Make Your Own Gin at the Matahui Gin Lab

Making Your Own Gin at Matahui Gin Lab in Tauranga: An Authentic Kiwi Spirit Experience

If you’ve ever dreamed of crafting your own gin, this is your chance to turn that dream into reality. Located in the scenic surroundings of Tauranga, Matahui Gin Lab offers a hands-on, two-and-a-half-hour experience that bridges the art of distilling with a dash of personal creativity. Led by master distiller Paul, you’ll learn about sustainable distillation, sample award-winning spirits, and walk away with a custom 500ml bottle of your own gin. With a cost of roughly $57 per person, it’s a surprisingly approachable way to deepen your appreciation for one of New Zealand’s most beloved spirits.

What we love about this tour are two key aspects: First, the personalized nature of creating your own gin from a vast array of botanicals, many of which are grown right here on-site. Second, the educational dimension, where you’re not just making gin — you’re learning how sustainable practices and local botanicals come together in the distillation process.

A small consideration? The tour is limited to 10 participants, which means a more intimate and engaging experience. That’s great for learning, but if you prefer larger groups, this might feel cozy rather than bustling.

This experience is ideal for gin lovers, curious travelers who want to understand the process, or anyone looking for a unique activity that combines learning, tasting, and creating. It’s especially appealing if you like personalized souvenirs or want a memorable story to tell back home.

Key Points

• Personalized Gin: Craft a 500ml bottle tailored to your taste, selecting botanicals from an on-site permaculture garden.
• Educational Tour: Gain insight into sustainable distillation methods used in the micro-distillery.
• Award-Winning Tasting: Sample New Zealand’s best botanical spirits after your session.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value for Money: For around $57, you get a hands-on activity plus a custom bottle and tastings.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in the craft of gin and local ingredients.

A Deep Dive into the Matahui Gin Lab Experience

What to Expect When You Sign Up

The tour begins at 270 Matahui Road in Aongatete, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow gin enthusiasts. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a focus on hands-on learning. For approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll be guided through each step of gin creation, from selecting botanicals to bottling your masterpiece.

The Guided Distillery Tour

Before mixing your botanicals, you’ll take a guided walk around the distillery. What makes this micro-distillery stand out is its eco-friendly approach to distilling, emphasizing sustainable practices and permaculture cultivation. You’ll learn how the distiller harnesses plant power to produce premium spirits, including award-winning gins and liqueurs.

Crafting Your Personal Gin

The core of the experience involves designing your own gin. Here, the extensive botanical library becomes your playground. Many of these botanicals are grown locally, giving your gin a distinct New Zealand character. You choose flavor notes to suit your palate — whether you prefer citrus, floral, spicy, or herbal profiles — and watch as your distiller guides you through balancing each element.

Paul, the master distiller, is praised for being knowledgeable and patient, making sure everyone’s bottle reflects their personal taste. We loved how approachable he made what could seem complex, breaking down distillation and flavor balancing in simple terms.

Tasting and Taking Home Your Creation

Once your gin is ready, you’ll fill your 500ml bottle (your own creation), ready for the journey home. But that’s not all — you’ll also get to sample other spirits from Matahui’s award-winning collection, including New Zealand’s Best Botanical Spirit. These tastings are complimentary, and the host’s enthusiasm makes each sip informative and enjoyable.

Insights from Past Visitors

One reviewer raved, “Amazingly insightful trip into gin making and making one that is just right for your own personal taste.” Others appreciated the welcoming environment and the knowledgeable hosts. The setting is often described as beautiful, adding to the overall relaxed vibe.

Who Will Love This Experience?

It’s best suited for those who want more than just a tasting — if you’re interested in the process, local ingredients, or personalization, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s also perfect for small groups wanting an intimate, educational activity in a scenic setting.

Practical Details

• Price: $57.31 per person, which includes the experience, your personalized gin, and tastings.
• Duration: About 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Group Size: Max 10 travelers — ensuring an engaging, personalized experience.
• Meeting Point: 270 Matahui Road, Aongatete.
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate; check with the provider if you have special needs.
• Booking: Book well in advance — on average, 27 days ahead — as spots tend to fill up.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if plans change. Less than 24 hours notice means no refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare combination of learning, tasting, and creating in a scenic, eco-conscious setting. If you’re a gin enthusiast or simply enjoy personalized experiences that connect you with local ingredients and sustainable practices, this will be a highlight of your trip to Tauranga.

The small group size and expert guidance ensure you’ll leave feeling more knowledgeable and with a unique bottle of gin that truly reflects your taste. Plus, the stunning surroundings and award-winning spirits make it a memorable activity worth planning ahead for.

While it’s not a large-scale commercial distillery tour, that’s part of the charm — you get a personal touch and direct insight into crafting a spirit with authentic Kiwi flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be accessible, and Paul explains concepts clearly, making it perfect whether you’re a gin aficionado or a curious newcomer.

How long does the entire experience last?
Expect around 2 hours 30 minutes from start to finish, including the distillery walk, gin creation, and tastings.

Can I customize my gin to my preferred flavors?
Yes. You’ll select from an extensive range of botanicals, many grown on-site, to craft a gin that suits your tastes.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided gin-making session, your own 500ml bottle of personalized gin, and complimentary tastings of Matahui’s award-winning spirits.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. The activity starts and ends at the same meeting point, so plan your transport accordingly.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your booking. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

In essence, if you’re after an authentic, engaging, and personal way to explore New Zealand’s gin craft, Matahui Gin Lab promises a memorable experience that combines education, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether you’re a seasoned spirit enthusiast or just looking to try something different, this tour offers a beautifully crafted taste of Tauranga’s local flavor.