Timaru’s only microbrewery, Ship Hop Brewing, is a gem awaiting discovery. Tucked down near Timaru Station and Port, the petite brewery is housed in a stunning turn-of-the-century building with a working wool factory as its neighbour. Currently, the doors open once a week for craft beer enthusiasts to taste and purchase a variety of craft beers directly from the brewery.

The brewing company was initially set up in a shipping container on farmland just out of town, and if you look closely you’ll notice remnants of that very container functioning as a side to the inbuilt bar. To keep with the theme, the countertop is made out of a pile from the old town wharf.

Ship Hop produces around six staple beers and a monthly special, which offers the brewers a chance to experiment. Around 100-200 litres of beer makes its way to local pubs in kegs and homes in riggers, weekly. The brewery has quickly built up a loyal local following, and is making a name for itself in the national craft beer circles, with people from all over the country making the trip to Timaru for a taste of Ship Hop beer.

Future plans include expanding the hoppy offerings and opening a proper bar where people can sit in and enjoy Ship Hop brews.