Tucked away in the heart of the North Shore, The NZ Rum Co. is quietly rewriting the rules of New Zealand distilling. Helmed by Rob O’Connell, an independent and innovative local distiller, this boutique operation is turning heads with its multi-award-winning rum and gin – all handcrafted and locally loved.

The maker behind the magic
At the heart of The NZ Rum Co. is Rob O’Connell, North Shore local legend and the driving force behind some of New Zealand’s most awarded small-batch spirits. Rob doesn’t just distil – he crafts, innovates and elevates. From fine-tuning every detail of the process to crafting new blends, he’s a maker in the truest sense: restless in pursuit of better, with an instinct for refining even the smallest elements. His ethos is rooted in craftsmanship without compromise. Whether he’s experimenting with sugarcane grown just metres from the distillery or producing award-winning spirits like Mcjaggery White Rum or Daydream Gin, Rob brings a rare mix of technical precision and creative instinct to everything he does. He’s deeply passionate about flavour – constantly experimenting with new ingredients, distillation and blending techniques to coax out new layers of depth and character in his rums and gins. He’s known for setting a high bar – quietly, without fuss – and crafting spirits that speak for themselves. "Every batch teaches you something. The goal is always the same: make the next one even better!" says Rob.

Loved by locals
The NZ Rum Co.’s spirits aren’t just handcrafted on the Shore – they’re celebrated here, too. Rob’s creations have become a fixture across some of the North Shore’s most respected hospitality venues, including Vondel, Hauraki Social Club and other local favourites that value craft, character and community. You'll also find bottles on the shelves at boutique liquor stores like Liquorland Devonport and Hauraki Corner Cellars, where staff recommend them with genuine pride. This grassroots support has helped The NZ Rum Co. grow organically through trust, consistency and real connection. It’s the kind of local following that doesn’t just buy in – it backs the story, shares it and pours it with purpose.

Taste the craft. Discover the journey
The NZ Rum Co. offers guided distillery tours for those curious to see where the magic happens. Visitors are welcomed into one of New Zealand’s best-equipped craft distilleries, where oak barrels, a gleaming copper still, and even sugarcane grown just metres from the distillery tell the story of true, innovative spirit-making. You’ll learn how rum is aged, how gin is distilled, and how every bottle is handcrafted with care – often by Rob himself. It’s the perfect way to experience the craft up close, ask questions and maybe even taste something special before it hits the shelves!

Tours are available by appointment - email info@thenzrumco.nz to book
Find out more by visiting thenzrumco.nz
Follow us on Insta @nzrumco and @daydreamgin

Pop in for a pour!
Cellar door open – 24 May
11am–5pm | Moksha & NZ Rum Co.
14D Parity Place, Hillcrest
Tastings, bottle sales and a good chat!

Proud local supporters of The NZ Rum Co. & Moksha Drinks
Hauraki Corner Cellars, Hauraki Social Club, Vondel and Liquorland Devonport and Takapuna

Photo credits: Rob Menezes and Simeon Patience for The Collective Force