Beer lovers will find three standout brewery tours in Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula.
The practical and historically rich Speight Brewery Small Group Tour shows you how New Zealand’s oldest brewery operates, complete with generous tastings (and a stellar 93% visitor approval).
For craft beer enthusiasts, Emersons Brewery delivers a more intimate experience, pairing fresh beer samples with good food in a modern facility.
My favorite option is the Brews and Views tour – it’s a well-organized private excursion that connects you with Dunedin’s best craft breweries while showcasing city highlights.
Let’s explore these memorable beer tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Speight Brewery Small Group Guided Tour offers a behind-the-scenes experience of a renowned beer producer in central Dunedin with a 93% recommendation rate.
- Emersons Brewery Tour provides an intimate look at a notable craft beer producer on the Otago Peninsula, including a tasting tray and lunch/dinner.
- Brews and Views: A Private Tour of Dunedin’s Craft Beer Scene showcases the city’s vibrant craft beer scene, starting at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery.
- Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula offer a range of drinking tours that cater to different interests, group sizes, and accessibility requirements.
- The tours provide insights into brewery operations, history, and the local craft beer scene, with opportunities to taste various beers.
Speight Brewery Small Group Guided Tour From Dunedin
For those visiting Dunedin, the Speight Brewery Small Group Guided Tour offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of New Zealand’s iconic beer producers.
Located in central Dunedin, the tour has earned an impressive 93% recommendation from travelers, with a Badge of Excellence.
The 2.5-hour experience includes a guided tour of the brewery, an explanation of the brewing process, and a beer tasting.
Travelers can expect generous pours of Speight’s beer, with many noting the high quality. The knowledgeable guides bring the history and operations of the brewery to life through informative commentary and visual aids.
However, the tour does require a moderate level of fitness, as it involves walking and navigating stairs.
Plus, the minimum drinking age is 18 years, and closed-toe, flat-sole shoes are required.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: Speight Brewery Small Group Guided Tour From Dunedin Review
Book now: Check availability
Emersons Brewery Tour
The Emersons Brewery Tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of Dunedin’s renowned craft beer producers. Located on the Otago Peninsula, the tour provides an intimate experience with a maximum of 16 participants. For $24.31, guests can explore the brewery’s history, learn about the beer-making process, and enjoy a tasting tray to finish the tour.
The tour is led by knowledgeable staff, who share insights into the brewery’s daily operations. Wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation, the tour starts and ends at the same central Dunedin location.
While not recommended for pregnant travelers, the experience includes alcoholic beverages and a provided lunch or dinner.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting the engaging guides and enjoyable tastings, the Emersons Brewery Tour is a must-do activity for craft beer enthusiasts visiting Dunedin. Travelers can confirm their booking and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Emersons Brewery Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Brews and Views: A Private Tour of Dunedin’s Craft Beer Scene
Amidst the rolling hills of the Otago Peninsula, travelers can embark on a private tour to uncover Dunedin’s vibrant craft beer scene. Titled “Brews and Views: A Private Tour of Dunedin’s Craft Beer Scene,” this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s best breweries.
The tour begins at the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, where a professional local guide will greet participants. Over approximately 30 EUR per person, guests can expect to sample a variety of craft beers from Dunedin’s top producers.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is conveniently located near public transportation. The experience is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems.
With a price starting from $523.74, the tour can be booked with a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour guarantees the lowest price.
Read our full review: Brews and Views: A Private Tour of Dunedin’s Craft Beer Scene Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
What Are the Tour Duration and Schedule?
The tour duration and schedule vary across different providers, but most offer half-day or full-day tours with flexible scheduling to accommodate visitors’ preferences. Tour schedules are typically available on the companies’ websites or by contacting them directly.
Are Food and Snacks Provided During the Tours?
The tours typically provide a variety of food and snacks for participants. This can include cheese platters, appetizers, and other light refreshments to complement the drinking experiences. The specific offerings may vary between different tour providers.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most drinking tours have age restrictions, often requiring participants to be at least 18 or 21 years old. Tour operators strictly enforce these policies for the safety and legality of the experience.
Can the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Most drinking tour operators can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. They’ll work to provide alternative menu options or experiences that cater to guests’ needs. It’s best to inquire about specific dietary requirements when booking.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
Most tour companies offer flexible cancellation and refund policies, allowing customers to receive a full or partial refund if they need to cancel their booking. Policies may vary, so it’s best to check with the specific tour operator for their terms.
Worth The Stay
Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula offer a range of engaging drinking tours. Whether you’re interested in a guided tour of Speight’s Brewery, an Emersons Brewery experience, or a private exploration of the city’s craft beer scene, there are plenty of options to quench your thirst and learn about the local beverage culture. These tours provide an enjoyable and informative way to discover the region’s renowned brewing heritage.