Entries are now open for the ninth New World Beer & Cider Awards, with the Top 30 brews to be showcased at New World stores nationwide.

A 29-strong independent judging panel will again be led by award-winning beer writer and judge Michael Donaldson and includes beer and cider brewers from some of New Zealand’s best-known breweries.

The 2023 competition includes specific classes created for more unusual and creative beers and ciders, and again features a special class for the growing category of low and no alcohol beers and ciders under 1.15% ABV.

Organisers say that this year’s event is also moving to the RNA judging system, as used by the New Zealand Beer Awards, offering improved feedback with entry results. 

Judges will select their Top 30 beers and ciders and award a Supreme Winner. These products will receive national distribution through 140+ New World stores, active in-store promotion and comprehensive marketing during the awards’ four-week promotion.

The next 70 best beers and ciders will be Highly Commended and will feature on the New World website, creating a Top 100 list for shoppers.

Entrants for the NZBCA do not need to be an existing New World or Foodstuffs supplier but each entry must be able to supply the minimum volume within the required timeframe in the event of being selected for the Top 30. 

Entries will close at 5pm on Friday 17 February 2023 and judging will take place in mid-March.

W: Find entry details at newworld.co.nz/discover/beer-and-cider-competition