The Post November 2025

We’re getting into the frothy frontier of New Zealand hops this November. Join us as we explore a much loved local brewery in Christchurch and visit Canterbury’s groundbreaking first and only hops farm.

Up first, science meets success in Canterbury’s only commercial hop farm. We met John Penno, agricultural scientist and owner of Okuora Farms, whose 700-hectare beef and dairy conversion farm is slowly turning its hand to horticulture. Bold River Hops by Okuora Farms has started making waves not just locally but internationally.

Next, we catch up with Simon Bretherton and the team at Cassels Brewery. What started as a humble bar in Christchurch’s Woolston District, has scaled to a nationwide supplier of quality beer, some of which is created from Bold River Hops’ hops. Simon talks about everything brewing and beer.

Cam Stuart of Stuart Fencing in Christchurch shows us how he tidies up his box stays with an envelope tie, using sheep netting. This tip cleans everything up to make his fences not only look good but also stand the test of time.

This month is extra special, with Goldpine highlighting and getting involved in Gumboot Friday, in support of youth mental health. Pop down to any Goldpine store on Friday, November 7th and toss a gumboot, win a spot prize, and do it all in support of rural mental health.

This month’s State of the Industry provides a current snapshot of New Zealand’s hops sector, with insights from key leaders and contributors helping shape where it’s headed.