Sprig + Fern Brewing Co. beers and ciders are well known around New Zealand, and Sprig + Fern Taverns are popular in their communities with eight in Nelson Tasman and 14 nationwide.
This month we get to know Justin and Barbara Frost who own Sprig + Fern Brightwater.
What do you do for fun if you ever have spare time outside of running your business?
Justin: Hanging out together as a family, BBQs and bike rides.
Barb: We have three daughters aged 3, 4 and 7 so they keep us very busy. We love to get out to the beach or river and explore together.
What made you decide to own and operate Sprig + Fern Brightwater?
Justin: We live in Brightwater and really enjoy the village vibe here. The Sprig + Fern brand is a Nelson Tasman original and it’s great to be a part of it. I also like beer, and the beers are great! 18 taps of beer and cider to choose from!
Barb: We live in Brightwater and love the area/community. Sprig + Fern is a great brand, so when the opportunity came up, we jumped at it.
Favourite craft beer on tap at your tavern currently?
Justin: Crème of the Hop Nectaron Pale Ale - it’s a delicious beer.
Barb: Trifecta Fresh Hop Hazy.
If you could only drink one style of beer for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Justin: Pilsner/Lager, ice cold and crisp.
Barb: Pale Ale.
What makes the Brightwater Tavern special?
Justin: The speakeasy cozy, snug vibe. It’s a community pub hub that feels like an extension of your living room.
Barb: It has a chilled out vibe and it’s a great spot to meet some friends for a pizza and drinks and to just hang out.
Favourite local sports team?
Justin: Tasman Makos.
Barb: Wanderers Pirates.
Favourite National sports team?
Justin: All Blacks.
Barb: The Silver Ferns.
What keeps you motivated to own a business in Nelson Tasman?
Justin: It’s just such a great place to live and raise a family. We have put down roots here and this is home for us. It really is a privilege and pleasure to live here.
Barb: I grew up in the Tasman district, so it’s a dream come true to own a cute little Tavern here.
Favourite part of owning Sprig + Fern Brightwater?
Justin: The people, getting to know our locals and being a part of this awesome community. Also the beers!
Barb: The customers and locals. We have great regulars, they make it all worthwhile and fun.
Offering 18 core beers and ciders on tap, as well as limited release products which are often experimental in style or the hops used.
From hazys through to porter, hard seltzer and ciders, there is something on tap for everyone.
Tues, 3pm-8pm, Wed-Fri, 3pm- 9pm
Sat, 2pm-9pm ,Sun, 2pm-8pm, Monday closed
