The demand for beer nationwide has dropped significantly, according to new figures.

Stats NZ data shows consumption has dropped by 4 percent, the largest drop in 15 years.

Brewers Association NZ executive director Dylan Firth says smaller breweries have taken a significant hit as consumers look to curb their spending.

"With interest rates being very high and consumers looking to curb their spending, I think a lot of those smaller businesses have been struggling a bit." 

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