The Story of Brewtown Upper Hutt: A Vision Brewed to Life

Nestled in the heart of Upper Hutt, Brewtown has become a hub of craft beer, entertainment, and community—a vibrant transformation of what was once an industrial space. But the journey of Brewtown didn’t begin with clinking glasses and live music; it began with a bold vision and a unique collaboration between dreamers, entrepreneurs, and a supportive city council led by Mayor Wayne Guppy.

The Spark of an Idea

It all started when a local entrepreneur, Phil Grigg, saw potential in the former Dunlop Tyres factory—a large, underutilized industrial space that once echoed with the sounds of manufacturing. Grigg imagined a place where local breweries, distilleries, eateries, and entertainment could all co-exist under one roof, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in Upper Hutt. He dreamed of turning the space into something that would not only create jobs but bring life and pride to the community.

But transforming a factory into a thriving entertainment precinct was no small feat. It required investment, infrastructure, planning approvals—and, most importantly, support from local government.

The Mayor Who Believed

Enter Mayor Wayne Guppy. Known for his deep commitment to the people and growth of Upper Hutt, Mayor Guppy saw Grigg’s vision not as a long shot, but as an opportunity to elevate the city’s profile. From the very beginning, Guppy and the Upper Hutt City Council were behind the project, helping to remove bureaucratic roadblocks and guiding it through regulatory processes with enthusiasm and speed rarely seen in civic developments.

Mayor Guppy also understood the economic ripple effect Brewtown could have—boosting tourism, supporting local artisans, and creating a fresh identity for Upper Hutt. He helped foster connections between the Brewtown team and other key players in the region, offering city backing that made investors take notice.

From Factory Floors to Brewery Tours

With support from the city and the determination of its founders, Brewtown officially opened, welcoming craft breweries like Panhead Custom Ales, Boneface Brewing Company, and Te Aro Brewing. Over time, it expanded to include distilleries, cafes, food trucks, axe-throwing arenas, ice skating rinks, and live music venues. What was once concrete and machines became laughter, clinking pints, and the hum of community life.

Brewtown quickly became a destination not just for locals, but for visitors from across the Wellington region and beyond. Its success has put Upper Hutt on the map as a key player in New Zealand’s craft brewing scene.

A Legacy in the Making

Today, Brewtown stands as a symbol of what can happen when visionaries and civic leaders come together with a shared belief in progress. Mayor Guppy’s role was not just administrative—he was a champion, an enabler, and an advocate for innovation in his city.

As Brewtown continues to grow with new attractions and events, it’s clear that its story is still being written. But one thing remains certain: the roots of Brewtown’s success lie in community spirit, creative risk-taking, and a mayor who knew that sometimes, the best ideas just need someone to say, “Let’s make it happen.”

More from Nonstop :
Damon Mc Andrew Tafatu: Wellington’s Strength Icon Leading the Way

Q&A: Inside the Digital Journey of Graham ‘Bloxi’ Bloxham