Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula are perfect for brewery tours thanks to their rich brewing tradition and scenic settings. While the region is famous for its stunning landscapes and historic architecture, it also offers some of New Zealand’s best brewery experiences. I particularly appreciate how Speight’s Brewery combines history with interactive tastings, making it a must-visit for beer lovers. Their guided tour & tasting offers a relaxed, small-group atmosphere where you can learn about over a century of brewing history and see the historic brewery floors firsthand. For a more indulgent experience, their brewery tour & dinner pairs the tasting with hearty southern fare in the original Ale House. And if you’re into craft breweries, Emerson’s brewery tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at a state-of-the-art brewery, perfect for science and machinery enthusiasts alike.
What makes this collection special is the variety — from historic tours to modern craft brewing insights, there’s something to satisfy different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after a quick, informative visit or a full evening with food and beer, these tours deliver a taste of Dunedin’s vibrant brewing scene.
1. Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting
At number 1, we have the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting, which is a standout for its blend of history, interaction, and affordability. This tour lasts about 75 minutes and takes you through both the historic and modern parts of the brewery, which has been operating on the same site since the mid-1800s. The guided experience is small-group, ensuring you can ask questions and get personalized insights. You’ll visit iconic brewing areas, see the equipment, and learn about the process that has made Speight’s a household name in New Zealand.
What really makes this tour shine is the beer tasting at the end, where you sample several beers and even get a demonstration on pouring the perfect pint. Many reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, as well as the generous tastings—some guests say it’s as much about the history as the beers. It’s priced reasonably at around $27.44 per person, making it excellent value for a fun, informative experience. Perfect for those who want a mix of education and straightforward enjoyment without a heavy time commitment.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in local beer history, small-group intimacy, and high-quality samples, this tour is a top pick.
2. Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner
At number 2, the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner provides a deeper dive into the brewery’s legacy paired with a hearty meal. This experience is slightly longer and costs a bit more—around $48.28 per person—but offers a full immersion into the “Pride of the South” brand. You’ll explore the historic brew floor and the modern brewery, seeing how they preserve tradition while embracing innovation.
What sets this apart is the included dinner at Dunedin’s original Ale House, where you enjoy authentic New Zealand fare with your beer. This makes it perfect for travelers who want a leisurely evening with good food and a chance to chat more with guides and fellow beer enthusiasts. Because it attracts over 25,000 visitors annually, it’s clearly a popular choice for both locals and travelers. Reviewers mention the authentic experience and the sense of being part of a brewing tradition.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a full experience combining history, tasting, and a relaxed dinner in a historic setting.
3. Emerson’s Brewery Tour
Coming in at number 3, the Emerson’s Brewery Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at a modern, high-capacity brewery. Lasting about an hour, this tour is perfect for science-minded travelers or anyone curious about the brewing process from start to finish. You’ll visit the malt room, see the fermentation tanks, and get a practical look at how Emerson’s creates its range of beers, including their 5000L brewing setup and 1200L workshop.
What makes this tour different is the detailed explanation of each step, alongside a guided tasting session at the end. Guests comment on the knowledgeable guide, Sam, and the clarity with which complex processes are explained. Practical and engaging, it’s well-suited for those interested in the mechanics of brewing or craft beer fans wanting a deep dive into modern techniques. At roughly $24.43, it’s also a very budget-friendly option.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for technology lovers or craft beer aficionados keen to see a state-of-the-art brewery operate behind the scenes.
How to Choose
Picking the best brewery tour depends on your interests and schedule. For a quick, friendly introduction to Dunedin’s brewing history, the Speight’s Guided Tour & Tasting offers excellent value. If you want a more leisurely experience with a meal, the Speight’s Dinner Tour is perfect. For craft beer fans or those interested in the technical side of brewing, the Emerson’s Brewery Tour delivers a detailed behind-the-scenes look.
Consider your budget, how much time you have, and whether you prefer historic ambiance or modern brewing insights. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Dunedin and Otago offer a delightful range of brewery tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re after history, great food, or technical brewing details. The Speight’s guided tour is a fantastic all-round choice, especially for those wanting a good mix of education and tasting. For a more immersive experience with dinner, the Speight’s dinner tour stands out. Meanwhile, craft beer lovers and tech enthusiasts will appreciate the Emerson’s behind-the-scenes look at a modern brewery.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these flavorful and informative experiences. Cheers to discovering Dunedin’s brewing scene—your taste buds will thank you!