About Begin Distilling
Begin Distilling (branded Juno Gin) is a boutique family-run distillery and tasting room in Westown, New Plymouth. Founded by Dave and Jo James – former dairy and science professionals – it produces award-winning gin and vodka from Mt Taranaki’s pure water. Housed in a repurposed industrial shed at 16 Sunley Street, the venue features a copper still (“Lila”) and a chilled, contemporary bar and cellar-door atmosphere (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.venture.org.nz ). It’s notable for blending Kiwi innovation and sustainability: the team won a 2019 environmental excellence award for their locally built still and waste-reduction ethos (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ) (www.venture.org.nz ). Using home-grown botanicals and seasonal recipes, Begin Distilling brings a uniquely Taranaki flavour to its spirits and the local scene. Its global accolades – like Best New Zealand Spirit at national awards – have made it a source of regional pride (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ) (junogin.com ). In short, this small-gin venue matters for its world-class products, science-driven roots and friendly vibe.
Events and Programming
Begin Distilling isn’t a concert hall, but it’s lively with guided experiences. Daily visitors can drop in for casual tastings or book more extensive sessions. The distillery offers themed tours and workshops: for example, the 60-minute *Tasting Tour* ($35) covers botanicals and includes a walk through the distillery, while the 90-minute *Full Distillery Tour* ($69) adds a welcome cocktail, canapés and multiple gin tastings (junogin.com ) (junogin.com ). Cocktail-making classes (3 styles, snacks, about 90 min) are popular group events (www.taranaki.co.nz ). The space also hosts special events – from corporate Christmas parties to collaboration dinners. (In 2025, it hosted the Taranaki Property Investors annual Mixer with tours and cocktails (nzpif.co.nz ).) Seasonal and one-off events – like gin-and-cooking nights – show up on the Juno Gin events calendar. Expect a relaxed schedule: tours run most weekdays and weekends, and occasional evenings for booked gigs. Ticket prices range widely (e.g. $15 casual tastings, $35–$69 tours, ~$75 cocktail classes) depending on duration and inclusions (junogin.com ) (www.taranaki.co.nz ).
Tickets and Booking
Lifesized and flexible, booking is easy. You can reserve tours and events online (through their official booking portal) often weeks in advance. Full tours should be pre-booked (especially on weekends) because spots are limited to a few dozen people. Casual tastings in the bar area are usually walk-in (no booking needed, about $15pp) (junogin.com ). Large or corporate groups can arrange private hires or catered tours with the distillery team. Box office: there’s no separate ticket booth – the distillery’s small cellar-door handles check-in. For popular events (holidays, cocktail classes) tickets “sell out,” so plan ahead. Prices cover guiding, samples and food per the tour type; tip as desired. Typically, tickets are paid online or on-site, with tiers: e.g. standard vs. premium tours. It’s wise to sign up for news alerts, as key events (like partner workshops) are announced by email and social media.
Seating and Layout
The tasting space at Begin Distilling is intimate and open-plan. There’s no fixed theatre-style seating – rather, a mix of high tables, benches and stools around the main bar and copper still. One guest called it a “classy…and super cool” modern distillery bar (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). The “tasting room” is essentially a polished warehouse interior, with a nearby distillery still on display. Outside, a covered courtyard or conservatory (glass pavilion) provides all-weather seating. You can easily move between the indoor bar and outdoor seating for the best view of the distilling equipment. Sightlines are good everywhere; there’s no “bad seat” since the room is small. As a general guide: small parties often sit around communal tables or the bar, while larger bookings may spread into the courtyard. The space feels casual – no VIP boxes or reserved sections. Acoustically, conversations and the tour guide are easy to hear in this low-ceiling space (it’s designed for tasting, not loud music).
Getting There and Parking
The distillery is at 16 Sunley Street in Westown, about 3km north of New Plymouth’s CBD (junogin.com ). By car, take Devon Street West or Mangorei Road; Sunley St is a short turn off once you reach the industrial strip near the Westown shops. There is a small private car park on-site, and ample free street parking nearby (www.taranaki.co.nz ). Visitors note “great off-street parking” available at the venue (www.taranaki.co.nz ). If you use rideshare (Uber/Ola) or a taxi, the driver can drop you at the door. Public transport: Citylink’s Route 4 bus (Westown/Hurdon line) runs past nearby streets – check the TRC timetable for stops on Mangorei or South Roads. The nearest bus stop is on Devon Street, a 5–10 minute walk from the distillery. For those coming on foot or by bike, Westown is flat and fairly easy to reach along Broadway or via the Coastal Walkway. Try to arrive 10–15 minutes early to park or find the entrance.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, guests usually check in at the bar/cellar-door counter. A staff member (often co-founder Jo or another host) will confirm your booking or take your drink order. The vibe is friendly and casual – think polished-industrial finishes, copper accents, and gin memorabilia. For tours you’ll be guided through in small groups; stand or sit as directed to sample each spirit. The distillery is licensed, so you can order cocktails, gin flights or other drinks anytime. There’s no full kitchen – food comes as small canapés during tours or nibbles with cocktail classes. Otherwise, think “bar snacks only.” Bathrooms are available on site (ask a staff member if hidden). There’s no cloakroom counter, but limited coat hooks or side tables. Wi-Fi is generally offered to guests (since it’s about 21st-century tourism) and cell reception is good. Surf on your phone between tastings (the owners encourage a friendly social media banter!). A gift and bottle shop is integrated – you can buy Juno Gin, Vesta Vodka and merch at cellar-door pricing while you enjoy your drink. Security is low-key (no bag searches); the main rule is ID if you buy or consume alcohol. Dress code is entirely casual – shorts and flip-flops are common on hot days, though neat casual attire fits the smart bar setting.
Nearby Amenities
Westown is primarily an industrial-residential area, so immediate dining options are limited. For pre- or post-visit meals, many head a few blocks south to Devon Street or east to Broadway. Quick eats near the distillery include local cafés and bakeries around Vogeltown (at the base of Mangorei Road) or fish-and-chip shops on Devon Street. If you have more time, New Plymouth’s downtown (about 5 minutes by car) offers cafés, world-class restaurants and bars. Notables include The Social Kitchen (modern Kiwi cuisine) and bars & pubs on Galbraith Street or Egmont Street. For a casual pint close by, Shining Peak Brewery & Eatery is only a 3-minute drive south – they also serve food and local beers. Hotels and accommodation: Begin Distilling itself has no lodging, but NP has plenty. Nearest are city-center options like Distinction or Holiday Inn (both ~2km away). For a room near-town’s nightlife, choose something around the TSB Showplace or Courtenay Street. If you’re staying overnight, plan transport back after last call; city cabs and Uber run late but will charge a fare for the short ride. When arriving for a tour or workshop, aim to get there 10–15 minutes early: give yourself time to park, check in, and perhaps sip a pre-tour cocktail at the bar. Though there’s no strict pre-show dinner (the tours include snacks), some visitors like to grab a bite nearby beforehand. Westown has a few takeaways, or simply enjoy a coffee at Dawn View Café on Devon Street to fuel up before tasting.
What Makes This Venue Special
Begin Distilling is special because it combines science, sustainability and local character into a social experience. It isn’t just another bar – it’s a working craft distillery you can explore. The owners’ story (two scientists from dairy and public health who returned home to launch a gin distillery in 2016) gives the place heart and authenticity (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ). The venue’s design stands out: a beautiful copper still built by a Taranaki engineer (instead of importing equipment) reflects its ethos of “make it together, make it right” (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ). Customers often praise the unique blend of modern comfort and industrial charm (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Sustainability is woven into everything: even spent botanicals (used juniper berries) are given whole to a local chocolatier, and waste botanicals composted, winning the distillery eco-awards (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ). On the cultural side, it’s put Taranaki on the map for spirits – locals point to Juno Gin’s national trophies as community pride (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ). Inside, the experience feels heartfelt: tours often feel like visiting friends, not just a vendor. The owners make it fun (often with games like gin quizzes) while showcasing pure Taranaki water and homegrown ingredients. In sum, the mix of award-winning gin, personal attention, and local ethos is what both visitors and traveling spirits judges rave about. The venue’s OECD to SEA-level vibe – rooted in local pride yet world-class – makes Begin Distilling a beloved part of New Plymouth’s social fabric (www.venture.org.nz ) (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The distillery notes it is wheelchair friendly, with step-free entry and good parking (www.taranaki.co.nz ). Doors are wide and tours can accommodate mobility aids. The all-weather courtyard provides covered seating too. ID and Age: This is a licensed premises. All drinkers must be 18+ and carry valid ID – staff can check. Children may join tours if supervised, but note the content is about alcohol. Bookings: For best results on busy weekends or holiday workshops, book 1–2 weeks in advance. Casual visits in weekday afternoons can often be walk-ins. Attire: Dress comfortably but tidy – think smart-casual. Avoid heavy perfumes (to better smell botanicals). Wear closed shoes if you want to tour behind the still. What to Bring: Just yourself (and ID). Cameras and phones are fine – many guests snap photos of the polished still and botanicals. Bags are allowed (there’s no strict bag policy), but pack light since space is limited. They explicitly welcome travelling companions, including kids and even pets (on leash) in outdoor seating (www.taranaki.co.nz ). Etiquette: The staff are helpful so feel free to ask questions. The distillery often adds a quiz or games for fun, so participate! Don’t wander off into production floors unsupervised. Officially, smoking is not allowed indoors. Food: No outside food is permitted during tours (nibbles are provided). If you’re hungry before coming, have a snack prior. If bringing snacks, check with staff – they at least have re-usable glasses for cocktails. Mistakes to Avoid: Trying to sneak a larger group than booked, or not showing up on time (some tours start promptly). Also, remember it’s a working distillery, so chemotherapy wise, they recommend not wearing open-toe shoes if you plan to explore the still area. Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi is available in the tasting area, and you’ll often be encouraged to share photos (#JunoGin). Check holiday hours in advance – the distillery does close on major NZ holidays (closed Easter Sunday, Xmas Day, etc. (junogin.com )). Adults may want to arrange a safe ride home if planning to drink. Finally: Relax, have fun, and take home a bottle of your favourite gin or vodka from the shop to remember the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a tour or tasting at Begin Distilling?
Tours and experiences are best booked in advance online. The distillery offers an online booking system for planned tours (recommended especially on weekends or for group events). You can also call or email the venue to reserve a spot. Casual walk-in tastings are possible during opening hours (no reservation needed for the self-pour bar).
What are the prices and durations of the Gin tours and tastings?
Ticket prices vary by experience. For example, a casual tasting (self-guided, pay-as-you-go) is around NZ$15 per person. The standard 60-minute Gin Tasting Tour is about NZ$35pp, and the 90-minute Full Distillery Tour (with cocktail and snacks) is around NZ$69pp (junogin.com ) (junogin.com ). Cocktail-making classes (about 90 mins) are roughly NZ$75pp. Always check the latest pricing on the distillery’s website.
Can I just drop in for a cocktail or tasting without booking?
Yes. The distillery’s cellar-door bar is open during business hours and serves cocktails, gin flights and casual tastings to non-booked visitors. You can simply walk in and order from the menu (about $15 for a tasting paddle). However, for guided tours or classes a prior booking is needed.
Where is Begin Distilling located, and how do I get there?
Begin Distilling is at 16 Sunley Street, Westown, New Plymouth (junogin.com ). It’s in an industrial area just north of the city centre. By car, head along Devon St West or via Mangorei Rd. The venue has a small car park and street parking is available (www.taranaki.co.nz ). Citylink bus route 4 serves Westown (check the TRC timetable for stops near Mangorei Rd and Devon St).
Is there parking available at the distillery?
Yes. Begin Distilling offers on-site parking for visitors in a private lot, and street parking immediately around the shopfront. Parking is free and unmarshaled (so plan to arrive a bit early in case spaces are limited) (www.taranaki.co.nz ). The venue describes it as "great off-street parking." Surrounding streets are also mostly unmetered.
Which public transport routes go to the distillery?
The main public option is the Citylink bus (Route 4: Westown/Hurdon line). Buses on that route stop on nearby Mangorei Road or Devon Street; from those stops it’s a short 5–10 minute walk to Sunley Street. Check the latest Timetable on the Taranaki Regional Council site. There’s no direct train or ferry service – driving or taxi/ride-share is usually easier.
What is the seating and space like inside Juno Gin’s tasting room?
The tasting area is open-plan with mixed seating. You’ll find high tables, bar stools and bench seating around the main bar. There’s also a covered outdoor courtyard area for additional seating. Because the distillery is relatively small and spread out, there are no obstructed views – you can move around easily. Customers call it a "classy… contemporary" gin bar (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). In short, seating feels casual, with a focus on mingling and enjoying the stage (the copper still) from any angle.
How many people can the venue accommodate?
Begin Distilling is cozy – the indoor tasting room holds only a few dozen people at once. For structured events the limit is roughly 30–40 guests (the 2025 Taranaki Property Investors’ event capped at 40). Cocktail classes are capped at about 10 participants. In practice, expect a maximum of ~40 people spread between the bar and courtyard. It’s not designed for large crowds, but for intimate sessions with personal attention.
Are tours and tastings suitable for children or families?
Families are welcome, but remember this is an operating distillery. Children can attend tours (as it’s educational about gin-making) if supervised at all times. However, minors cannot consume alcohol, so tours for kids focus on watching the process and learning, while adults taste. The space is friendly and even pets on leash are allowed in the outdoor seating (www.taranaki.co.nz ). It’s best to check with staff when booking to ensure the experience is age-appropriate.
Can I bring my dog or pet to Begin Distilling?
Yes. Begin Distilling explicitly notes it welcomes "travelling companions (families and pets)" (www.taranaki.co.nz ). Well-behaved dogs are allowed in the outdoor courtyard seating, and staff appreciate knowing if you’ll have a pet in tow. (Pets should be kept leashed and away from major walkways. Remember it’s a working distillery with spirits on site.)
What forms of payment are accepted?
The venue accepts major credit/debit cards and cash. When booking online, you’ll pay by card. On-site, credit cards are preferred (some guests note that mobile EFTPOS is smooth). There’s also an online gift card/gifts option (the Juno Gin Club membership uses secure payment). Check directly with the staff, but generally New Zealand credit cards and cash are fine at the bar or shop.
Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The tasting room and courtyard are on one level with no steps. The venue promotes itself as "accessible" (www.taranaki.co.nz ) and has generous doorways. Restrooms may have accessible stalls (ask staff for details). If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead, but generally people with mobility aids find it easy to visit.
Are there restroom facilities on site?
Yes. The distillery has unisex restrooms for guests. When you arrive, follow signage or ask staff – the bathrooms are in a tidy, separate area behind the main bar. They keep them clean. Accessibility features may be present (grab handles, etc.) since the venue is marketed as accessible.
Can I take photos during the distillery tour?
Generally, yes. Guests often photograph the copper still, botanical displays and cocktails. The owners encourage sharing on social media. There’s no strict no-photo rule, but as a courtesy, turn off flash (so as not to disturb the tour) and avoid filming employees without permission. During the official tasting portions, cameras are fine as long as you don’t block others’ views.
Is there a dress code for visiting Begin Distilling?
No formal dress code – smart casual is recommended. Visitors typically wear comfortable clothes. Because you’ll be indoors near brewing and metal, closed shoes can be practical. If you have a guided distillery tour, avoid very flimsy shoes in case of any unexpected spill. Otherwise, treat it like a nice bar: say, jeans and a shirt or sundress. Bring a light jacket for the courtyard if it’s cool outside.
Does Begin Distilling serve food or allow outside snacks?
Begin Distilling focuses on drinks, so there’s no full restaurant kitchen. On tours and classes they provide light canapés or nibbles that complement the gin flights. Outside of that, they do not allow outside food. If you need a meal, plan to eat before or after your visit. However, many guests grab a snack or meal at a nearby café in Westown or downtown before coming.
Are the distillery’s spirits and merchandise available for purchase on site?
Yes. Begin Distilling has a well-stocked cellar-door shop with all its products. You can buy bottles of Juno Gin, Vesta Vodka and seasonal releases at cellar-door prices. They also sell branded merchandise (glasses, gift packs, tasting vouchers, etc.). Many visitors pick up a bottle as a souvenir.
What are the opening hours of Begin Distilling?
Generally Monday–Friday 10am–5pm (extended to 6pm on Thursdays and 7pm on Fridays), and Saturdays 10am–7pm. (Closed Sunday.) These hours apply to the cellar-door bar and casual tastings (junogin.com ). Tours need booking but often operate within these times. Note: hours can change around public holidays, so always check the latest schedule before visiting.
Is Begin Distilling open on public holidays?
The distillery and online shop observe New Zealand liquor laws. They are closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, and open after 1pm on Anzac Day (junogin.com ). Other public holidays may have reduced hours or require advance notice. It’s best to call or check their announcements before planning a holiday visit.
Why is the company called Begin Distilling when the products are branded Juno Gin?
"BeGin Distilling" is the parent company name (a playful pun on "begin" and "gin"). The flagship product is the Juno Gin brand. The founders also use Begin on their website and labels. Essentially, Begin Distilling is the distillery’s business name, and every spirit (Juno Gin, Vesta Vodka, etc.) is a product of that distillery.
What makes Juno Gin unique or award-winning?
Juno Gin is renowned for its balance and local character. It’s made with New Plymouth’s pristine spring water and botanicals, some of which are grown in Taranaki. Its high-quality production (on a bespoke local still) has won it top awards – for example, Best New Zealand Spirit of the year at the national Super Spirits awards (restaurantandcafe.co.nz ), plus multiple gold medals internationally. The distillery’s passion and sustainability efforts ($0 waste) also let their products stand out globally.
