Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula offer a surprisingly rich brewing scene rooted in history and craft. This vibrant beer culture is fueled by local legends like Speight’s Brewery, which has been brewing since the 1800s, and innovative newcomers like Emerson’s Brewery. Whether you’re into tasting some of New Zealand’s best lagers and ales, exploring the brewing process, or enjoying a hearty meal paired with fresh craft beer, these tours deliver. We’re especially fond of the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting for its blend of history, friendly atmosphere, and tasting fun. If you want to see how beer is made from malt to glass, the Emerson’s Brewery Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look that’s hard to beat. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner combines history with hearty local fare. Below is a quick overview of our favorite brewery experiences, each with its own flavor and appeal.
Quick Overview
This list includes guided brewery tours in Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, highlighting both historic and modern breweries. From the classic charm of Speight’s Brewery to the high-tech Emerson’s Brewery, each tour offers a unique perspective on beer making. Whether you prefer a quick tasting, a detailed behind-the-scenes visit, or an evening meal with beer, these options cover a range of interests. Explore the tours below to find the best fit for your trip—each one promises a memorable sip of Otago’s brewing culture.
1. Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting
At number one, the iconic Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting provides a rich dive into New Zealand’s most famous beer brand. This 1 hour 15-minute tour starts with a walk 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 covers over a century of brewing tradition, from the original methods to today’s craft innovations. After the tour, you’ll head to the Tasting Room for an up to 20-minute sampling session, learning how to pour the perfect beer along the way.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group setting, ensuring you can hear the guide clearly and ask questions easily. The $16 price offers excellent value, especially since you get to taste several beers after learning about their history. Reviews highlight Israel’s engaging storytelling and the generous tastings, with many visitors describing it as “very informative” and “great fun.” This tour is perfect for history buffs, beer enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a friendly, relaxed introduction to New Zealand’s brewing heritage.
Bottom Line: The Speight’s Brewery Tour combines historical insight with hands-on tastings in a friendly setting—ideal for those who want to learn and sip without breaking the bank.
2. Emerson’s Brewery Tour
Next up, the Emerson’s Brewery Tour offers a more technical look at brewing. This 1-hour behind-the-scenes experience explores the state-of-the-art 5000L brewery and the 1200L workshop, giving you insight into the machinery and craft behind each batch. The tour begins with a detailed walk through the brewing process—from the malt room to fermentation, bottling, and packaging—culminating in a guided tasting of their signature beers.
What makes this tour special is its focus on the science and craftsmanship of brewing. Guides like Sam, a knowledgeable host, share stories about how Emerson’s started and what makes their beer unique. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see modern brewing technology up close, especially if they’re interested in the mechanics or engineering side of beer production. The $24.82 price is reasonable for such an in-depth look, and reviews mention the clarity of explanations and the enjoyable tastings. Note that the guide wears an attractive, high-visibility waistcoat, adding a bit of fun to the experience.
Bottom Line: The Emerson’s Brewery Tour is perfect for those interested in the how and why of brewing, with a hands-on approach that demystifies the process and finishes with a satisfying tasting.
3. Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner
For a more immersive experience, Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner combines the best of history, beer, and hearty food. This 1 hour 15-minute tour includes a visit to the historic Brew Floor alongside the modern brewery, offering a rare chance to see both brewing worlds under one roof. After exploring the facilities, you’ll enjoy a local hearty dinner at the original Speight’s Ale House, paired with some of their finest beers.
This tour is ideal if you want a full evening of entertainment—learning about New Zealand’s oldest operational brewery while sampling traditional Southern fare. The price of $48.28 reflects the added value of a sit-down meal in a comfortable pub setting, making it a great choice for foodies and history lovers alike. Guests frequently rave about the combination of authentic beer experience and friendly atmosphere. The tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, social evening with plenty of opportunities to chat about brewing and local culture.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a substantial experience that combines history, good food, and local beer, this tour offers a memorable night out.
How to Choose the Best Brewery Tour
Deciding between these options mainly depends on your interest level and schedule. If you’re after a quick introduction with some tastings, the Speight’s Guided Tour is perfect. For a deeper dive into brewing technology, the Emerson’s tour offers a fascinating, technical perspective. Looking for a relaxed evening with food? The Speight’s Dinner tour combines both history and hearty local fare.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you’re more interested in the history, the science, or the social side of beer. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons, as these tours are popular.
Final Thoughts
Dunedin and Otago Peninsula provide a diverse array of brewery experiences for beer lovers and curious travelers alike. The Speight’s Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting makes for an engaging and affordable introduction, especially for those interested in history. The Emerson’s Brewery Tour appeals to those keen on understanding the brewing process in detail, while the Speight’s Brewery Tour & Dinner offers a hearty, social evening.
No matter which you choose, you’re sure to gain a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s brewing craft and enjoy some quality beers along the way. Be sure to book your preferred tour in advance—these experiences tend to fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Cheers to a great trip and plenty of good beer discoveries!