Disappear to Dunedin

Welcome to Ōtepoti Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most scenic and historic cities.

The city and its surrounds are a unique mix of natural wonders, rare wildlife and stunning heritage attractions. Dunedin is where gothic architecture meets sweeping coastal landscapes, a  wonderful mix of offbeat urban charm and cinematic surrounds. Fall in love with the colours and unmistakable scent of  deciduous Dunedin. Just because nature slows down at this time of year,  doesn’t mean you have to with plenty of autumnal natural environments and cultural activities to experience.

Natural Wonders

Dunedin is the wildlife capital of New Zealand due to the amazing array of endangered species in close proximity to the city. The coastal terrain, secluded beaches and bush-clad hills are the  perfect habitat for all manner of creatures from sea lions and seals to penguins and albatross. More than thirty beaches in under 30 minutes’ drive. Dunedin’s many beaches are scattered along its  coastline and the Otago Harbour and are great for a swim, surf, or paddle. Speaking of surf, did you know Dunedin’s got a reputation for being a ‘cold water Bali’ for its plentiful surfing breaks.

Cultural Exploration

The award-winning Tūhura Otago Museum and Toitū Otago Settlers Museum tell the story of Dunedin’s past, present and future through highly interactive exhibits and an impressive collection of  local and international artefacts. At Otago Museum you can visit Tuhura interactive science centre and planetarium with over 45 hands-on exhibits for the young and young at heart. Toitū  offers an exciting exploration of Dunedin’s great, poignant, wild and inspiring past. You can experience conditions in ocean-going sailing ships and settler cottages, try on pioneer clothing, or  admire chrome laden vehicles and quirky appliances you’ll remember your grandmother using.

Gallery Hopping

Long famed for its creative community, Dunedin is home to galleries to fit all tastes. New on the scene is OLGA, presenting a programme of exciting, important art by New Zealand and  international artists. Nearby, Quadrant exhibits and sells contemporary New Zealand jewellery, sculpture and other 3D works by. The Artist’s Room is a busy space where artworks arrive in and  leave for their new walls almost every day. The Dunedin Public Art Gallery is the city’s crowning glory, with internationally recognised collections that reflect the generosity of patrons from the  city’s goldrush days to the present.

So take your time to discover the many hidden gems and experiences that await.