Make Your Own Gin at the Matahui Gin Lab

If you’re a gin enthusiast or simply curious about the art of distilling spirits, the Make Your Own Gin at Matahui Gin Lab offers a unique opportunity to craft a gin tailored to your tastes. From selecting botanicals to learning about sustainable distillation, this experience combines education, creativity, and fun—all in the stunning surroundings of Tauranga.

We love that this tour is highly personalized, provides insight into eco-friendly distilling practices, and concludes with a tasting of some of New Zealand’s best spirits. However, it’s worth noting that the experience is somewhat compact, lasting about 2.5 hours, so those with limited time might want to plan accordingly.

Best suited for gin lovers, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a memorable activity in New Zealand, this tour promises a delightful mix of learning and tasting in a friendly, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Personalized Gin Creation: Design a 500ml bottle tailored to your taste using a wide range of botanicals.
• Educational Focus: Learn about sustainable distillation processes and plant-based spirit crafting.
• Award-Winning Tasting: Enjoy complimentary tastings of some of New Zealand’s top spirits at the Cellar Door.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Beautiful Venue: Set in a scenic, tranquil location with on-site permaculture gardens.
• Great Value: At $57.49 per person, you get hands-on activity, education, and tastings in under three hours.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

The tour begins at 270 Matahui Road, Aongatete, just outside Tauranga. The destination offers a peaceful rural backdrop, perfect for relaxing and focusing on your gin-making journey. Reviewers frequently mention the beautiful setting — many appreciate the on-site permaculture gardens, which supply some of the botanicals used in their spirits. The environment adds a layer of authenticity and tranquility that enhances the entire experience.

The Creation Process

The core of this experience is crafting your own gin. You start with a base spirit, then select from an extensive variety of botanicals—many grown right on the property—ranging from classic juniper to more exotic herbs and spices. The process isn’t rushed; guides walk you through each step, explaining how different botanicals influence flavor profiles.

One reviewer described this part as “amazingly insightful,” emphasizing how much they learned about tasting notes and pairing. You’ll get to design a 500ml bottle of gin, making it a perfect souvenir or gift for yourself or fellow gin lovers. This level of customization is a real highlight, especially since many participants find it satisfying to create a spirit that aligns with their personal taste.

Educational Tour

Post-creation, the guide — likely someone with a passion for distilling — shares insights into the sustainable distillation process. You’ll gain an understanding of how the distillery harnesses eco-friendly practices, which adds an ethical dimension to the experience. Details about the distillation methods and how botanicals are harvested or cultivated shed light on the authenticity and craftsmanship behind Matahui’s spirits.

Tasting at the Cellar Door

Once your gin is bottled, the experience continues with a complimentary tasting at the on-site Cellar Door. Here, you’ll sample a range of spirits, including the award-winning New Zealand Botanical Spirit. Reviewers have appreciated the generous pours and the opportunity to learn about tasting notes and pairings. One reviewer even mentioned that there was “plenty of gin to try,” which makes the tasting both educational and satisfying.

Value for Money

At $57.49 per person, this experience offers significant value. It combines hands-on activity, education, and tastings in just over two hours—perfect for a half-day activity. When you consider the personalized gin bottle and the guided tour, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a fun activity but also an educational experience that offers tangible souvenirs.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Reviewers praise the welcoming hosts, who are both knowledgeable and friendly. This small group setting ensures everyone gets ample attention and can ask questions freely. The guides are often described as helpful and enthusiastic, which elevates the overall experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, making it ideal for travelers with limited time yet wanting a meaningful experience.
• Price: $57.49 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized nature and inclusions.
• Meeting Point: 270 Matahui Road, Aongatete, offering a peaceful rural vibe.
• Booking: Mobile tickets available, with confirmation provided immediately upon booking.
• Participants: Most travelers can participate, with a maximum of 10 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for gin lovers eager to customize their own spirit and learn about distilling. It’s also suitable for travelers seeking a hands-on activity that combines education with tasting, especially those who enjoy small-group, intimate settings. If you appreciate sustainable practices and want a memorable souvenir from New Zealand, this tour checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

The Make Your Own Gin at Matahui Gin Lab offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that blends creativity, education, and taste. Set in a serene environment with knowledgeable hosts, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone interested in spirits, especially if crafting a personalized gin sounds appealing. The inclusion of award-winning tastings and the chance to learn about sustainable distillation elevate this activity beyond just a fun afternoon.

While the duration might feel brief for some, the quality of interaction, the tailored spirit, and the scenic setting make it an excellent value. Whether you’re a dedicated gin enthusiast or a curious traveler, this tour provides an engaging way to connect with New Zealand’s craft spirits scene.

FAQs

How long does the experience last?
It lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, giving enough time to create your gin, learn about the process, and enjoy tastings.

What is included in the price?
You get to design and bottle your own 500ml gin, plus a complimentary tasting at the Cellar Door featuring award-winning spirits.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and with a maximum of 10 people, the experience is quite personalized. Check with the provider if you have specific health concerns.

Where does the tour start?
At 270 Matahui Road, Aongatete, in a peaceful rural setting near Tauranga.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

How many botanicals can I choose from?
The tour offers an extensive range, many of which are cultivated on-site—perfect for customizing your gin.

Will I learn about sustainable distillation?
Absolutely, the guide explains how the distillery harnesses eco-friendly practices during the process.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum is 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are there options for special dietary needs?
This isn’t specified, but as it’s a hands-on activity, dietary restrictions are unlikely to impact the core experience.

Is the gin bottle a good souvenir?
Definitely! You create a personalized 500ml bottle, making a unique keepsake or gift.

In summary, if you want a memorable, hands-on activity that combines learning, personalization, and taste, the Matahui Gin Lab is a wonderful choice. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate authentic experiences set in beautiful surroundings, all at a reasonable price point.