One of the best things about backpacking is that any time can be beer o'clock.
And there's no better way to spend an afternoon than noseying around a brewery, especially when it's New Zealand 's West Coast Monteith's Brewery.
Monteith's brewery, based in the west coast town of Greymouth , do tours where you can have a squiz around the place and check out first-hand how the beer is made in open fermenters by coal-fired boilers.
You'll also hear all about the traditions which are still living on today, and learn about each beer's origins.
"get the chance to go behind the bar and pour your own"
And the best thing is at the end of tour, you'll get the chance to go behind the bar and pour your own. See how many different beers you can try, then pick your favourite.
Mine's a Golden, what's yours?
Brewery tours are available from Monday to Sunday at 11.30am, 2pm, 4pm and 6pm.
Tours cost $15 per person.
Pre-book through the Monteith's Brewing Company on (03) 768 4149 for the tour or email anne.thomas@monteiths.co.nz .
There's also a great tour and meal deal option where you can dine out at one of the local pubs (you can choose from three) after you've finished the brewery tour.
*** Rachel stayed at Noah's Ark Backpackers, 16 Chapel Street , Greymouth. The best thing about Noah's Ark is that each room is animal themed, so you can crouch with the tiger, hide with the zebra or sleep next to the sheep.
For more information call 0800 662 472 or 03 768 4868 or email stay@noahs.co.nz
