About No.8 Distillery
No.8 Distillery in Ōtepoti Dunedin is a boutique craft distillery and tasting bar that revives Dunedin’s spirits-making legacy. Co-founded by Julien Delavoie (a fourth-generation distiller) and Michael Wilson, No.8 was the first commercial distillery to open in Dunedin since 1997 (www.no8distillery.com ). It specialises in small-batch gin, absinthe, rum and liqueurs made with locally foraged botanicals and organic ingredients. The distillery’s unique ethos – summed up by the slogan “Save the planet, drink No.8” – emphasises sustainability and innovation. For example, No.8 uses 100% NZ ingredients, compostable labels & bio-inks, and even recipes that repurpose waste (like a “Moka Gin” using cocoa husks and coffee cascara) (www.no8distillery.com ). The name “No.8” itself comes from the founders’ use of a No.8 wire cable during the first COVID lockdown to jury-rig their first still (www.no8distillery.com ). The heart of the venue is the gleaming copper still (affectionately named “Therese” and a newer one called “Jackie”) and the tasting bar, set in a stylish industrial-chic space. In 2022 No.8 earned a Qualmark Bronze accreditation, recognising its commitment to sustainable tourism and exceptional tour experiences (nzspiritguide.com ). These qualities – deep heritage, award-winning spirits and a creative hands-on approach – give No.8 Distillery a special place in Dunedin’s scene.
Events and Programming
No.8 Distillery runs a lively program of tastings, masterclasses and festival events. Throughout the year they host hands-on experiences ranging from rum or gin masterclasses and ‘Make Your Own Gin’ workshops, to cocktail-pairing evenings and DJ nights. In summer they have partnered with Otago Spirits Festival for events like the “Rhythm & Pour” cocktail and music night, featuring multiple DJs and signature No.8 cocktails (www.no8distillery.com ) (www.no8distillery.com ). They’ve also run a “Meet the Maker” series in conjunction with the Otago Farmers Market – for example talks and tastings about foraged herbs and local preserves (www.no8distillery.com ). Recent past events include intimate “Meet the Maker” workshops (e.g. Stonehurst Herbs in Nov ’23), a “TITI Restaurant x No.8 Distillery” chefs’ collaboration, and annual Rum Masterclasses in June (www.no8distillery.com ) (www.no8distillery.com ). Many events take place in the evenings or on weekends; the distillery has even hosted outdoor market-style gatherings with food trucks and live performers. Signature festivities include special tasting sessions of their own awarded spirits (many of which have won world-class awards) and seasonal celebrations when they unveil limited-edition bottles. Ticket prices vary with the event, but the in-house tasting tour itself is about NZ$35 per person (45 minutes) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Overall, No.8 offers a diverse mix of experiences – casual drop-in tastings at the bar, behind-the-scenes guided tours, expert-led spirit classes and one-off parties – that appeal to both locals and visitors interested in craft spirits and mixology.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for No.8 Distillery events and tours are usually sold online through the distillery’s official booking system or local event platforms. For the standard 45-minute tasting tour, bookings are made in advance (via the No.8 website or by email), especially since tours are small and often fill up (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.no8distillery.com ). The typical cost for that basic tasting experience is about NZ$35 each (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), which covers samples of five different spirits guided by the distiller. Special tastings and masterclasses (such as a rum or cocktails class) may cost more – often in the range of $40–$60 per person – and usually require prior registration. When tickets are released for popular events (for instance festival sessions or DJ nights), they tend to sell quickly, so it’s wise to buy early. There is no public box office on site; you simply show your e-ticket or reservation at the door. No.8 sometimes releases VIP packages for festival nights (with extras like a free drink or souvenir glass) (www.no8distillery.com ). As a rule, keep an eye on No.8’s event calendar or social media for announcements. Booking links or info (such as for the Otago Spirits Festival evening, which included food trucks and on-site bottle sales) were provided for their August DJ night event in 2024 (www.no8distillery.com ). In short: plan ahead online for tours and popular events, and arrive at least a few minutes early to check in.
Seating and Layout
No.8 Distillery’s tasting venue on Bond Street is an open, informal space rather than a seated theatre. The main area centers on a bar counter where the spirits are served and explained. Around the bar there are stools and a few high tables, but many tastings or events are conducted standing or moving around. The brand-new production still (“Jackie”) and fermentation tanks are visible behind a window, creating a factory-chic backdrop. During tours you might gather around the distiller’s bench to watch the process step by step. Events like DJ nights or cocktail evenings use the ground floor as a general-admission lounge/dance area. There is no traditional reserved seating or large amphitheatre section – most visitors mingle freely with their drinks. If you prefer to sit, the best seats are usually those near the centre bar or at one of the communal tables, which offer a clear view of the distiller and equipment. Since the tasting room can get busy, the front bar area is often most lively. (Acoustics are generally fine for conversation. The space isn’t a sound-proof club, but it’s designed for social tasting events rather than televised concerts.) In short, think of No.8 not as a formal theatre but as a cool industrial bar: standing-room friendly with a few stools, and the copper stills as part of the décor.
Getting There and Parking
No.8 Distillery is located at 90 Bond Street, Dunedin 9016 (www.no8distillery.com ). This is in central Dunedin, just off Moray Place and a short stroll from the Octagon (the city’s main square). Dunedin’s bus network (Orbus) serves the city centre – routes running along Moray Place, Princes Street and Lower Stuart Street will get you within a block or two of Bond Street. Specifically, buses heading down Stuart or Princes can drop you on Moray or lower Princes, from which it’s a few hundred metres’ walk. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola, etc.) and taxis are also plentiful in central Dunedin – Bond Street has convenient pull-in spots for drop-off and pick-up. 101 Great King Street (about a 5-minute walk south of No.8). That car park charges from roughly NZ$2.50 per hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ) on weekends (rates may vary by day). Other nearby options include the Wilson lot next to Dunedin Hospital or evening parking in the FIzzgerald Avenue carpark (7–10 mins walk away). For cyclists, there’s bike parking on the street. Overall, public transit or rideshare is often easiest for visitors; if driving, arrive early to find a spot or use one of the nearby paid car parks.
Inside the Venue
When you enter No.8 Distillery, you’ll step into a cozy cellar-door style bar and retail space. Check-in is usually at the main counter; we recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early for your tour or event. For security and legal reasons, a valid photo ID is required if you’re participating in any spirits tasting or cocktail event (app.advcollective.com ) – so have your ID ready upon entry. The centerpiece of the room is a long wooden bar where tastings are poured. Behind the bar you’ll see racks of No.8 bottles and the copper still visible through glass. On busy evenings, the lighting is atmospheric (dim with accent lights on the stills) but never pitch black – you can comfortably read labels and talk. The walls are often decorated with liquor-related art or chalkboard menus of the day’s offerings. www.no8distillery.com ). Light bar snacks (nuts, crisps) may be provided, but there’s no full kitchen or hot menu. During special events like the Otago Spirits Festival DJ night, external food trucks were brought in on-site (www.no8distillery.com ). All guests can buy No.8 bottles directly from the retail section; in fact, bottles of spirits are kept chilled and available at the bar – perfect for taking home your favorite. The team also sells branded merchandise (glasses, shirts) at the counter.
Nearby Amenities
No.8 Distillery’s Bond Street location puts it within easy reach of Dunedin’s city-center amenities. For pre-event dining or drinks, Melbourne-like cafés and bars line nearby George Street and Moray Place. Just a block over is the Good Earth Café (vegetarian-friendly) or Rozey Café for gourmet coffees. If you have more time, Swanndri Café on Moray Place and the flagship Vogel St. Kitchen (New Zealand cuisine) are both excellent (booking advised). For a quick bite, the Octagon area (5 mins walk) has endless options: try Ramen Shop, Das Stash for Mexican, or Eva Beer & Wine for casual pub fare. After the event, late-night eats are available at local 24-hour dairies or at the Octagon’s late-night burger stands. www.distinctionhotelsdunedin.co.nz ). Other lodging options in the Octagon include the Cordis Hotel and Airbnbs downtown. Transport options late at night include nearby taxi stands on Bond/Princes or rideshares (pick-up easily from the street). If you arrive early, plan to spend 20–30 minutes exploring Dunedin’s town belt or waterfront (the gardens and harbor are close by). Overall, Bond Street’s central location means there’s no shortage of cafés, gastropubs and hotels within a 5–10 minute walk of No.8 Distillery.
What Makes This Venue Special
No.8 Distillery stands out for its blend of old-world craft and modern creativity. It was built from the ground up by passionate local entrepreneurs, using 4th-generation distilling knowledge (www.no8distillery.com ), at a time when Dunedin had no operating distillery (the previous one had shut in 1997) (www.no8distillery.com ). That pioneering spirit is evident everywhere: from the industrial-chic décor with its gleaming stills to the inventiveness of its spirits (for example, the intensely aromatic Horopito Gin and delicate Hibiscus Gin). The distillery prides itself on using foraged native plants – such as kawakawa and horopito leaves – giving each spirit a true local flavor. This regional character is a draw for tourists and locals alike. The owner Julien, with roots in a Normandy distilling family, crafted each recipe (including a full-fledged absinthe) to showcase New Zealand botanicals, and often shares these stories on tours. www.no8distillery.com ) (www.distinctionhotelsdunedin.co.nz ). Architecturally it’s a heritage-adjoining space (recently renovated), and aesthetically unique – the polished copper and timber interior is a draw in itself. Perhaps the biggest compliment from visitors is that it feels more like hanging out with mates over cocktails than experiencing a dry tour. In summary, No.8 Distillery is cherished for its authentic story, its award-winning, locally-inspired spirits, and its warm, knowledgeable service – qualities that both artists and patrons find genuinely endearing.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Bond St venue is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible with ramp access and level entry (app.advcollective.com ). The tasting area is on the ground floor, and there is an accessible restroom. Tours are gentle and require no climbing or strenuous activity (app.advcollective.com ). ID and Age: You must be 18+ to take any tasting tour or sample alcohol, and NZ law requires valid photo ID (passport or driver licence) for check-in (app.advcollective.com ). Guests under 18 can tour the facility (outside of tasting time) but cannot sample spirits. What to Bring: Always carry your ID and a little cash or eftpos card. Wear comfortable shoes and warm layers – the distillery is inside an industrial building, which can be cool and involves standing and walking around (app.advcollective.com ). Bringing a water bottle is a good idea, especially if you plan to sample. Tickets: Tours and classes must be booked in advance (see above). If you’ve bought an event ticket, arrive at least 10 minutes early. The tour is typically led by the owner/distiller himself, and visitors often praise how personal and thorough it is (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Timing: Plan to spend about 45–60 minutes if you’re doing the basic tasting tour. If you also want to browse and buy bottles or relax at the bar, add extra time. Weekday tours usually start in the afternoon; weekend event doors often open in the early evening. Photography: Feel free to take photos of the space and stills. Flash photography is something to use judiciously if other guests are tasting. Drinks: Samples can be strong, so pace yourself – a small tasting shot of absinthe is potent! Don’t expect full mixed cocktails on regular tours (those are for special events), but do ask the bar staff for a half-pour if you’d like more than a taste. Tipping: Tipping isn’t customary in NZ, but smaller operations like No.8 rely on good reviews and word of mouth – leaving a positive review or telling friends about a great experience goes a long way. Mistakes to avoid: The most common things we see are visitors forgetting ID, or being underdresssed for the brewery vibe (it’s casual, but remember you might walk on concrete floors and stand for part of the tour). Also, don’t expect a quiet library – it’s a lively bar environment, so come expecting to chat and ask questions. Insider tip: Ask about the refill programme – No.8 encourages you to bring back Spirit bottles for a discount refilling, so you can keep enjoying your favorites while reducing waste (www.no8distillery.com ). Visitors also love learning about the stills—feel free to touch the copper (when safe) and ask the distiller about the multi-pipe apparatus. Lastly, if you’re lucky to visit on a Saturday morning, check out the neighbouring farmers market (Hanover St) where No.8 often has a stall – you can sample mini-tastings on that day. These little things turn a routine visit into a truly local, special experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is No.8 Distillery located?
No.8 Distillery’s address is 90 Bond Street, Dunedin 9016 (www.no8distillery.com ). This puts it in central Dunedin near the corner of Moray Place and Bond Streets. It’s only a few minutes’ walk north of the Octagon (Dunedin’s city centre). If using GPS or maps, search for “No.8 Distillery Dunedin” or just “90 Bond St”.
What are No.8 Distillery’s hours of operation?
Hours can vary, so it’s best to check the latest schedule on their site or social media. Generally the distillery is open Wednesday to Friday during the day and early evening, plus Saturday afternoons. For example, past schedules show hours around 10am–6pm on weekdays and 1pm–8pm on Saturdays. (They are usually closed Sunday–Tuesday.)
How do I book a tour or tasting?
Tour and tasting bookings are made online or by contacting No.8 Distillery directly. The distillery’s website has an online booking link, and you can also email or call them to arrange a tour. It’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance, as slots are limited (www.no8distillery.com ). Walk-ins might be available on slow days, but for the standard guided tasting you should reserve online first.
How much does the distillery tasting cost?
The regular tasting tour (about 45 minutes) is roughly NZ$35 per person (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). This includes sampling of five different No.8 spirits. Prices for special masterclasses or private events are higher (often $40–$60). For parties or corporate bookings, fixed-price group tours can be arranged. Always confirm the current price when you book, since fees can change year to year. (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )
Are children or teens allowed?
No.8 Distillery does not permit anyone under 18 to taste or even handle alcohol. All drink samplings and tours are restricted to those 18+. If you bring a minor, they are welcome to tour (looking, learning about foraging, etc.) but they cannot sample spirits. Because of this, photo ID is required from every adult to prove age (app.advcollective.com ).
Where can I buy No.8 spirits and merchandise?
The distillery has an on-site cellar door and gift shop. You can purchase all of No.8’s spirits (gin, vodka, rum, absinthe, liqueurs) by the bottle in the bar area (www.distinctionhotelsdunedin.co.nz ). They also sell branded merchandise like glasses and T-shirts. During events like their spirits festival nights, full-size bottles were available at a pop-up counter (www.no8distillery.com ). Note: No.8 encourages customers to return bottles for refills or swaps at a discount as part of their sustainability program (www.no8distillery.com ).
Is No.8 Distillery wheelchair/stroller accessible?
Yes. The tasting/facility area is on ground level and is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers (app.advcollective.com ). There are no stairs to enter the bar area, and the interior floor is flat. The tour is described as easy with “no physical exertion required” (app.advcollective.com ). Restrooms are accessible as well. The staff can assist guests with mobility needs if necessary.
Is there parking at No.8 Distillery?
Street parking is available on Bond Street and nearby roads (metered zones). If you need longer-term parking, the closest large car park is Wilson Parking at 101 Great King Street (about a 5-minute walk away), which charges roughly NZ$2.50 per hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Other downtown carparks (Lower Stuart or Fitzgerald Ave) are a short walk too. Many visitors prefer to use city buses or ride-shares rather than hunting for a parking space.
What public transport options are near No.8 Distillery?
Dunedin’s Orbus buses serve stops on Moray Place, Stuart Street and Princes Street, all within a 2–5 minute walk of Bond Street. For example, buses on routes 4, 7 or 10 (city loop routes) stop nearby. The city’s main bus hub is also just around the corner at Moray Place/Eastern when coming by outer routes. Rideshare (Uber/Ola) and local taxis can drop you right on Bond Street. Taxis cruises often stand by at Bond/Princes if you need a lift home late.
Is photography allowed inside?
Yes – amateur photography is welcome. You’re invited to take pictures of the stills, tasting setups, and cocktail creations. Just be considerate of other guests when using flash. (Professional photography or filming should be arranged with permission in advance.)
Must I bring any special items with me?
Bring a valid photo ID for age verification – it’s mandatory (app.advcollective.com ). Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, since you’ll be standing and ambient indoor temperatures can feel cool. Layers are a good idea. It’s also smart to have a water bottle on hand (water is usually provided to rinse your palate between tastings). Other than those, just bring your curiosity!
Why is it called “No.8” Distillery?
The founders named it “No.8” as a nod to their ingenuity during the early days. During the first lockdown, they used a length of No.8 copper cable to jury-rig their initial distillation setup (www.no8distillery.com ). The name stuck and has become a quirky trademark for the brand.
Who runs the distillery tours?
Tastings and tours at No.8 are typically conducted by the owner and head distiller, Julien Delavoie, or by knowledgeable staff trained by him. Reviews note that the tour is very thorough and personal when led by Julien himself (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). You’ll learn about the family recipes and use of native botanicals directly from the maker.
Can I get something to eat at No.8?
No.8 does not have a full dining kitchen, but light snacks (nuts, crisps) are often available during tastings. The bar focuses on cocktails and spirits rather than meals. During special events (like the August spirits festival session) food trucks parked outside provided snacks and meals (www.no8distillery.com ). Otherwise, plan to eat at a nearby café or restaurant before coming (the Octagon area is only a few minutes' walk away).
What types of spirits can I taste at No.8?
No.8 Distillery produces a range of artisan spirits. Their core offerings include several gins (notably the award-winning Horopito and a Hibiscus gin), a French-style absinthe, a vodka (made from foraged botanicals), fruit liqueurs and rums. They emphasise unique local ingredients, so tastings often highlight native horopito leaf, tawhiri (rosehip), and other botanicals. According to the hotel and tour descriptions, you will sample gins, absinthe and liqueurs crafted with locally foraged herbs in the standard tour (www.distinctionhotelsdunedin.co.nz ).
Is the distillery crowded? Should I arrive early?
No.8 Distillery is relatively small, so it can get busy. For booked tours, you don’t need to line up early (they manage your spot). For walk-in events or busy weekends, arriving 5–10 minutes early ensures you get settled. The venue is casual but has limited seating, so arriving a little ahead can help you choose a good spot at the bar or table.
