A Kiwi Brew Story

The Pour House & the Vowles Family - A Kiwi Brew Story

In the early 2000s, British couple Neil and Karen Vowles visited New Zealand on holiday and were instantly captivated by the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, its rugged coastlines, warm beaches, and relaxed coastal lifestyle. What was meant to be just a holiday soon became a new chapter in their lives, and in 2004 they bought a house in Matarangi.

Neil, a passionate home brewer since his student days in the UK, noticed that the local beer scene was dominated by the “Big Two” and lacked the craft-driven flavours he loved. So the Vowles family did what kiwis do best, they created their own brand, The Coromandel Brewing Co. What began as small-batch brewing in their Matarangi garage quickly grew as Karen shared tasters with local bars and restaurants, and the beers soon gained a devoted following across the peninsula.

By 2014, The Pour House opened in Hahei, a place as beautiful as the beer itself. Today, it’s more than a brewery,  it’s a bar, restaurant, and community hub, where visitors can enjoy handcrafted beers, ciders, and gin, each inspired by the region’s unique flavours. Guests can relax in the sun-drenched garden, sample a tasting flight, or share a meal with friends, all while soaking up the laid-back Coromandel vibe.

The Pour House reflects the Vowles family spirit, warm, welcoming, and rooted in a love of craft and community. Every sip tells the story of a family who followed their passion, embraced adventure, and created a space where locals and travellers alike can experience the tastes and spirit of Hauraki Coromandel.

If you’re in Hauraki Coromandel, don’t miss the chance to visit The Pour House. Whether you’re a craft beer lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxed spot to unwind, it’s the perfect place to taste Hauraki Coromandel, connect with the local community, and make memories that linger long after the last sip. Come for the beer, gin or cider, stay for the story, your Hauraki Coromandel adventure isn’t complete without it.