News

In the early stages of its second year, the Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival is already set to have more breweries signed up than last year. In its latest media release, the event promises to be “bigger and better than anything Dunedin has seen before.”

“We’re absolutely stoked to have such a wide range of breweries, from start-ups to Kiwi classics, plus a Wellington contingent will add that cherry on the top of a great day!” said Dan Hendra, OUSA Events and Communications Manager. “It’s a chance for Dunedinites to meet and talk with brewers from their favourite breweries, and try beers that aren’t available in Dunedin.”

There will be a focus on Dunedin and Otago breweries, with Emerson’s, Green Man, Velvet Worm, and McDuff’s all attending the festival. The festival will also provide a platform for emerging breweries and will have Wanaka’s Maverick Craft Beer and Oamaru’s Craftwork Brewery in attendance, along with the possibility of one or two breweries that have not yet opened their doors.

Auckland’s Steam Brewery and Wellington breweries Funk Estate and Garage Project will be making the trip to Dunedin to attend the festival. The Nelson Tasman region will also be represented with Hop Federation making the journey to Dunedin as well. Hendra points out that the reason so many breweries are making the trip is because of the success last year. He says, “We’re lucky our last festival made waves to attract these breweries, and for us Garage Project is extra special as they have Otago University Alumni in their team.”

Along with Kiwi breweries, the festival has attracted New Zealand’s most well-known importer of North American Craft Beer, Beer Without Borders, who will be making the trip from Wellington “armed with fresh kegs of their latest imports.”
Hendra said, “It’s the first time Beer Without Borders have travelled this far south for a festival, and they’re here to make a good impression with the freshest and best range of international beer Dunedin will see this year.”

The festival is to be held at Forsyth Barr Stadium on 4 October from 12.00pm to 7.00pm.

OUSA did struggle to find a suitable date but 4 October was eventually decided on as a result of having to balance the academic dates of the semester, pushing the festival as close to summer as possible and holding it on a date available at the stadium. “It’s going to be a day with great food, great beers and a great time for Dunedin to have fun together!” said Hendra.

Tickets are on sale now from Ticket Direct across New Zealand.