As June comes to a close, New Zealand is gearing up for its annual Rum Month in July, a time to celebrate the spirit with limited-edition cocktails designed to warm the soul during the winter chill. Appleton Estate has partnered with some of the top bars in the country, creating exclusive rum cocktails that you won’t find elsewhere.

From the cozy vibes of underground speakeasies to vibrant neighborhood bars, here are the must-try rum cocktails across the North and South Islands.

North Island Highlights

Sardine, Auckland

Sardine, the drink-savvy sister bar to White and Wong’s, features six rum cocktails for just $20 each, offering a variety to suit every palate.

The Grange, Takapuna

Known for its Grange Signature cocktail, this bar combines Appleton Estate rum with Campari, passionfruit, fresh lime, and egg white for a vibrant and bittersweet experience.

Deadshot, Ponsonby

This bar presents a new Aperitivo Menu, with the Blackbeard’s Fix cocktail mixing Appleton Signature rum with black tea and lemon for a refreshing take.

Bar Mea, Auckland CBD

Bar Mea introduces the Tropical Hummingbird, combining Appleton Estate 8yo rum with Aperol, passionfruit, and a mango foam, available Thursday to Sunday.

Park Hyatt, Auckland CBD

Captain’s Bar offers a refined experience with a bespoke rum flight featuring three Appleton Estate expressions, complemented by flavor-packed pairings.

Panacea, Auckland CBD

This unique bar serves a cocktail called Universally Speaking, featuring Appleton Estate Rum mixed with mango, lychee, and ume sake.

Albert’s Post, Mount Albert

Enjoy the Pineapple Ginger Rumbada, a blend of Appleton Estate Rum served in a hollowed-out pineapple, bringing tropical vibes to Mount Albert.

Nightcar, Auckland CBD

A more intimate setting, Nightcar serves a trio of Appleton Estate cocktails, perfect for pairing with their modern Chinese menu.

The Corner, Remuera

This local favorite presents a bold Old Fashioned, offering a refined twist on a classic cocktail.

Picnicka, Tauranga

Known for island-inspired cocktails, Picnicka serves the Black River Joy, Nassau Sour, and Three Push, One Steer, each packed with depth and creativity.

South Island Highlights

SODA, Queenstown

SODA’s Sunset Sip combines Appleton Estate Signature Rum with Amaro, Graham’s Port, and cinnamon, creating a rich, warming cocktail.

Habana Rum Bar, Queenstown

Tucked away in the laneways, Habana’s Rum Reverie blends Appleton Estate rum with tropical flavors, echoing classic tiki cocktails.

Little Blackwood, Queenstown

Famed for its nightlife, Little Blackwood serves a reimagined Mai Tai using the ultra-rare Appleton Estate 17YO, showcasing a housemade pistachio orgeat.

O.G.B. Christchurch

Offering a mix of vintage vibes and live music, OGB features the Vin Brûlé Tai—a spicy rum blend with mulled wine syrup, alongside two other standout cocktails.

Austin Club, Christchurch

This hidden gem presents the Hokey Pokey Mai Tai, mixing Appleton Estate Rum with a nostalgic Kiwi twist for a unique take on a classic.

Bloody Mary’s, Christchurch

At Bloody Mary’s, enjoy two unique cocktails featuring Appleton Estate 12-Year rum—the savory Butcher’s Pour and the spicy Irie.

For detailed information on participating venues and their unique offerings this Rum Month, visit Appleton Estate.