Northern Ireland-born founder of Kiwi brewery dies age 71

The Northern Ireland-born founder of New Zealand’s Cassels Brewing Company has died after a battle with cancer.

Alasdair Cassels, above, who was 71, moved to England as a child before his family eventually settled in New Zealand.

He went on to found Cassels Brewing, a family owned and operated craft beer brewery in Woolston, Christchurch.

The brewery has won numerous awards since launching in 2009, including World’s Best American-Style Pale Ale and two consecutive wins for World Best Milk Stout (2019-20), outshining the likes of Diageo-owned Guinness and other famous brands.

His partner  Bridget Taylor, said: “Alasdair’s family are devastated by his death. He gave us so much in his life, so much of himself.”

He invested in the brewery after the 2011 earthquake, and after 100 days it was reborn to include a bar, café, music venue and restaurant.

They now export to the United Kingdom, United States and China.

Cassels also bought the Tannery in Woolston in 1994, and opened a boutique shopping mall.

Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel said Cassels created a “real legacy” with the outstanding redevelopment of the Tannery and he was always willing to reach out and support the community.

“He’s left behind a lovely and talented family. His children and grandchildren are unbelievably talented.”