Last updated July 2026
Tui HQ is the visitor centre at the historic Tui Brewery site in Mangatainoka, about 50 km east of Palmerston North on State Highway 2. The site has hosted brewing activity since Henry Wagstaff established operations on the banks of the Mangatainoka River in 1889. Public brewery tours ended in August 2024 after 25 years, and main beer production at the site ceased the same year. Today the focus is on beer tasting sessions including the self-guided Tuiversity experience, the free HisTui museum, a cafe and garden bar, and a programme of community events. The iconic seven-storey Tui Tower remains a prominent Heritage New Zealand Category 1 landmark visible from the highway.
Practical Information
| Location | State Highway 2, Mangatainoka, Tararua district |
| Distance from Palmerston North | About 50 km east, 45-50 minute drive |
| Visitor activities | Beer tasting trays, self-guided Tuiversity beer masterclass, free HisTui museum, cafe, garden bar, shop |
| Brewery tours | Public tours ended August 2024; no longer offered |
| Production status | Main beer production ceased August 2024 |
| Monthly event | Mangatainoka Motors Car Days, last Sunday of each month |
| Annual event | Tui Truck Stop Show & Shine |
| Owner | DB Breweries |
About Tui Brewery
Tui Brewery traces its origins to 1889 when Henry Wagstaff set up on the Mangatainoka River after noting the quality of the local water. In 1903 Wagstaff sold the operation to Henry Cowan, who developed the East India Pale Ale that became central to the brand. The brewery was renamed Tui Brewery in 1923.
The most recognisable feature is the Tui Tower, a seven-storey brick structure completed in 1931 to allow gravity-fed brewing. Builders initially omitted stairs and a lift, an oversight later corrected. The tower is listed as a Heritage New Zealand Category 1 historic place and remains visible from State Highway 2.
Tui grew into a national brand from the 1950s. The site stayed part of DB Breweries, with production continuing alongside other facilities until the main brewing operations closed in August 2024. The visitor centre and associated hospitality now operate on the historic grounds.
What’s at Tui HQ
Following the end of public tours and on-site production, Tui HQ centres on hospitality and heritage experiences. Visitors can sample beers via tasting trays or complete the self-guided Tuiversity beer masterclass. The free HisTui museum presents the brewery’s history from the Wagstaff and Cowan eras through the tower construction and the brand’s later marketing campaigns.
A cafe offers a locally inspired menu while the garden bar provides outdoor seating. The shop stocks Tui merchandise and packaged beers. The site continues to host events that draw both locals and visitors.
Events at Tui HQ
Monthly Mangatainoka Motors Car Days take place on the last Sunday of each month, featuring classic and performance vehicles. The annual Tui Truck Stop Show & Shine is a larger gathering that includes truck displays, judging categories, and related activities. Additional one-off events such as concerts are listed on the official site as they are scheduled.
Getting There from Palmerston North
The Pahiatua Track route climbs through the Tararua Ranges and takes about 45 minutes, though it is winding. An alternative via Ashhurst, the Te Ahu a Turanga highway, and SH2 south through Woodville is longer in distance but offers easier driving conditions and takes around 50 minutes. The site can be combined with nearby spots such as the Mangatainoka River Reserve or Tararua Lake Domain in Pahiatua for a longer outing.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe Tui HQ as a worthwhile stop for the historic tower, free museum, tasting options, and relaxed garden bar setting. Many note the recent shift away from brewery tours and on-site production but still rate the current tastings, cafe, and events positively.
Practical feedback highlights the need to book tables for busy periods, the scenic but winding nature of the Pahiatua Track, and the appeal of the monthly car days for enthusiasts. The self-guided masterclass and museum are frequently mentioned as accessible highlights.
Where to Learn More
Tui HQ official site: current tastings, menu, events, bookings and shop details.
Tui Our Story (DB Breweries): brand history from 1889 founding through to the present.
Heritage New Zealand: Brew Tower: Category 1 listing details for the 1931 tower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are brewery tours still offered?
No. Public brewery tours ended in August 2024 after running for 25 years. The current focus is on tastings, the self-guided Tuiversity experience, the museum, cafe and bar.
Is beer still produced at Mangatainoka?
No. Main production at the site ceased in August 2024 after more than 130 years of brewing activity.
Where is Tui HQ?
On State Highway 2 at Mangatainoka, south of Pahiatua in the Tararua district, roughly 45-50 minutes’ drive east of Palmerston North.
When was Tui Brewery founded?
1889 by Henry Wagstaff on the banks of the Mangatainoka River. Henry Cowan acquired it in 1903 and the site was renamed Tui Brewery in 1923.
What is the Tui Tower?
The seven-storey brick brew tower completed in 1931 to enable gravity-fed brewing. It is a Heritage New Zealand Category 1 listed landmark.
Is the museum free?
Yes. The HisTui museum at Tui HQ is free to visit.
Are there regular events?
Yes. Mangatainoka Motors Car Days run on the last Sunday of each month and the annual Tui Truck Stop Show & Shine is held each year. Check the Tui HQ website for dates and details.
What is the best way to get there from Palmerston North?
The Pahiatua Track offers a shorter but winding route of about 45 minutes. The alternative via Ashhurst and the Te Ahu a Turanga highway is around 50 minutes with easier driving conditions.
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