About The National Distillery Company Limited
The National Distillery Company (NDC) in Napier, Hawke’s Bay, is a craft spirits distillery set in a beautifully restored Art Deco landmark. Housed in the former National Tobacco Company (1933) building in Ahuriri, the distillery was founded by Blair Nicholl and Ricardo Reis. They transformed this “diamond in Napier’s architectural crown” into a modern distillery and tasting room. The Louis Hay–designed structure blends Art Nouveau touches (sculpted raupō motifs on the façade) with modernist steel and concrete. After decades as a tobacco factory and Rothmans outlet, it was repainted in its original 1930s colors and reopened as a public venue . Today NDC produces award-winning gin, vodka, rum and whisky, briskly fusing time-honoured traditions with modern techniques . The ornate domed foyer and marble flooring speak to the venue’s historic pedigree. As part of Napier’s art deco tourism circuit, this distillery is notable for its unique mix of local heritage and craft spirit innovation, drawing both visitors and locals for tastings and tours of the landmark building.
Events and Programming
Rather than concerts, National Distillery’s calendar centres on interactive tasting events. Daily offerings include the standard Cellar Door Tasting (a seated tasting flight for NZ$30 each) and a full Tour & Tasting package (NZ$80, including a guided history tour of the 1930s building) . Beyond that, the company runs special classes and workshops. For example, hands-on cocktail-making classes allow visitors to create and sample their own drinks, led by the distillery’s enthusiasts . In cooler months they have “gin blending” events, where guests mix botanicals into custom gin bottles – one reviewer had “lots of fun blending a bottle of gin” at a mid-winter session . Light local nibbles (cheese trays, olives, etc.) often accompany these events, as noted by visitors. All experiences are hosted by knowledgeable staff (often the co-founder/distillers themselves), and reviewers highlight the fun, informative atmosphere . The venue can also be booked for private functions (conference groups, hen parties or weddings). According to the distillery, it can “accommodate large bookings, from work functions to bridal parties” with custom tours and tastings . In short, most “performances” here are spirited education: interactive tours, tastings, and mixology workshops rather than live music or theatre.
Tickets and Booking
Visiting the distillery requires advance booking. The official policy is that “bookings are essential for Tours and Tastings and preferred for our Cellar Door Tastings” . In practice this means you should reserve your spot in advance on the distillery’s website or by contacting them directly. Ticket prices are fixed: the Cellar Door Tasting costs NZ$30 per person , while the Tour & Tasting (which includes the historical tour) is NZ$80 . These packages include generous spirit samples, mixers and a guided experience of the venue. For special classes or large groups, booking early is advised—these often sell out weeks ahead. The distillery accepts payment by card on site. There is no on-the-door box office selling walk-up tickets for sold-out dates. Minimum age for tastings is 18, and guests should be prepared to show ID if requested. In short, plan ahead and book online or by phone before visiting to ensure availability and the best pricing.
Seating and Layout
The National Distillery’s interior is an elegant open-plan space. You enter through a set of polished wooden doors into a circular marble foyer topped by a soaring dome . The main tasting area branches off this foyer. There is no fixed theater seating or stage – instead you’ll find high stools and cocktail-height tables clustered around a central bar. Visitors generally stand or sit casually while sipping samples. Because it’s primarily a tasting lounge, acoustics are quiet and conversational (imagine a chic bar rather than a live music room). During a cocktail or blending class, seats are arranged around prep counters so everyone can see the demonstration. Best spots tend to be by the windows or along the bar, where you can chat with the distillers and see the stills. Keep in mind this venue is intimate and heritage-rich – avoid blocking pathways, and watch your footing on the cool marble floors underfoot. In general, the layout favors mingling and tasting rather than assigned seating, with no separate VIP section or general-admission pit. Quiz the host about any spots with poor sightlines to avoid, but the whole floor works well for enjoying the distillery’s shows (aka tastings).
Getting There and Parking
NDC is located at 1 Ossian Street , Ahuriri, Napier (Hawke’s Bay)Napier
Inside the Venue
Step inside and expect a polished, museum-like atmosphere. The grand foyer’s marble columns and domed ceiling immediately impress . Guests typically check in at the tasting bar; staff are friendly and will direct you to your tasting area. Security is minimal – you may only see an ID check if you order a tasting flight (since it’s alcohol service). Dress is casual but neat (jeans and a smart top are fine; no strict code). The main activity is at the bar, where bartenders pour gin, vodka and rum. You can also order simple gin cocktails pared with local tonic and garnishes. The food menu is very limited: at most you’ll find small “nibbles” like cheese & crackers, olives or nuts to accompany the drinks. (Larger meals are available at the many Ahuriri eateries nearby.) If you taste several spirits, the staff may provide water and plain crackers to cleanse the palate. A gift fridge sells bottles of the distillery’s spirits and mixers as souvenirs. Restrooms are on-site (unisex or one of each near the tasting area). There’s no official coat check; just hang outerwear on the nearby racks or over your chair. Wi-Fi may be spotty in the old concrete walls, so plan to rely on mobile data if needed. The venue is wheelchair accessible at the ground level (a gentle ramp leads to the main floor), but chairs and bar counters are tall – notify the staff if you need accommodations. Note: outside food or drink is not allowed, and smoking is only permitted in the outdoor areas by law. Overall, expect a relaxed bar vibe where the star is the spirit – the atmosphere is elegant and historical, with friendly service and constant tastings on tap.
Nearby Amenities
If you arrive early or stay late, Ahuriri itself is a buzzing dining precinct. You’re within walking distance of dozens of cafes, restaurants and bars. For pre-show dining, try cafés like Rêve or Wildflower (great for brunch) or Smart Boys (pizza). Nearby waterfront eateries include Pacific Restaurant & Bar, and Two Chimneys brewpub. The local historic pub, The Good Home, is a short stroll away for hearty meals or craft beers. If you need accommodations, several boutique hotels and motels are close by. The Admirals Retreat (Te Pania) and Scenic Hotel (Marine Parade) on the waterfront are a 5–10 minute drive. More budget-friendly motels (e.g. Old Corn Mill, 1720 Napier City) are within a few kilometers. When planning your night, note that Napier’s late-night transport options are limited: after 11pm, pre-book a taxi or use Uber/Zoomy, as city buses stop running around 10pm. Otherwise, Ahuriri is safe and lively at night and just a few minutes’ walk from the estuary walkway if you want to stretch your legs after a tasting.
What Makes This Venue Special
The National Distillery Company stands out for marrying heritage architecture with craft distilling. Just being inside the Louis Hay–designed "old tobacco building" provides a sense of history . The gilded details – carved wooden doors, intricate glass dome and marble foyer – are rare survivors of Napier’s 1930s boom era. It truly feels like stepping into an Art Deco museum that doubles as a bar. The distillery also carries cultural significance: it turned a piece of Napier’s quake-era legacy into a living business, preserving the building as a local landmark . Spirit-wise, NDC is beloved for quality: their gins have won multiple awards, and cocktails here showcase regional botanicals (the owners emphasize using New Zealand ingredients). Reviewers frequently cite the “beautiful heritage” and “knowledgeable hosts” (the distillers themselves) as highlights . In short, both visitors and locals love the place not just for its top-notch drinks but for its atmosphere – an elegant slice of Napier’s past reimagined. This combination of story, style and substance is what makes the distillery a must-visit in Hawke’s Bay.
Visitor Tips and Information
The distillery is open to visitors but comes with a few reminders. First, bring valid photo ID if you plan to taste (proof of age 18+). Children and minors are not allowed in tasting sessions, so plan childcare accordingly. Bookings are required for tours and strongly recommended for tastings – try to reserve online a few days ahead, especially on weekends. Arrive a little early (10–15 minutes before your booking) so you can start promptly. The dress code is smart casual; the marble floor can be slippery, so wear sensible shoes. Inside, there’s no cloakroom; small bags usually fit under the bar. Feel free to take photos for personal use, but keep flash off to avoid disturbing others. Remember this is an indoor bar, so smoking and vaping inside are prohibited. If you have mobility concerns, call ahead; the ground floor is largely accessible, but older buildings occasionally have thresholds. Finally, tasty as the spirits are, the legal limit means don’t drive after drinking. Instead, be ready to call a taxi or book a rideshare home. With these tips in mind, you’ll have a smooth, enjoyable visit – cheers to that!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a distillery tour or tasting?
Bookings are required in advance through the distillery’s official channels. You can reserve a Tour & Tasting or Cellar Door Tasting online via their website or by phone. Walk-ins are not guaranteed since space is limited, so always book ahead – hours and availability are listed on their site and social media.
What are the opening hours and days of operation?
Typically, the distillery’s Cellar Door is open Thursday through Saturday, 1 pm to 5 pm . Guided tours and tastings run during those hours by appointment. Closed Sundays–Wednesdays. Hours may change seasonally or during holidays, so it’s best to check the latest schedule on their website or social media before visiting.
What does the tasting include and how much does it cost?
The standard Cellar Door Tasting (about 30 minutes) is NZ$30 per person and includes tastes of a flight of spirits with mixers . The full Tour & Tasting package (about 60–90 minutes) is NZ$80 . It includes a guided tour of the distillery, stories of the historic building, plus additional spirit samples. Both experiences let you sample the in-house gin, vodka, rum (and sometimes whisky) along with mix-and-match options.
Can I bring children or infants?
No. This is a working distillery and bar serving alcohol, so all guests must be 18 or over. Children and minors are not permitted in the tasting area for safety and licensing reasons. The distillery focus is strictly on adult experiences.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the distillery is on one level with ramp access at the entrance. However, note that counters and seating are at bar height. If you need assistance, it’s best to mention this when booking. Staff are usually happy to accommodate special needs by providing a suitable seating area or arranging a private tour if required.
Where is the distillery and is there parking?
The distillery is at 1 Ossian Street, Ahuriri, Napier . There is limited free street parking on Ossian and nearby side streets (some spots have meters). A public pay car park is a short walk away on Eleventh Avenue. Many guests also come by taxi or rideshare (Uber/Zoomy can drop you right at the door). Because parking is popular, consider arriving a bit early or sharing a cab if possible.
Are there public transport options near the distillery?
Yes. Hawke’s Bay buses (GoBay network) run through Ahuriri. The nearest bus stops are on Marine Parade or Tennyson Street, roughly a 5-minute walk from Ossian Street. Local routes 15 and 16 connect central Napier and the Ahuriri district. From the Napier iSite/Tennyson Street hub, you can catch a bus heading towards the inner harbour area. Check the latest timetables to plan your trip.
Is seating provided during tastings and classes?
The venue is mostly standing-room with some high-top tables and bar stools. For tastings, you can sit or stand with your sample glass. In cocktail or blending classes, chairs or stools are arranged around the workstation, but there is no fixed seating chart. The layout is informal – there are no assigned seats or reserved sections. If mobility is an issue, ask the staff on arrival for an accessible spot.
What is the capacity of the distillery venue?
The distillery is relatively small and intimate. Official capacity isn’t listed, but it comfortably fits about 30–40 guests at a time. This is why advance booking is recommended. For private events or large bookings, the owners can reconfigure spaces, but generally count on a low-key gathering rather than a huge crowd.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code. Guests typically wear smart casual attire (e.g. neat jeans or slacks, polo shirt or blouse). Just keep in mind the polished interior – while shorts and sneakers are fine in daytime tours, some visitors opt for slightly dressier gear in the evening. Whatever you choose, comfortable shoes are wise since you may be standing and walking through the historic space.
Are pets or service animals allowed?
Pets are not permitted inside the distillery due to hygiene rules. However, service animals are allowed in accordance with the law. Always notify the booking staff in advance if you plan to bring a service dog so they can make any necessary accommodations.
Can I take photographs during the tour?
Yes, photography for personal use is allowed throughout the venue (the 1930s décor and copper stills make great photo ops). Just be considerate – no flash if it might disturb other guests. If you plan to use professional camera equipment, it’s courteous to check first. No official photography restrictions are advertised on their site or reviews.
Is there food available on-site?
Only light snacks are available, typically included with certain tastings. Think cheese boards, crackers, olives or nuts – the emphasis is on the spirits themselves. If you want a full meal, there are many restaurants a short walk away. Some guests grab a bite in town before or after their visit. (Note: outside food is not allowed inside.)
Can I purchase bottles and souvenirs at the distillery?
Yes. The distillery sells its own spirits to take home. You’ll see racks or a small shop area with its award-winning gin, rum, vodka (often packaged in gift packs). They may also have branded glassware or apparel. Bottles can be purchased at cellar-door prices, and staff will gladly help you choose a favourite to buy before you leave.
