Tracy Banner, owner of Sprig + Fern brewery in Nelson, has been recognized with the inaugural People Award at the New Zealand Beer Awards in Dunedin. The award, presented during the 2026 ceremony, marks a significant achievement for Banner and her team. The event, held in Dunedin, celebrated excellence in the brewing industry across New Zealand.

Banner’s win highlights the growing reputation of local breweries and the impact of small-scale craft beer production. The People Award, a new addition to the Beer Awards, aims to recognize individuals who contribute to the community and the industry. This honor underscores the importance of personal dedication and innovation in the beer-making process.

The ceremony in Dunedin brought together industry professionals and enthusiasts, showcasing the diversity and quality of New Zealand’s beer scene. With this award, Tracy Banner joins a growing list of local brewers making waves in the national market.