As more people continue to look at their relationship with alcohol and how they are drinking – the ‘sober curious’ movement is gaining momentum.
This has seen a rise in the number of alcohol-free drink options available and the opening of New Zealand's first-ever alcohol-free bottle shop in Ponsonby Central by Kiwi entrepreneur and founder of AF Drinks and Eat My Lunch, Lisa King.
Open until 31 July 2022, The Curious AF Bottle Shop is offering New Zealanders the opportunity to taste and buy some of the world’s finest alcohol-free drinks, including all nine of the AF drinks range and a curated collection of wine, beer and spirits from around the globe.
Likened to a beautiful art installation, The Curious AF Bottle Shop delivers a modern twist on the traditional liquor store. From the moment you step through the doors, you can expect to be wowed with a journey of discovery that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
We caught up with Lisa to hear how it has been received; “We have been blown away by the reactions and response to the store and our AF drinks range, both by Ponsonby locals and people who have travelled into Ponsonby to visit us.
“Our Curious AF journey started when we created the delicious and stylish range of ready-to-drink bottles and cans. Crafted to give the flavourful complexity of alcoholic drinks without the alcohol and using all natural flavours, all AF Drinks contain Afterglow, a natural botanical that leaves a warming sensation on the palette and in the body, similar to an alcoholic beverage, just without the alcohol.
“The Curious AF Bottle Shop felt like a natural next step, designed to continue our mission and normalising the choice of not drinking. We wanted New Zealanders to visit this exciting space and feel encouraged that cutting back or giving up alcohol does not need to be boring, showing people they do not need to miss out.
“We are seeing more Kiwis looking to moderate their alcohol consumption in various ways. This seems to be largely driven by people looking to live healthier lifestyles. I love hearing from our store visitors, so many people have shared their personal stories with me.
“It is so exciting seeing people leave our shop feeling uplifted and empowered, choosing not to drink, be it on a night out, during July or even longer-term. This was our vision for the store, so watching it come to life is cool AF! We are here until the end of July and can’t wait to welcome more visitors,” Lisa enthuses.
What: The Curious AF Bottle Shop – Pop Up Store & Experience.
When: Now – Sunday, 31st July 2022. Open daily between 10am - 6pm
Where: Ponsonby Central, Shop 4a,136-146 Ponsonby Road.
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