Last updated July 2026
At Speight’s Brewery in Dunedin, visitors explore the history and operations of New Zealand’s oldest continually operating brewery, founded in 1876. The site on Rattray Street remains the original location where James Speight, Charles Greenslade and William Dawson began production. Guided tours take guests through the working brewery and include tastings of flagship beers such as Speight’s Gold Medal Ale. The brewery continues to play a central role in Dunedin’s identity and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Practical Information
| Address | 200 Rattray Street, Dunedin Central, Dunedin 9016 |
| Founded | 1876 |
| Tour Duration | 45-minute brewery tour plus up to 30 minutes tasting |
| Tour Times | Monday–Thursday: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm; Friday–Saturday: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm; Sunday: 12pm, 2pm, 4pm |
| Age Requirement | 18+ for tastings (proof of age required); children welcome on tours with adult supervision |
| Bookings | Essential; book via official website |
| Wheelchair Access | Parts of the building are not suitable; contact in advance |
| Additional Facilities | Speight’s Ale House on site for meals; shop for merchandise |
About Speight’s Brewery
Speight’s Brewery occupies its original Rattray Street site in central Dunedin and has operated continuously since 1876. The three founders left Wellpark Brewery to establish their own operation, with the first brew completed on 4 April 1876. The brewery grew rapidly and became the largest in New Zealand by 1887, exporting to Australia and the Pacific.
The facility combines historic elements with modern brewing equipment. Tours highlight the production process, ingredients and the site’s evolution over 150 years. In 2014 the redeveloped brewery was officially opened by then Prime Minister John Key.
Speight’s remains a landmark of Dunedin and a symbol of southern brewing tradition. The brand produces a range of beers, with Gold Medal Ale as the flagship. Production continues at the Dunedin site even as additional capacity exists elsewhere in New Zealand.
Guided Tours and Visitor Experience
The award-winning brewery tour provides an interactive look at the working facility. Guides lead visitors from top to bottom, covering ingredients, history and the current production process. Participants can see, touch and smell the raw materials before a tasting session in the dedicated room.
Tastings feature 5oz samples of popular beers. Non-alcoholic options are available. Bookings are required and proof of age must be shown for the tasting portion. The adjacent Speight’s Ale House offers meals and a full range of beers on tap.
History and Milestones
Speight’s marked its 150th anniversary in 2026. Early milestones include gold medals at the 1880 Melbourne Exhibition, which gave Gold Medal Ale its name, and rapid expansion that made it New Zealand’s largest brewery by 1887. The company joined New Zealand Breweries in 1923 amid prohibition threats.
Later developments include sponsorship of local rugby from 1977, the introduction of new products such as Summit Lager, and ongoing community initiatives including support for Movember. The original site has seen multiple upgrades while retaining its historic character.
Products, Branding and Community Role
The brewery’s best-known beer is Speight’s Gold Medal Ale. The range also includes Summit Ultra, craft options and limited releases. Branding features the triple-star motif and founder signature on labels.
Speight’s has long supported Otago rugby and local events. It participates in health-awareness campaigns and community awards that celebrate mateship. The brewery contributes to Dunedin’s economy and cultural life as both a producer and a visitor destination.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the tour as informative and well-paced, with engaging guides who explain both history and modern brewing. Many appreciate the chance to sample several beers in the tasting session and note the historic atmosphere of the original buildings.
Reviewers frequently mention the convenience of combining the tour with a meal at the on-site Ale House. Families note that children are welcome on the tour itself, though tastings are restricted to adults.
Where to Learn More
Speight’s official website: Details on tours, bookings, history and current beer range.
Speight’s history page: Timeline of key milestones from 1876 to the present.
DunedinNZ tourism site: Visitor information and booking links for Speight’s Brewery tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the Speight’s Brewery tour?
The standard tour lasts 45 minutes followed by up to 30 minutes of tasting.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are essential and can be made through the official Speight’s website.
What is the minimum age for tastings?
Participants must be 18 or older and show proof of age for the tasting portion; children may join the tour with adult supervision.
Is the brewery wheelchair accessible?
Parts of the building are not suitable for wheelchairs; contact the brewery in advance to discuss options.
Can I dine at the brewery?
Yes, the Speight’s Ale House on site serves meals and offers the full range of Speight’s beers on tap.
Where is Speight’s Brewery located?
The brewery is at 200 Rattray Street in central Dunedin.
Does Speight’s still brew at the original site?
Yes, the Dunedin brewery on Rattray Street remains operational and is New Zealand’s oldest continually operating brewery.
Are there merchandise or souvenirs available?
Yes, a shop at the brewery sells Speight’s branded clothing and gifts.
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