Speight's is as much a part of Dunedin's identity as the Octagon or the railway station. The brewery was founded in the 1870s by a group of partners that included James Speight, and it has brewed on the same Rattray Street site since 1876, making it one of the oldest working breweries in the country. Its Gold Medal Ale became a national favourite, and the brand has long been marketed as the pride of the south. A tour takes you behind the scenes of the brewery, with a guide explaining the history of the company and the process of turning malt, hops, yeast and water into beer. You will see the brewhouse, the fermentation and the packaging areas, and hear stories of the people who have worked there. The tour ends with a guided tasting of several beers, giving you a chance to compare styles and learn how to taste like a brewer. The experience is a fun and affordable way to spend an hour or two, especially on a wet day, and it gives a sense of the practical, friendly culture of the city. The linked ticket covers the tour and tasting, with other add-ons sometimes offered.
How to visit
The brewery is on Rattray Street, a short walk from the Octagon, so it is easy to reach on foot or by public transport. Tours run at set times, usually several a day, and last around an hour and a half, including the tasting. Book ahead in busy periods, and arrive a little early. There is usually an age limit for the tour because of the brewery environment, so check the policy before bringing children.
What to expect
Tours begin with a short introduction to the company, then move through the working parts of the brewery. You will need closed shoes, and the guide will issue safety instructions. The brewery can be warm and noisy, and there are stairs to climb. Tasting includes a flight of beers, which may include seasonal or limited releases. Non-alcoholic options are sometimes offered for those who do not drink. Operating brewery tours depend on the production schedule, so the experience can vary a little from day to day.
Making the most of it
Pair the tour with a meal at the brewery's ale house, which serves hearty food and local beer, and which makes a good place to rest your feet. If you are interested in craft beer, compare it with a visit to another Dunedin brewery to see how tastes differ. Eat before you go, drink water between tastings and avoid driving afterwards. A taxi or a walk back to the city centre is the best option if you plan to indulge.
Good to know
Dunedin has a long brewing tradition tied to its Scottish heritage and the thirst of gold rush miners, and it was once home to many breweries. Speight's survived changes of ownership and fashion to become a national brand, and its distinctive stone building is a landmark in the old brewing district.
The company has been involved in community sponsorship and rugby, which is part of the local identity. The brewery shop sells branded merchandise, and some tours offer a chance to pour your own beer, so it is worth asking about options when you book.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour through a working heritage brewery ending in a tasting of several beers.
Best time
Any time of year, with the tour a good wet-weather or late-afternoon activity.
How long
1.5 hours
Tips
Wear closed shoes, eat beforehand and arrange a taxi or walk home if you plan to taste.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beer lovers and anyone curious about Dunedin's brewing heritage.
- Families
- Not ideal for young children because of age limits and the brewery environment.
- Couples
- A relaxed, sociable activity with a good story at the end.
- Pair with
- A meal at the brewery's ale house or a stroll through the Octagon.
- Time needed
- 1.5 hours
Good questions
Where is the Speight's brewery?+
It is on Rattray Street in central Dunedin, a short walk from the Octagon.
How long does the tour take?+
About an hour and a half, including the tasting.
Are children allowed?+
There is usually an age limit because of the brewery environment, so check before you book.
What do I wear?+
Closed shoes are required and layers are helpful, as the brewery can be warm.
Is the tour accessible?+
The tour includes stairs and uneven areas, so ask about access when you book.