124 | BUSINESS Sawmill Brewery T T Karen Phelps Expansion doubles plant capacity The project involves a ground-breaking wastewater treatment system which captures emitted biogas and repurposes it for firing boilers. Coresteel North Harbour is proud to be completing an impressive extension on the iconic Sawmill Brewery in Matakana. The new space is set to help Sawmill expand their capacity and meet growing demand. CORESTEEL & SAWMILL BREWERY 0800 CORESTEEL coresteel.co.nz BREWING SUCCESS: Sawmill Brewery in Matakana has recently undertaken an expansion project, increasing its production capabilities by nearly double. Completed in November the project not only addresses the brewery’s growing demand but is also intricately intertwined with its steadfast commitment to sustainability, says Sawmill Brewery founder Mike Sutherland who owns the company with Kirsty McKay. Collaborating with scientists from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), the project involves a ground breaking brewery wastewater treatment system. The innovative system captures emitted biogas and repurposes it for firing boilers. “With 5-12 litres of wastewater generated for every litre of beer produced, addressing waterwater was critical,” says Mike. “The system uses an anaerobic digester, inspired by pond systems used in farming. This system operates without oxygen, allowing wastewater to sit in the pond for around 30 days, breaking down organic matter. The resulting high-quality water is further treated and then repurposed for farm irrigation.” He says the brewery plans to also restore a wetland area on the site, harkening back to its original state, which will include extensive riparian planting. Mike says Sawmill Brewery proudly holds the distinction of being New Zealand’s only B-Corp certified brewery, a global certification. Mike says that real sustainability, for Sawmill, encompasses environmental, social, and governance aspects, as outlined by B Corp certification criteria. The accolades garnered by Sawmill Brewery are a testament to its unwavering dedication to excellence and sustainability. At the Brewers Guild Awards 2023, the brewery clinched two trophies and 11 medals. Notably, Sawmill Brewery secured the Sustainability Trophy for the fourth consecutive year, establishing one of the longest trophy runs in the awards’ history. Additionally, the brewery’s XPA triumphed in the fiercely competitive International Pale Ale category. In embracing a holistic approach to sustainability, Mike says that Sawmill Brewery’s mission aligns with protecting and preserving shared resources—land, sea, soil, and water. The brewery acknowledges Ngati Manuhiri, on whose ancestral land the Brewery and Smoko Room sit, emphasizing the importance of kaitiakitanga, or guardianship. “Rather than following industry trends, we made independent decisions, paving the way for innovation. For example we were the first craft brewery to embrace canning, showcasing a different packaging philosophy.” Operated by a small, independent team, Sawmill Brewery has been brewing fresh quality beer for 19 years, utilizing New Zealand-grown hops and malted barley. Mike says that independence, for Sawmill, means thinking for themselves, fostering an ethos of resourcefulness and creativity in brewery operations. The company’s journey began in 2004 on the site of a local timber mill established in the 1860s, and in 2016, it relocated to premises just outside Matakana. The Smoko Room, opened in July 2016, serves as more than a place for generous hospitality and 14 beers on tap—it’s a testament to Sawmill’s commitment to local, organic produce, and a reflection of its independence in decision-making. Sawmill Brewery’s relative isolation from the craft beer community over 13 years ago has played a pivotal role in shaping its unique approach, says Mike. “Rather than following industry trends, we made independent decisions, paving the way for innovation. For example we were the first craft brewery to embrace canning, showcasing a different packaging philosophy.” Beyond beer, Sawmill Brewery has evolved into a platform for community engagement, creativity, and sustainability. The brewery actively contributes to community initiatives, supporting local charities, schools, and environmental causes. In partnership with organizations like Everybody Eats and BLAKE, Sawmill Brewery extends its impact beyond the brewing realm.
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