Proudly sponsored by
This autumn, take a trip around the world, one cocktail at a time.
For a full month, our bars, cafés and restaurants will be drawing inspiration from the great cocktail cultures of the globe, bringing iconic drinks and modern twists from far-flung places right here to Greytown. Global flavours, local flair, and plenty of reasons to visit.
The pace is easy, the glasses are full, and the menus are designed for exploring. Whether it’s a classic cocktail perfected, a bold new favourite, or a beautifully crafted alcohol-free option, it’s as much about the atmosphere as what’s in the glass.
Alongside the tasting trail, you’ll find a programme of events, from intimate tastings, dinners and cocktail workshops through to long afternoons on the Green. This is a festival made for exploring at your leisure.
Pick up a Passport, collect stamps as you explore our boutique stores, bars and eateries, and see how many countries you can “visit” before the month is out.
No rush. No rules. Just great drinks, good company, and a global celebration with a Greytown twist.
The Greytown International Cocktail Festival is brought to you by
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Opening Night: Seven Continents
Date: Friday 20 March
Time: From 5pm
Location: The White Swan DeckKick off the festival at The White Swan Deck from 5–8:30pm. Settle in with live music from local legend Will Prior and friends, a great atmosphere, and cocktails worth lingering over.
You’ll be among the first to explore their Seven Continents cocktail menu — seven globally inspired gin cocktails. Gather your friends, grab a drink, and soak up the energy of the season ahead at The White Swan.
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The Greytown International Cocktail Festival Passport
Date: Friday 20 March - Sunday 16 April
Time: Anytime
Location: Various LocationsPick up your Greytown International Cocktail Festival Passport from any participating venue and start your cocktail-filled adventure! Attend events, purchase cocktails or a mocktails, and collect stamps to complete your card. Once it's filled, you'll be in the draw to win a fabulous prize!
Gather your cocktail-loving friends, sip your way internationally through Greytown, and celebrate in style - this is one sophisticated festival you won’t want to miss!
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Alexia Urban Winery Presents Bonjour Gimlet! (A Sparkling French Affair)
Date: Saturday 21 March
Time: 12pm-5pm
Location: Alexia Urban WineryAlexia is bringing a touch of France to Greytown with their sparkliest cocktail yet — the Alexia Bonjour Gimlet.
This elevated take on the classic gimlet adds an effervescent twist, blending Greytown Distilling gin, floral elderflower liqueur and fresh lime juice, then finished with Alexia Blanc de Noirs Méthode Traditionnelle. Paired with a French-inspired menu, it’s a cocktail well worth saying bonjour to.
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Cricket & Cocktails
Date: Saturday 28 March
Time: 1pm onwards
Location: The Greytown Cricket ClubSpend a charming afternoon unwinding in the picturesque grounds of one of the oldest Cricket Grounds in New Zealand, sipping refreshing Gin & Tonics while cheering on an invitational game of cricketers. It’s the Greytown Goats vs the Greytown Kids!
Indulge in delicious food and embrace the festive garden party vibe. Dressing up is highly encouraged - think tweed-inspired elegance for a chance to win fabulous prizes!
Find out more & grab your tickets today.
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Champion Espresso Martini Making
Date: Saturday 28 March
Time: 5.30pm-6.30pm
Location: SimplicitySip, shake and elevate your cocktail game at this boujee Espresso Martini Workshop, hosted by Honoka Kawashima, New Zealand Barista Champion 2023 and fourth at the World Barista Championship.
This luxe, hands-on session explores the art of the perfect espresso martini—from pulling a flawless shot to balancing sweetness, strength and that signature crema. Craft and taste your own serve while picking up insider tips, enjoying premium spirits, exceptional coffee and stylish vibes.
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Crop Up
Date: Saturday’s in March and April
Time: 9am – 11am
Location: Truckstop Greytown, 102 Main St.Crop Up is Greytown's very own ultra-fresh, ultra-sustainable and ultra-tasty Saturday morning pop-up place to get your fresh food. It's all about crops, coffee and community.
Crop Up brings together a blend of small farm suppliers, growers and local backyarders, offering their produce.
Grab your cocktail accompaniments - lemon, herbs and cucumbers, fruit and flowers
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Full Circle - A Cocktail Experience
Date: Wednesday 1 April
Time: 5.30pm onwards
Location: Greytown Art Gallery, 115 Main StreetFull Circle is a vibrant cocktail-themed art exhibition celebrating circular works by Wairarapa artists.
Join them for a silent auction opening night, drinks in hand, and an immersive gallery experience where every piece tells a story—anonymously.
The Full Circle exhibition will run until Wednesday 15 April.
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Apple Harvest Festival
Date: Saturday 4 April
Time: 10am - 3pm
Location: Molewood Orchard, 17 Mole StreetGather your family and celebrate the bounty of autumn at the third annual Greytown Apple Harvest Festival!
Wander through Molewood Meadows and enjoy:
Pick-your-own apples – bring a bag or bucket!
Cider and fruit wine tastings from local makers.Live music, games & activities for the kids.
Food trucks & artisan market stalls
Entry is FREE!
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The ‘Gin’ Supper
Date: Saturday 4 April
Time: 12pm-2pm
Location: The White Swan HotelGet ready for a truly unforgettable afternoon in the award-winning Captain's Dining Room. Enjoy a tasting journey of four exquisite Greytown Distilling Company gins, each thoughtfully paired with a four-course showcase menu created by The White Swan Head Chef, Tim Stephenson.
This is the ultimate experience for foodies, gin lovers, and anyone who enjoys a great time.
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The Rising
Date: Saturday 4 April
Time: From 3pm - 6pm
Location: The White Swan Garden BarFollowing The “Gin” Supper, the final plates are cleared, and The Rising begins. Carry the celebration on into the afternoon with live music from 3–6pm and a relaxed session in our Garden Bar.
Enjoy showcase Greytown Distilling Company G+Ts poured straight from the keg, alongside a selection of refreshing cocktails, the perfect way to gather, unwind, and let the long weekend roll on.
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Sangria Saturday
Date: Saturday 4 April
Time: From 4pm - 9pm
Location: Main Street Deli, 88 Main StreetListen to live music while enjoying one of Main St Deli’s famous cocktails.
Sit back and relax in the courtyard while your foot taps and you sing along to the good ole favourite tunes we all used to know.
Book a table and go into the draw to win a round of cocktails and a Main St Deli to share, plus more!
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Sip & Style - An Evening of Fashion & Bubbles
Date: Friday 10 April
Time: 5.30pm-7pm
Location: Hall Concept Store, 132 Main StreetJoin Hall Concept Store for a relaxed after-hours evening as part of the Greytown International Cocktail Festival.
Sip on bubbles, enjoy light nibbles, and explore their new autumn arrivals at your own pace. This is late-night shopping without the rush, a chance to browse, try on, and be inspired in good company.
Attendance is free, but spaces are limited.
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Highballs and High Tea on the Green
Date: Saturday 11 April
Time: From 12.30pm-4.30pm
Location: Greytown Bowling ClubYour afternoon includes a cocktail on arrival, followed by two games of bowls played as a fun, friendly mini-tournament. Enjoy a relaxed Bowls-style High Tea, featuring an assortment of classic finger foods, perfect for sharing between games.
There are plenty of chances to win, with prizes awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd highest-scoring teams, plus a cheeky “Bootleg Booby” prize for the lowest-scoring team and a Best Dressed Team award.
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Mr Consistent Cocktail Tastings
Date: Saturday 11 April
Time: 11am - 7pm
Location: Aperitif, 101 Main StreetAperitif are open late to offer all your at-home cocktail-making essentials, including a wide range of spirits, shakers, glassware, RTDs, plus much more.
Don’t miss the delicious Mr Consistent Cocktail tastings from 3pm till 7pm.
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Around the World at Aperitif
Date: Saturday 11 April
Time: From 5pm
Location: Aperitif, 101 Main StreetEnjoy a curated selection of cocktails paired with perfectly matched canapés.
Guests are encouraged to embrace the spirit with cocktail attire, with a Best Dressed prize of $100 up for grabs (purely optional, but highly encouraged).
An evening not to be missed. Limited seats available.
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Sip and Scribble Cafe at Cuckoo
Date: Sunday 12 April
Time: 1pm - 3pm
Location: Cuckoo, 128 Main StreetA special licensed edition of the much-loved Sip & Scribble Cafe - a cosy, creative afternoon of journaling, sweet treats, and good company.
Your ticket includes bottomless tea and coffee, a generous selection of treats, a 30-minute Introduction to Travel Journaling workshop, and an internationally inspired harvest punch infused with Greytown Distilling Company gin.
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Just what the Dr ordered!
Date: Sunday 12 April
Time: 3pm - 5pm
Location: Mother Goose, 1512 State Highway 2, TauwharenīkauUnder expert guidance, explore the curious botanicals and learn some secrets behind cocktail making.
Michael McLane from Tonic Bistro in Martinborough creates a mischievous mixology glass where gin is the cure and shaking, stirring and sipping are strongly encouraged.
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The Bootleggers’ Run – Wairarapa’s Most Notorious Run!
Date: Sunday 19 April
Time: 9am onwards
Location: The White SwanThey’re back on the road, and the law’s still in hot pursuit!
After a sell-out first year, The Bootleggers Run returns to the Wairarapa for another wild day of vintage wheels, fine wine, and a touch of mischief.
Teams will set off across the region, collecting contraband (the fun kind), tasting their way through local wineries, and earning their loot as they go. Dress in your finest 1920s swagger, gather your crew for a day of laughter, stories, and spirited competition.