Food and photography by Olivia Galletly

We’re just a little bit obsessed with cricket here, and have been rocking the wicket this summer by pairing up with Radio Hauraki’s infamous ACC (Alternative Commentary Collective), who’ve been rattling their daiquiris at Black Caps games around the country making some awesome drinks in the Liquorland Cocktail Hour. You can see all of the drink recipes here. 

Of course we always recommend you graze while you liaise, so to keep you in good shape for the remaining month’s-worth of coverage of Black Caps vs India and Bangladesh games here’s our pick of the best beer and easy-to-make bar snack matches. All beers available at Liquorland stores nationwide...
 

Steinlager Tokyo Dry

Japanese brewing techniques meet raw New Zealand ingredients for a thirst-quenching pale lager with a deliciously crisp finish.

TRY WITH Panko and sesame prawns with wasabi mayo
 

Little Creatures Pale Ale

Made with whole hop flowers this beer is bursting with citrus and stone fruit and a decent hit of bitterness.

TRY WITH Bhuja mix with crispy fried garlic and curry leaves
 

Emerson’s Big Rig APA

A beautifully balanced beer with a truckload of hops, tropical and citrus flavours, and a sweet malt base that brings a touch of caramel.

TRY WITH Honey, cumin and mustard seed nuts
 

Panhead Port Road Pils Pilsner

South Pacific hops push the classic pilsner towards flavours of passionfruit and grapefruit plus sauvignon blanc characters.

TRY WITH Spicy pineapple salsa with paprika oven-baked tortilla crisps
 

Mac’s Miss Conduct Dry Hopped Pilsner

A crisp pilsner with an unexpected punch of hops expertly balanced with sweet malt flavours and zesty citrus notes.

TRY WITH Prawn and chive dumplings with chilli crisp dipping sauce
 

Speight’s 5 Malt Old Dark

This classic dark beer is made with five different roasted malts for a big creamy brew with notes of chocolate fudge and coffee.

TRY WITH Slow-cooked beef mince pies and sauce