Panhead Port Road Pilsner has been named Supreme Champion at the 2026 New World Beer & Cider Awards, topping more than 650 beers and ciders entered from producers across New Zealand.
The winning pilsner was selected following three days of blind tasting by an independent panel of expert judges, who assessed entries across a wide range of beer and cider styles.
Judges highlighted the pilsner’s balance, flavour and drinkability, including its citrus-floral hop character and clean, crackery malt base.
The 2026 Top 25 features established brands, craft producers and smaller independent makers, with styles ranging from pilsners and hazy IPAs to fruit ciders, smoothie sours, brewed sodas and alcohol-free products.
For the first time, New World is adding a People’s Choice Award, allowing customers to vote for their favourite product from the Top 25.
Voting opened on August 24 and runs until September 20, with the winning product to be named the 2026 New World Beer & Cider Awards People’s Choice winner. Voters will also go into the draw to win one of 50 $100 New World gift cards.
David Gordon, head of New World, says the awards provide an opportunity to showcase the breadth of products being produced by New Zealand brewers and cidermakers.
“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate the talent, creativity and diversity of New Zealand’s brewing and cidermaking community through the New World Beer & Cider Awards. From well executed classics to completely unexpected flavour combinations, this year’s Top 25 shows just how much choice there is for Kiwi beer and cider drinkers.
“Introducing the People’s Choice Award also gives our customers the opportunity to get involved and have their say. We’re looking forward to seeing which brew they think deserves the top spot.”
