Dunedin
Edinburgh of the South
Ōtepoti Dunedin is a region of unique and beautiful landscapes, wildlife and fascinating cultural history. Known as the Wildlife Capital of New Zealand, Dunedin prides itself on its beautiful built heritage, stunning scenery, and unique biodiversity. Surrounded by dramatic hills and at the foot of a long, picturesque harbour, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere.
Who needs Europe when you can check out similarly grand architecture and history in Ōtepoti Dunedin. Enjoy a sumptuous high tea in Larnach Castle ballroom or gardens, take a tour of Olveston Historic Home which boasts an incredible collection of art and antiques from around the globe or simply stroll the downtown streets admiring other heritage highlights such as the ornate Dunedin Railway Station. Find out about Māori pā life, sieges, and plights of star-crossed lovers while on the spectacular Huriawa Peninsula walkway.
Head off on safari, Dunedin-style. Otago Peninsula is an exceptional area of biodiversity where rare, yellow-eyed penguins’ nest on the far reaches and Hooker sealions loll about on beaches. Witness the majestic Northern Royal Albatross at the world’s only mainland breeding colony. Watch in awe as adorable little blue penguins come in from a day of fishing or take a more adventurous approach with a 4WD Argo tour.
The clear Otago Peninsula heavens unfold before you when Horizon Tours weave a magical experience, sharing Māori tales of the celestial bodies and waiata under the stars, as you sit in snugly wrapped in blankets. If you prefer indoor stargazing, then the 360-degree Perpetual Guardian Planetarium at the Otago Museum has you covered. Take night-time thrills further on a Hair Raiser Tour, tapping into Dunedin’s ghostly history.
Want museums and cultural colour? The award-winning Otago Museum displays collections of local and international artefacts and exhibitions, alongside its Tuhura interactive science centre tropical butterfly forest and double helix slide.
Dunedin may be a small city, but it has a huge and deliciously eclectic range of eateries, quirky cafes and bars and sophisticated restaurants. Chefs draw upon locally sourced produce, including fresh ocean and pasture ingredients. Bask at the sea-side cafes in St Clair or the hilltop enclave of Roslyn. Wander the Warehouse Precinct to find funky establishments with awesome coffee, then people watch al fresco in the Octagon cafés.
Increasing numbers of craft breweries, from the historic Speights to the Noisy newcomers, invite you to savour their latest batches. The Otago Farmers Market is where foodies gather for their weekly treats from local artisan producers.
Ōtepoti Dunedin makes it easy to stretch those limbs while satisfying those sightseeing urges. Go hard or cruise along on the Otago Harbour cycleway by bike or on foot. If a flat pathway isn’t your speed, take yourselves up Baldwin Street – the steepest street in the world. If you pass on wave swimming at one of Dunedin’s many pristine beaches, then relax in a 280C alternative – the outdoor splendour of St Clair Hot Water Pool. Discover some of the country’s best mountain biking or take strolls in the hills on some of the many quality tracks.
Dunedin offers much to stir the senses so take the time to discover the hidden Dunedin.
