Make Your Own Gin at the Matahui Gin Lab

Making Your Own Gin at the Matahui Gin Lab

If you’re a fan of gin or just curious about the craft behind this popular spirit, the Make Your Own Gin experience at Matahui Gin Lab offers a chance to get hands-on and learn firsthand what makes good gin special. This isn’t just a tasting—it’s an interactive adventure where you design, create, and take home your very own 500ml bottle of bespoke gin.

Two things we love about this experience are its personal touch—being able to choose your botanicals from an extensive, on-site collection—and the insight into sustainable distilling processes, which adds depth to the fun. The only possible downside? The tour’s out-of-the-way location might require a bit of extra drive for some visitors, but we think the scenic rural setting makes up for that.

This experience is particularly suited for gin enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone who enjoys a creative, hands-on activity. It offers both education and entertainment packaged into a memorable two-and-a-half-hour session.

Key Points

• Create your own gin personalized to your taste with expert guidance.
• Learn about sustainable distillation practices in a micro-distillery setting.
• Enjoy award-winning tastings including New Zealand’s Best Botanical Spirit.
• Use on-site botanicals, many grown in a permaculture garden, to craft your unique flavor.
• Small groups (max 10) ensure personalized attention and hands-on involvement.
• A scenic drive to the distillery makes the journey part of the experience.

An in-depth look at the Matahui Gin Lab experience

The Setting: A Scenic, Eco-Friendly Micro-Distillery in Tauranga

Located at 270 Matahui Road in Aongatete, the Matahui Gin Lab sits amid lush New Zealand scenery, offering both a peaceful retreat and an educational hub for spirit lovers. The drive itself is often noted as beautiful—an important consideration for travelers who enjoy a scenic route before their interactive experience begins. The fact that the distillery is small and eco-conscious makes the experience feel exclusive and genuine, a stark contrast to large commercial gin tours.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect in 2.5 Hours

The session starts with a warm welcome from the knowledgeable hosts, led by master distiller Paul, whose passion for gin is contagious. The activity kicks off with an overview of the distillation process, focusing on sustainability and the use of plants in creating flavor. This educational component adds value for those interested in the craft, not just the finished product.

Next, you’ll get to explore the on-site botanicals, many from the permaculture garden, and choose your preferred ingredients. The process of selecting botanicals is both fun and educational—you’re encouraged to think about flavor profiles, balance, and how each plant contributes to the final taste. This is where the experience is most hands-on: you will design your gin, guided by Paul’s expertise, ensuring your creation is well-balanced and uniquely yours.

Once you’ve finalized your recipe, the distilling process begins. While you won’t be involved in the actual distillation (which takes place behind the scenes), you’ll get a detailed explanation of how the micro-distillery harnesses natural power and sustainable methods to produce their spirits. It’s a fascinating look at modern, eco-friendly craft distilling that emphasizes environmental responsibility—something many travelers find inspiring.

Making and Taking Home Your Craft

After about 2 hours of mixing, tasting, and learning, you’ll be presented with your custom 500ml bottle of gin to take home. The value here is clear: you’re not just buying a souvenir; you’re leaving with a fully personalized spirit designed by your own hand. This makes the experience especially memorable and perfect for gifting or keeping as a personal memento of your trip.

Tasting and Beyond: The Cellar Door

Post-creation, you’re invited to enjoy a complimentary tasting at the Cellar Door, sampling the distillery’s award-winning spirits, including the distinguished New Zealand’s Best Botanical Spirit. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the spirits—“the gin was delicious and there was plenty to try.” This tasting provides a perfect opportunity to compare your handcrafted gin with other superb offerings, enhancing your understanding of flavor complexities and pairings.

The Value for Money

At $58.95 per person, the price seems fair when you consider the personalized experience, the takeaway bottle, and the educational component. For gin lovers or those wanting a unique, craft activity, it’s a good deal, especially since the experience is capped at 10 people, ensuring plenty of interaction and individual guidance.

The Review Highlights

Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “Very knowledgeable and friendly. A little out of the way but like all of NZ the drive was beautiful and worth it.” The setting and the staff’s enthusiasm make the experience feel authentic and approachable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits who enjoy DIY projects and learning about craft distilling. It’s also perfect for those wanting a memorable activity that produces a tangible keepsake—your own gin. If you appreciate sustainable practices and local ingredients, you’ll find this experience aligns well with your values. While not suited for very young children or those with mobility issues (given the rural location and walking involved), it’s excellent for adults seeking something different and engaging.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance—most travelers book about 3 weeks ahead to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
• Allow for travel time—the distillery is a bit off the beaten path, so plan for a scenic drive through Tauranga’s surrounding countryside.
• Dress comfortably—you’ll be active in choosing botanicals and learning about distillation, so casual clothes are best.
• Arrive on time—the session lasts about 2.5 hours, so punctuality helps maximize your experience.
• Bring a notebook—if you’re into flavor notes or want to remember your recipe, a small notebook could be handy.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes a guided 2.5-hour gin-making session and a 500ml bottle of your custom gin to take home.
Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions are not mentioned. It’s aimed at adults, especially those interested in spirits.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, the experience is designed to be accessible for gin lovers of all levels, guided by experts.
What makes the distillery eco-friendly?
They harness the power of nature in their distillation process and cultivate botanicals on-site in a permaculture garden.
What’s the best way to get there?
Most visitors drive, enjoying the scenic route; alternative transportation options are not specified.
Can I try their spirits before creating my own?
Yes, you will enjoy a complimentary tasting of their award-winning spirits after your gin is made.

Final thoughts

For travelers seeking a more meaningful, hands-on experience in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, the Matahui Gin Lab offers an exceptional mix of education, creativity, and flavor. It’s a rare chance to craft something personal while learning about sustainable distilling practices in a beautiful setting.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you won’t feel rushed, and the opportunity to take home your own handcrafted gin makes it a memorable keepsake. This experience is a strong value for anyone who appreciates quality spirits, enjoys a bit of DIY fun, or wants a unique story to tell back home.

Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or simply curious about the craft, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Kiwi innovation and hospitality in a picturesque rural locale.

In brief: If you’re after a creative, educational, and tasty activity that leaves you with a personalized souvenir, the Matahui Gin Lab is well worth the drive. It’s authentic, friendly, and offers a delightful way to deepen your appreciation for this beloved spirit.