinking doesn’t mean compromising on taste or enjoyment.
Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently ahead of summer, including how to pack and plan a picnic lunch, cooking with edible flowers, and some ideas for spring salads.
