Speight’s marks 150 years

Speight’s New Zealand is marking its 150th anniversary with a commemorative can release and celebrations in its hometown of Dunedin.

Founded by James Speight, Charles Greenslade and William Dawson in 1876, Speight’s began as a small brewery on Dunedin’s Rattray Street, where it still operates today.

Parent company Lion says that Speight’s now sells 1 million litres every week, with Nielsen data showing that it accounts for around 1 in 5 beers sold in New Zealand (Nielsen scan MAT April 2026).

LION Chief Operating Officer and New Zealand Country Director, Craig Baldie, says the anniversary reflects a brand that has continually moved with the times.

“Speight’s is New Zealand’s oldest brewery and is still operating at its original Rattray Street site in Dunedin. Over the past 150 years, the brand has continued to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences while remaining true to what people know and trust about Speight’s. That authenticity which is anchored in its southern values has enabled the brand to connect with New Zealanders over generations,” says Baldie.

Speight’s Brewery in 1889.

Lion points to the 2017 launch of Speight’s Summit Ultra as a key moment in the brand’s history. It has since become the top-selling beer in New Zealand, helping Speight’s become the biggest beer brand in the country in 2022.

“Summit Ultra has been instrumental in reshaping the brand’s trajectory and has played a significant role in its recent growth,” adds Baldie.

To mark its 150th anniversary, Speight’s has released a commemorative can available nationwide. In recognition of its Dunedin roots, Speight’s is also releasing a limited-edition Whisky Collection based at the Dunedin brewery and a Gold Medal Hokey Pokey ice cream collaboration with Patti's & Cream.

“This anniversary is an opportunity to acknowledge the role Speight’s has played in New Zealand’s history, as well as the people who have contributed to its success over the years. It’s also an exciting moment to celebrate Speight’s legacy and look ahead, with confidence in the brand’s continued growth,” says Baldie.