About Searchlight Brewery
Searchlight Brewery is a family-run craft brewery and taproom in Queenstown, Otago, known among locals as a “hidden gem” in the town’s industrial zone (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Founded by Lewis Gaskin as a 2015 passion project, the owners converted an old tortilla factory into a brewery, hand-building nearly every inch of the facility (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). The brewery opened to the public in June 2018, and quickly became Queenstown’s first dedicated craft brewery of the 21st century (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Its motto “Search. Seek. Evolve.” reflects a culture of innovation – the owners emphasize that craft is about passion and intention behind each beer (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Today Searchlight features 19 rotating taps of in-house brews, a cozy indoor taproom with wood-fired heaters and board games, and a sunny outdoor beer garden where many events are staged (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ).
What makes Searchlight notable is its blend of brewery and event space. It operates not just as a bottle shop or brewpub, but also a community hub for live entertainment and social events. The industrial-chic taproom, complete with board games and a roaring fire for winter evenings, offers a relaxed, welcoming vibe (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Owners Lewis and Anna aimed to create a place more than just “beer on tap” – a place to gather. Indeed, a recent review describes Searchlight as a friendly spot with “relaxed vibes” and “great local beers” making it a must-visit for beer lovers (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). In short, Searchlight is a small independent brewery that brought Queenstown its own craft-beer venue, and it stands out for its handcrafted origin and local focus (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).
Events and Programming
Searchlight hosts a wide variety of events year-round. Regular weekly events include a popular open-mic night every Friday evening, where anyone can drop in to play music or enjoy local talent in the beer garden (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Local bands and singer-songwriters often take the stage here, and the owners proudly promote it as “the favourite Open Mic in Queenstown” (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Each year the brewery also throws larger festivals and theme days tied to its beer culture. For example they have staged an annual Oktoberfest celebration (typically mid-October) with steins of beer and BYO lederhosen, and a German-style “Kölsch Service Day” each fall featuring $8 stangen of the brewery’s house Kölsch beer with table service (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). In November 2023 Searchlight launched its first two-day “Live Local Music Festival,” bringing dozens of regional bands and artists to perform on-site (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Community-themed events – trivia nights (one recent “Friends”-themed quiz fundraising event) and comedy shows – are also common, especially in winter (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (lwb.co.nz ). Searchlight has even hosted touring shows such as a lineup of US stand-up comedians in late 2025, billed as a comedy “takeover” of the South Island (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ).
Performances at Searchlight span genres: local rock, indie and folk bands, plus occasional cover DJs, comedy acts, and cultural festivals. Comedy nights have become a highlight – one seasonal event was headlined by gifted comics from Dunedin and Christchurch, turning the brewery into a festive holiday comedy venue (lwb.co.nz ). Broadly, Searchlight’s program showcases homegrown QLDC talent: as one festival announcement says, it brings together “the finest local talents for a weekend of pure sonic magic” celebrating community spirit (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Many events are casual and moderately priced: open-mic and trivia nights are free or very low cost, while concerts and special festivals usually run from around NZD 10 up to $30-$40 for full-day festivals. For example, their Kölsch Service Day offered all-you-can-drink Kölsch in steins for $8 each, and tickets to multi-act festivals were similarly affordable for the day. With 19 tap beers and a rotating taps program, many events also center on drink specials (often two-for-one deals or feature brews). In short, visitors can expect Friday jam nights, monthly trivia nights, annual beer festivals (Oktoberfest, etc.), live band weekends in summer, and seasonal comedy shows, all frequently updated on the brewery’s announcements.
Tickets and Booking
Ticketing is straightforward but varies by show. Small weekly events like the Friday open-mic or pub trivia are usually free entry or “pay what you wish” – simply drop in and enjoy. Larger events (music festivals, comedy nights, Oktoberfest) require advance tickets. These typically go on sale via the brewery’s own website and local NZ outlets (e.g. Eventfinda) weeks or even months ahead. For popular annual events it pays to book early; Searchlight often announces early-bird specials on social media when festival dates are set. Once on sale, tickets are generally tiered by seating (if any) or early purchase; for example, pre-purchased Oktoberfest tickets included a commemorative stein in 2023. Prices depend on the event format: intimate local shows may be under NZD 20, while multi-act festivals or overseas headliners might reach $30–$40. (As one example, Searchlight’s Kölsch Day was advertised as $8 per unlimited drink. (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz )) There is no traditional box-office counter; tickets are sold online or by phone, and many shows sold out in advance during busy seasons. At the door, they may sell any remaining tickets for smaller gigs, but the trend is to encourage online purchase. It’s best to follow Searchlight’s official channels (their website or email list) for exact on-sale dates. There are no “memberships” or season passes – each event is booked individually, though frequent visitors often watch their Facebook or Instagram to know when new events drop. In any case, general admission is common, so if an event has limited capacity (e.g. a sold-out comedy night), arriving early is wise to secure a good spot.
Seating and Layout
Searchlight’s layout is casual and flexible. The venue is essentially one large rectangular space (an old warehouse) divided between an indoor taproom and an adjacent covered beer garden. The indoor taproom features long communal tables, couches around a wood fire, and a bar; outdoors there are picnic-style benches and an elevated stage for performances. Reviews note that it’s a “small venue with plenty of space” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), meaning there is generally room for everyone but no formal theater-style seating. Most concerts are general admission, so seating is first-come. Guests typically sit on benches or chairs facing the stage, or stand nearer the performance area. The outdoor stage quality is decent for a brewpub – good enough for bands and comedians – but for the best sound expect to be fairly close rather than off to the extreme side. Because the space is not strictly tiered, vantage points near the middle or front of the outdoor section give the clearest view. Indoors, the taproom provides a quieter warming area; during winter many events spill inside, using the board games tables and couches. Acoustically, the brewery can get lively so bring earplugs if you’re sensitive (one reviewer calls the vibe “relaxed” but lively (www.tripadvisor.com.au )). Note that there are no luxury boxes or reserved “VIP” sections – everyone mixes together. The staff are informal; they may reserve a table or two on request, but most seating is first-come. In practice, the “best seats” depend on event type: for a band, near the stage; for a quiet someone, the indoor lounge. One tip from past visitors: parking and arrival crowding can be issues, so arriving early secures better seats and parking (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). In summary, expect a laid-back open-plan pub setup rather than fixed auditorium rows.
Getting There and Parking
Searchlight Brewery is located at 12 Industrial Place, Queenstown 9300 (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). This is on the town outskirts in the Frankton business/industrial area near State Highway 6 (about a 5–10 minute drive east from central Queenstown). Because it’s outside the central tourist zone, planning transport is important. If you’re driving, there is some on-site parking: the TripAdvisor listing notes “free off-street parking” (www.tripadvisor.in ). In practice this lot is fairly small (just a few dozen spaces) and often fills up during major events. Past visitors specifically warn that parking is limited (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), so it’s wise to car-pool or arrive early if you want a spot right by the door. If that lot is full, nearby street parking on Industrial Place is available but watch for any local signage. From downtown Queenstown, taxis and rideshares (Uber/Zoomy etc.) are readily available – the brewery’s sign is visible from the highway and drivers know to drop off at the entrance.
Public transit to the brewery requires a short walk. Queenstown’s Orbus routes serve Frankton, and according to transit guides, buses that pass near Industrial Place include route 4 (Frankton – Queenstown) and a connector line designated “6” (moovitapp.com ). In other words you can phone a taxi from central Queenstown, or catch buses that stop at Frankton Mall and then walk about 500m up Glenda Drive to the brewery. Check the latest timetables, since late-night service is limited: some buses may stop running by 10pm. For late shows, many guests rely on pre-booked taxis or rideshare home. The highway intersection is well-lit, so walking Uber to Frankton or even downtown (about 3km) is possible in a pinch, especially on summer evenings. In summary, driving and parking on-site is the easiest method – and free – but bring warm clothes for any walk from car or bus. The brewery’s address (12 Industrial Place) can be plugged into maps apps to get precise directions (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). It sits just behind the Frankton industrial park, near Country Lane Retail Village. Frankton Mall and the Frankton business area (with supermarkets and chain restaurants) are about 2km away if you need to meet someone or grab a bite first.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Searchlight Brewery, expect a casual craft-beer pub atmosphere. The porta continues advising that you will typically go through a single entrance where staff may glance at ID (it’s an 18+ drinking venue, though families are welcome at many events until late). Bags are not rigorously searched, but large backpacks are discouraged. Inside, a single open space extends around the bar. To your left (in cooler months) is the stone mantle wood fireplace surrounded by comfy chairs and board games – a cozy lounge area described as having “loads of board games” for patrons (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). The right side opens to the taproom bar and tables, and beyond that the outdoor beer garden and stage. The walls are simply decorated with brewery art and logos; the vibe is industrial-casual rather than themed or upscale.
The bar is stocked with their 19 house-made beers, which brew staff serve in pints or tasting paddles. During events it’s common to see beer pitchers or steins (especially at Oktoberfest/Kölsch events) going around. Note that outside beverages are prohibited by NZ law. There is usually one food vendor on site: for much of 2023–2024, “Tacos Jaguar” (a gourmet taco truck) has parked inside the warehouse, offering authentic Mexican-style tacos and burritos (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). In fact, visitor reviews explicitly mention “a taco restaurant inside the brewery with indoor and outdoor seating” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The brewery itself also serves simple comfort food: during some events they fire up wood-oven pizzas and fry burgers and chips (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Menus rotate, but vegetarians can usually find at least fries or bean burritos from Tacos Jaguar. A drink-and-food section on the website lists the current offerings, or you can check the chalkboard menu near the bar when you arrive.
Behind the bar you’ll often find the owners or staff sampling and chatting with customers. Merchandise is sold at the bar: branded pint glasses, t-shirts, and stickers. One review even notes “plenty of merchandise” is on display (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The staff are known to be friendly and typically encourage tastings – reviewers report the bartenders let them sample multiple beers before choosing (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The indoor taproom has ambient lighting and usually low music playing. There is free Wi-Fi, but the focus is on conversation and live shows rather than internet use. Pub trivia nights sometimes take over this inside section, using the projector for questions. Restrooms are clean and on the premises; one is wheelchair accessible (the TripAdvisor page notes “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.in ), which implies an accessible toilet is provided).
If you plan to stay late, note the taproom environment is non-smoking by law, and if you do smoke you must step into the outdoor area away from the door. Coat racks or space beneath tables are available but no formal coat-check is offered – guests usually hang jackets on chair backs or carry them. Most importantly: the atmosphere is always laid-back and communal. Groups of friends sit together sharing flights of beer, and strangers at nearby tables quickly strike up conversation. In summer the outdoor garden (with fairy lights and heaters) buzzes with chatter; in winter the interior with games has a distinctly cosy pub feel. One visitor sums it up: it’s a “really great way to spend an afternoon…really friendly staff” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). The place also has an inclusive vibe – pets on leash are typically allowed outside and wheelchair users can access the main areas. Overall, inside Searchlight is simple and functional, with the emphasis on good beer, good company and occasionally a band or a quiz keeping everyone entertained.
Nearby Amenities
Because Searchlight sits on the edge of Queenstown’s industrial area, immediate nearby amenities are sparse. Within walking distance there are no cafes or shops except perhaps an auto-parts store and a few workshops. The focus here is the brewery itself – it was built in what used to be a warehouse area. The nearest cluster of restaurants and accommodation is roughly 2–3 km away in the Frankton business district. For example, Frankton Mall (on Frankton Road) is a short drive and has a handful of cafes, fast-food outlets and convenience stores open late. Popular spots include Joe’s Garage( for burgers), The Komunal (brunch & pizza) and Taco Medic (Mexican street food) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). These are about a 5-minute drive south from Searchlight. Another nearby local destination is the Country Lane Retail Village (just around the corner toward the airport, off Glenda Drive), which houses boutique shops and artisanal cafes in a rustic farm setting. It has places to eat like a BBQ bar and a wine shop, making it a charming spot for pre- or post- brewpub dining.
If you need to stay overnight near the brewery, several mid-range hotels are within easy reach. Crowne Plaza Queenstown (a full-service lakeside hotel) is about 2 km away on Frankton Road, as is Quest Queenstown (a suite-style apartment hotel) – both visible from State Highway 6. Budget motels and luxury lodges are mainly closer to downtown Queenstown (around 3–4 km from the brewery). If you plan to eat beforehand, those Frankton eateries or downtown Queenstown’s restaurant scene are your best options. One local suggestion is to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your event – this gives time to grab a table, handle parking before a crowd, or stroll to a nearby cafe if early. After-hours, note that central Queenstown stops most public transit by about 10pm; so if your event runs late, it’s wise to pre-arrange a ride back. Taxis and Uber do service the area into the night. For example, a 10 pm departure to central Queenstown costs roughly NZD $20–30 with a taxi. Always confirm that your driver knows “Industrial Place” as it’s not on some old paper maps.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Searchlight Brewery apart. Architecturally it’s a converted warehouse, giving it an authentic industrial aesthetic (exposed beams, concrete floors) that feels very different from Queenstown’s Alpine-styled taverns. This repurposing of an old tortilla factory into a warm pub and stage space is itself a point of pride (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). Inside, the atmosphere is uniquely Kiwi — very welcoming and unpretentious. Live music and brewery tour circuits in NZ don’t often mix in a casual setting; here you’ll see families, craft aficionados and backpackers mingling.
Culturally, Searchlight has become a community anchor. It champions local culture by hosting “a celebration of music, culture & community spirit” (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). For instance, its home-grown beer festivals (like Oktoberfest) and themed parties are now local traditions, and many residents have a favorite memory there. The brewery also directly supports the arts – comedy nights and fundraisers have brought national comedians to Queenstown and raised money for charities (lwb.co.nz ) (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). In short, it’s not just a place to get a drink, but a creative outlet for the town. As one long-time visitor put it, if you love craft beer or live entertainment “you must come explore this hidden gem” in Queenstown (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).
On the beer side, Searchlight loves experimentation. They regularly release special small-batch brews (seasonals, German styles, NZ hop-forward ales) that you won’t find elsewhere in town. Their Oktoberfest bier and their Kölsch ale are examples of these unique offerings. Because the brews are made on site (the facility houses a 12 hectoliter brew house and canning line), the quality and variety are hallmarks. TripAdvisor reviews frequently praise the “great selection of beers” and the chance to sample rare NZ craft styles (www.tripadvisor.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).
Finally, on a personal note, many visitors love Searchlight simply because the owners and staff treat it like a friendly neighborhood bar. Staff are often behind the bar chatting about each beer’s flavor, and they encourage newcomers to relax and taste freely. Regulars appreciate this personal touch – as one reviewer said, “great music and friendly staff” make it a must-visit (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). That sense of ownership and passion (remember the owner built it brick by brick (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz )) shines through. In a town famous for tourism, a spot like Searchlight feels proudly homegrown. All of these factors give Searchlight Brewery its special character: the combination of hand-crafted beer, a cosy taproom vibe, and a dedication to local culture of music and comedy (lwb.co.nz ) (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The taproom has a level, ramp-free entrance and one accessible restroom, so it’s generally wheelchair-friendly. (TripAdvisor notes the venue is “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.in ).) Service animals are welcome. If you have mobility needs, it’s still a good idea to phone ahead. Inside, tables can be shuffled if needed.
What to bring/not bring: Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink (NZ law requires 18+ for alcohol). A camera or phone is fine – casual photography by patrons is common. You may want to bring a light jacket or blanket if you’ll be outdoors on a chilly night. Avoid large bags; there is no coat check, so carry-ons are taken at your own risk. Don’t bring outside drinks or food. Umbrellas are sometimes discouraged if they block views.
Common mistakes: The biggest pitfall is underestimating parking and weather. On big event days, arrive early so you’re not circling for a spot (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Outdoor concerts get cold after sunset, so dress in layers. Another tip: locals say the outdoor beer garden can be very dusty on dry days, so keep jackets or scarves handy if you’re up front.
Age restrictions and laws: Most events are all-ages until 9pm, but alcohol sales stop at 2am (law) and minors must be supervised. If you’re bringing kids, check the event listing – some gigs (especially late-night comedy or rock) may be 18+. The venue is tobacco-free indoors by law; smoking is only allowed outside in the beer garden.
Dress code: There is no formal dress code – come as you are. Most people are in jeans and flannel shirts or tees. If attending a themed party (e.g. Oktoberfest), costumes are often encouraged but optional. Good shoes are wise if you plan to dance or stand at shows.
Insider tips: Look up event details on Searchlight’s social media for real-time info on food menus and special beer releases. If a show is popular, grab the front bench in the beer garden early for the best view. Loyal locals often sign up for the brewery’s newsletter or Instagram to catch last-minute event tickets. And don’t forget to try flights or beer taster paddles – with so many styles on tap, you can sample a handful in one sitting. The staff are happy to recommend based on your taste. Finally, take a moment to chat with the brewers if you get the chance; visitors always remark that they love hearing the story behind each brew.
What is the address and location of Searchlight Brewery?
Searchlight Brewery is at 12 Industrial Place, Queenstown 9300 (in the Frankton industrial area). This address is just off State Highway 6. It’s about a 5–10 minute drive from central Queenstown. See event listings which confirm “12 Industrial Place, Queenstown” as the location (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ).
Is there parking available at Searchlight Brewery and is it free?
Yes. There is a free parking lot on site with a limited number of spaces (www.tripadvisor.in ). This lot often fills up during big events, so arriving early is recommended. Street parking is also available nearby on Industrial Place. Visitors note “limited parking” on peak days (www.tripadvisor.com.au ), so carpooling or rideshares can help.
How can I get to Searchlight Brewery by public transport?
Queenstown’s local Orbus buses do reach the Industrial Place area. In particular, routes like the #4 bus (Frankton–Queenstown service) stop near the brewery (moovitapp.com ). However, most visitors find it simpler to take a taxi or rideshare. If using the bus, you may need to walk about 5–10 minutes from the nearest stop on Frankton Road to the brewery.
When do events and tickets go on sale for Searchlight Brewery?
Ticket release dates vary by event. Big annual festivals (like Oktoberfest) or concerts are usually announced a few months in advance, often coinciding with the brewery’s social media posts. Smaller events (open mic, trivia) are often free or walk-in. It’s best to follow Searchlight’s official channels or sign up for alerts; they frequently post “tickets on sale now” notices for major shows. For example, an Oktoberfest page reminded guests to buy early (early bird tickets were announced, including a free stein) (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). In general, get tickets online weeks before a big event.
What are typical ticket prices for events at Searchlight Brewery?
Prices depend on the event. Community nights (open mic, trivia) are usually free. Local band gigs might charge around NZD $10–15. Full-day festivals or out-of-town acts can be $25–$40. For instance, a special “Kölsch Service Day” was advertised with $8 stangen of beer (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ), while comedy shows recently ranged about $20–$30. Check the specific event listing: some events include perks (e.g. free souvenir stein at Oktoberfest).
Does Searchlight Brewery have reserved or VIP seating?
No. Searchlight is mostly general admission. Most events use open seating (benches and tables) or standing room. There are no formal VIP sections. For popular shows, arrive early to grab a good spot. During high-demand concerts or food events, the brewery may set aside a small number of tables for reserved groups, but this is rare. By and large, all visitors sit and mingle together in the taproom or beer garden.
Are children allowed at Searchlight Brewery events?
Yes, children may attend events if accompanied by an adult, especially family-friendly ones or early evening shows. However, since it is primarily a bar setting, many events (especially late-night comedy or rock shows) are 18+. Always check the specific event listing: if it’s 18+, that will be clearly stated. Note that NZ law means no alcohol to those under 18, so expect ID checks. For most daytime or early-evening functions, families have been welcomed.
Is Searchlight Brewery wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair-friendly. TripAdvisor notes it as “Wheelchair Accessible” (www.tripadvisor.in ). The main entrance is on one level with no steps, and there is an accessible restroom. If you need assistance, the staff are generally accommodating. The beer garden is on level ground too, but if you plan to enter from the highway side, there is a small ramp.
What food and drink options are available inside Searchlight Brewery?
Searchlight is primarily a brewery, so its star is the 19 taps of craft beer made on-site. They often pour ales, lagers and experimental brews, and flights (paddle of tasters) are popular. Rotating draughts include seasonal specials. On the food side, they have a kitchen that serves casual fare: wood-fired pizza, burgers, fries and the like are on the menu during events (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). A regular vendor on premises is a taco stand (“Tacos Jaguar”), which provides authentic Mexican tacos and burritos (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). You can eat indoors or out. Snacks and nibbles vary, but there is almost always a spicy or campfire-style meat pie, sausage roll or similar pub snack. No outside food/drink is allowed, but the in-house offerings cover most cravings during a gig.
Does Searchlight Brewery have a dress code?
No strict dress code. Dress is casual Kiwi style – think jeans, tees, hoodies. Because events can run outdoors or into the cool night air, many people bring a light jacket or sweater. If it’s a themed event (like Oktoberfest), costumes can be fun but are not mandatory. Boots or sneakers are common, as many patrons stand or move around between a bar and open-air seating. Basically, wear whatever you’d wear to any friendly pub or casual concert.
Is there live entertainment or music every night?
Not every night. Open mic happens most Fridays (check their calendar for exact times), and other nights are used for private events or simply bar service. However, many weekends feature live music or comedy, especially in the warmer months. During the week, it is quieter (perfect for a drink and game). The venue advertises upcoming shows weekly. Always look for “live music” or “gig” notes on their site. On music nights, the beer garden turns into a stage; on other nights it’s a roomy bar scene.
What payment methods are accepted at the brewery?
Searchlight accepts both cash and card payments (credit/debit). They specifically encourage card payments to speed up service, but there is an ATM area in Frankton if needed. No outside food or drink payments apply here – all food must be purchased in-house. Gift vouchers may be available for purchase on site. Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, but you can tip service staff if you like.
How far in advance should I arrive for an event?
It depends on the event. For big festivals or sold-out shows, arrive at least 30–60 minutes early to find parking and a good spot. Lines can form at the door. For smaller events like trivia or regular live music nights, 15–20 minutes early is usually sufficient. The brewery tends to fill up quickly for special events (like comedy nights) and once it’s at capacity they will stop admitting new people. If in doubt, show up early. The beer garden has pre-show seating areas if you need time to grab a drink first.
Can I take photos or videos during events?
Personal photography is allowed and many guests take photos of bands or their friends. The brewery itself is happy for people to capture memories. However, recording professional-quality audio or video (especially with big cameras or lots of lighting) may require permission. A good rule is: photography for personal use and social media share is fine, but commercial filming needs advance approval. Some performers might pause or request an end if a flash or camera obstructs the show, but generally it’s quite relaxed.
What beers is Searchlight Brewery known for?
Searchlight has a diverse beer menu. They specialize in updated takes on European styles (such as their award-winning Kölsch and Oktoberfest Märzen) as well as hop-forward ales. Their lineup often includes IPAs, pale ales, lagers and stouts, all brewed on site. Seasonal and limited releases are common, and they often try new New Zealand varieties. Visitors rave about the “great beer selection” and suggest asking to sample any unknown brew before ordering (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). In short, they make solid craft classics (pilsner, amber ale, porter) and also experiment with unique small batches. Beers are usually around NZD 8–10 per pint, with flights available for tasting multiple styles.
Does Searchlight Brewery have Wi-Fi or phone service?
Searchlight offers free Wi-Fi for customers, but its signal can occasionally be spotty when the venue is crowded. Most people rely on mobile data instead. The location has decent cellular coverage (Vodafone/One NZ works well). In any case, since it’s a social space, visitors usually focus on the live event rather than browsing online. The main signal is outdoors as well as indoors. So yes, you can use your smartphone to check social media or email, but don’t count on super-fast streaming.
Are there any special deals on food or drinks?
Yes. On event days Searchlight often runs specials, like happy hour beer deals or meal combos. For example, during German-themed days they had $8 refills on Kölsch (www.searchlightbrewery.co.nz ). The brewery also occasionally offers “beers of the week” at a discount. It’s common to see deals like $5 pints of session ales between 5-6 pm on quieter nights. If you’re part of a large group, check if they have jugs or pitchers on special. Follow their social media or ask staff on arrival because they’ll usually post daily specials or food promotions (like two pizzas for a set price).
Is there a coat/checkroom or lockers?
No formal cloakroom or lockers are provided. Guests typically keep their coats and bags at their tables or on coat racks if provided. The outdoor area has hooks for jackets, and indoor tables have space underneath. During busy events, large items might get in the way of others, so it’s best to travel light. The bartenders are usually vigilant about watching drinks and can look after small personal items for a moment if needed, but they aren’t responsible for lost belongings.
What is the capacity of Searchlight Brewery?
Searchlight is a medium-sized venue. It can comfortably hold around 100–150 people spread between the indoor taproom and outdoor beer garden (though exact capacity isn’t publicly listed). Festivals and big shows often fill it to this level. Because of this moderate size, events here feel lively but not overwhelmingly crowded. If you’re organizing an event, plan for a few dozen seats plus standing room. For attendees, once it says “sold out,” expect any further guests to stand or be turned away for safety.
What are Searchlight Brewery’s opening hours?
Searchlight’s taproom is generally open seven days a week. TripAdvisor notes it stays open until about 8:00 PM nightly (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). During special concert nights or festivals, they will extend hours well past that (often until midnight or later). For regular visiting hours, they commonly open around 11 AM and close at 8 PM on weekdays, with some flexibility on weekends. Always check the brewery’s announcements or call ahead for exact hours, especially for holiday closures.
Can I buy gift vouchers or merchandise at Searchlight Brewery?
Yes. Searchlight sells branded merchandise in the taproom – typically T-shirts, caps, glassware, and stickers featuring their logo. Gift vouchers or beer packages (e.g. a crate of cans) can also be purchased through the brewery. If you’re looking for gifts, a set of their beers or a brewery tour voucher can be arranged by asking at the bar. Note that quantities are limited by what’s in stock.
Are outside pets allowed at Searchlight Brewery?
Pets on a leash are generally allowed in the outdoor beer garden area (similar to any outdoor public space). However, only service animals are permitted inside the taproom. Common sense applies: if your dog is friendly and can lie quietly, most staff won’t mind on a warm day outside. In winter, since events often move indoors, pets will likely need to stay at home. Always check with staff on arrival if you plan to bring an animal.
